Wacom Intuos5 touch Medium Tablet Review

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by Jen McPherson on August 20, 2012 in Peripherals

Wacom has long been considered by many to be the go-to brand for PC tablets, and it’s been for good reason. With its recently-launched Intuos5 touch, the company proved us wrong – our favorite tablet could in fact get better. With this latest release, the company cashes in on the touch craze, and after our testing, we’re glad it did.

Page 3 – Final Thoughts

Initially, I wasn’t sure that the Intuos4 could be improved upon, but with the Intuos5 Wacom has once again proven me wrong. The board feels better, the express keys are improved, and the touch features are fantastic. There are some areas I feel it could have been just a little better, such as the active area being smoother, but these are minor nuisances. I’ve had the pleasure of working with both the Intuos3 and 4 prior, but I find I enjoy working with the Intuos5 more.

I cannot say that if you own an Intuos4 you should go out and immediately replace it with the Intuos5, especially since there is no improvement in pen pressure sensitivity, accuracy, or tablet resolution. The Intuos5 is only slightly lighter than the Intuos4, weighing 2.18 lbs.

However, the Intuos5 does have a better feel and offers more functionality. The express keys are better placed and easier to press, and the touch features alone give this tablet more functionality that could lead users to utilize it for more than just creative purposes. Also, the wireless add on makes this tablet a real gem. With the added software bundle the Intuos5 is a complete package deal that is more than worth the cost.


(Live-streaming the creation of Isandriel with the Intuos5)

Overall, I am quite impressed with the Intuos5 Touch, and if you are in the market for a tablet that goes a step beyond what’s been offered before, I assure you it will not disappoint.

The Intuos5 Touch currently is available in three sizes, small, medium, and large. The Intuos5 Touch medium reviewed today is available for $349.00 via Wacom’s website.

Pros

  • Touch features.
  • Smooth, non-glossy surface.
  • Better-positioned, wider express keys.
  • Add-on wireless capabilities.
  • Software Bundle.
  • Easy to clean.

Cons

  • No improved pen pressure, accuracy, or tablet resolution.
  • No mouse.
  • Pen nibs are hard and wear quickly.

Wacom Intuos5 touch Tablet
Wacom Intuos5 touch Tablet

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