UC Logic Artisul D13 Tablet Review

What is the best cheap alternative to the Wacom Cintiq 13HD? This is a question that gets asked a lot. And yes, there are some decent alternatives out there that are cheaper to buy. However, the savings that you do make from buying a cheaper model do come at a cost. And in most cases you will have to sacrifice on features, screen quality, and even overall build quality. Thankfully, there are exceptions. The good news is, you've found one. The Artisul D13 is a dark horse in the world of graphics tablets. It roams quietly under the radar when it comes to the popular, more mainstream models. But, if there ever was a model that was cheaper to buy than the Wacom Cintiq 13HD but could match, and even beat it in certain areas, it is definitely the Artisul D13.

The excellent UC Logic Artisul D13S

The build quality is superb. It's slim but sturdy, and the screen quality, @1080P (IPS) is excellent! It can be powered by the USB and HDMI cables alone. The D13 does not need to be plugged into the mains. This is an amazing feature that makes it much more portable, like a graphics tablet should be, and much easier to work with on the move. Of course, you will still need a laptop to use this device when travelling or using it where a mains plug is unavailable. It needs something to plug into after all.
Please note: Just in case you were getting worried for a second, It does also work just fine with a normal desktop PC too. And while it doesn't need to be plugged in via AC adapter to work, UC Logic have made sure it still comes with a plug-in adapter included.

UC Logic Artisul D13 Graphics Tablet Specification

• Full HD 13.3 Inch LCD backlight display

• 16:9 aspect ratio; display area 11.5 Inch x 6.5 Inch high-resolution 1920 x 1080 IPS (In-plane switching)

• 6 hot express keys

• 1 scroll wheel "Dial" button (Customizable/programmable)

• Compatible with Apple Mac and Windows Operating Systems; Connects to Desktops or laptops by USB and HDMI cables

• Electromagnetic Stylus Pen with 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity and 2 side buttons (Customizable/programmable).

• Pen carrying case with 10 spare pen tips and a built-in pen tip remover and anti-slip stand

Check out the very informative video review below of this model from Tommy Oliver over at Rebel Pixels, where he gives us a run through of the good points and a few areas where he feels improvements could be made to the Artisul D13. It would be great if the manufacturers could consider including them on a future upgrade.

One thing worth bearing in mind though is the D13 is still quite expensive. There is not really that much difference in price between this and the Wacom Cintiq 13HD. Update: Actually, the Artisul D13S has been lowered in price, and its now being sold at an incredible discount. Take a look here. Buy one while you can.

What's funny, or a bit disappointing to be honest, is that reviews on Amazon, and a few of the other popular online outlets are none existent! It looks like this model isn't as popular as it should be here in the UK. You don't know what you're missing out on! Maybe its the price, or perhaps the marketing. I don't know. But this really is one worth taking the risk on. Looking for something cheap and simple to work as an introductory, dip-your-feet into the world of digital drawing? Take a look at the Huion 1060 Plus.