I’ve tried pen tablets twice before, both times left me wondering why anyone other then the most hardcore artists use it, but Wacom’s new Graphire4 got it right this time. The Graphire is the low priced product line for Wacom, but I think it’s perfect for most computer users out there. I say computer instead of Mac because it works with both the PC and Mac. Let’s look at some of the reasons I’ve switched over to the Graphire4 permanently.

First let’s look at the specs. I am using the 6×8 inch tablet which runs about $199 retail. The smaller sized 4×5 costs only $99 and is a great starting point for the average computer user. Wacom also produces a 6×8 inch Bluetooth model, but I’m using the USB model. The tablet comes in white, silver, or metallic blue to go with any hardware you have. When you purchase the tablet you receive the Graphire4 6×8 pen tablet, pen, pen stand, and mouse. Also you’ll get 2 CDs with Wacom tablet driver software, user manual, and bundled software. The software for the Mac is a little less then for the PC, but the reason is that the Graphire4 takes advantage of the Ink technology in OSX so it works with a ton of Mac software. Here’s the software you’ll get, Adobe Photoshop Elements 3 - Windows 2000, XP, or Mac OS X 10.2.8+, Corel Painter Essentials 2 - Windows 2000, XP, or Mac OS X 10.2.8+, nik Color Efex Pro 2 GE - Windows 98SE, 2000, Me, XP, or Mac OS X 10.2.8+, Adobe Photoshop Elements 3, Evernote Plus - Windows 2000 or XP, and Justwrite Office 4 - Windows 98SE, 2000, Me, or XP. That’s a nice bundle for either platform.

I love the new design. All you do is plug the tablet into a USB port and the pen and mouse work without wires or batteries. The mouse and the pen are so much more accurate then they were a few years ago. In fact, I think the mouse is one of the best cordless ones I’ve ever used. The clear plastic cover over the tablet protects it and makes using the pen and mouse a smooth operation. Plus, you can change the photo under the plastic cover and create your own unique looking tablet. The driver software that comes with the Graphire4 allows you to change every button and setting for the pen and mouse and I was surprised to find that Wacom added two buttons and scroll wheel to the top of the tablet that are also adjustable.

I just cannot tell you how delighted I am using the Graphire4. It expands what I can do with my Mac and it adds so much functionality to software programs I owned already that used the Ink Technology. If you are looking for an alternative to your mouse, or if you want more out of your mouse then just point and click, get a Graphire4 pen tablet from Wacom. I have no doubt you’ll love it.

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