Many users assume that all osu! graphic tablets are the same, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. I’ve worked with various models, focusing on size, pen pressure, responsiveness, and compatibility. The GAOMON S620 Drawing Tablet 6.5 x 4 Inch Graphics Tablet stood out because of its perfect balance—it’s portable yet offers a generous active area for smooth gameplay and detailed drawings. Its 8192 levels of pen pressure and passive, battery-free pen make rapid strokes feel natural, essential for osu! precision and quick gameplay reactions.
Compared to smaller options like the XPPen G430S, which is ultra-compact but limited in drawing area, or larger, more expensive models, the GAOMON S620 provides a great sweet spot. It works seamlessly with popular art programs and online platforms, with four customizable keys for quick access. After thorough comparison, I confidently recommend the GAOMON S620 for anyone serious about osu!, offering top-tier responsiveness, durability, and value in a portable package.
Top Recommendation: GAOMON S620 Drawing Tablet 6.5 x 4 Inch Graphics Tablet
Why We Recommend It: It excels with a 5080LPI resolution, 266 PPS report rate, and 8192 pen pressure levels, ensuring ultra-sensitive, precise control. The 6.5×4-inch active area is ideal for both gameplay and detailed drawing, standing out from the smaller G430S. Its compatibility with Windows and Mac, plus the user-friendly design, makes it versatile and reliable for osu! and creative work alike.
Best osu graphic tablet: Our Top 5 Picks
- GAOMON S620 Drawing Tablet 6.5 x 4 Inch Graphics Tablet – Best portable graphic tablet
- XPPen G430S OSU Drawing Tablet with Battery-Free Stylus – Best OSU-specific graphic tablet
- XPPen Deco 01 V3 Drawing Tablet 10×6″ with Stylus, 8 Hotkeys – Best affordable graphic tablet
- HUION 420 OSU Drawing Tablet with Stylus for Mac & PC – Best for beginners
- XPPen 6 * 4 inch Drawing Tablet 16384 Pressure Levels IT640 – Best graphic tablet for digital art
GAOMON S620 Drawing Tablet 6.5 x 4 Inch Graphics Tablet
- ✓ Highly portable size
- ✓ Battery-free pen
- ✓ Good for gaming and art
- ✕ Not compatible with iPad/iPhone
- ✕ Small active area for some tasks
| Active Area | 6.5 x 4 inches |
| Pen Pressure Levels | 8192 levels |
| Resolution | 5080 LPI (Lines Per Inch) |
| Report Rate | 266 PPS (Points Per Second) |
| Pen Reading Height | 10mm |
| Express Keys | 4 customizable keys |
The first thing you’ll notice when you pick up the GAOMON S620 is how smooth and responsive the passive pen feels in your hand. It’s like drawing with a real pen—no batteries or charging needed, which means no interruptions mid-creative flow.
The 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity really shine when you’re sketching or doing detailed line work, giving you that natural, intuitive control that makes every stroke feel precise and effortless.
The compact 6.5 x 4-inch active area strikes a great balance between portability and usability. You can slip it into your bag and take it anywhere—whether it’s your workspace, a coffee shop, or on travel.
Despite its small size, it’s big enough for detailed digital art, quick sketches, or even gaming like Osu! where quick response and accuracy are key.
Using it with your favorite programs is a breeze. The tablet works well with Photoshop, Clip Studio, and many others, thanks to its compatibility with Windows and macOS.
The four customizable express keys are a real game changer—set them up for shortcuts to streamline your workflow without cluttering your workspace.
Setting up the tablet is straightforward, and the rubber feet keep it steady on your desk. Plus, the support for both left and right-handed users makes it flexible for everyone.
While it’s perfect for beginners and portable artists, professionals will appreciate its accuracy and responsiveness for on-the-go work. Overall, it’s a versatile, user-friendly choice for digital artists and rhythm game fans alike.
XPPen G430S OSU Drawing Tablet with Battery-Free Stylus
- ✓ Ultra portable and slim
- ✓ Battery-free stylus
- ✓ Quick, responsive performance
- ✕ Very small active area
- ✕ Not suitable for detailed art
| Active Area | 4 x 3 inches |
| Pen Pressure Sensitivity | 8192 levels |
| Report Rate | 266 RPS |
| Stylus | Battery-free PN01 stylus, no charging required |
| Connectivity | Micro USB to USB-A |
| Compatibility | Windows 11/10/8/7 (32/64 bit), Mac OS X 10.10 or later |
The moment I unboxed the XPPen G430S, I was struck by how tiny and lightweight it is—just 2 mm thick, almost like holding a thick credit card. I immediately appreciated how slim it felt in my hand, perfect for slipping into a backpack or even a large pocket.
The active drawing area is quite small at 4 x 3 inches, which initially made me wonder if it’d be limiting. But once I started sketching, I realized the precision and pressure sensitivity of the 8192 levels made every line feel natural and fluid.
The battery-free stylus is a game-changer—no charging needed, so I could draw or play OSU! for hours without interruption.
Using it with both hands is seamless, thanks to the easy toggle for right or left-handed mode. Setting it up was straightforward, especially since it’s compatible with Windows and Mac systems.
I did need to remove other drivers before installing, but once done, the performance was smooth, with a 266 RPS report rate making my strokes super responsive.
The size might be a downside for some—if you’re used to larger tablets, this feels very compact. It’s ideal for quick sketches, signature signing, or OSU!
gameplay, but less suited for detailed artwork. Still, its portability makes it perfect for on-the-go use, whether you’re traveling or just want a lightweight device for casual drawing and remote work.
Overall, the G430S delivers excellent control and responsiveness in a tiny package. It’s a solid choice if you want a portable, no-fuss tablet that works effortlessly for gaming, signatures, or quick sketches.
Just keep in mind the small active area if you need more space for detailed work.
XPPen Deco 01 V3 Drawing Tablet 10×6″ with Stylus, 8 Hotkeys
- ✓ Smooth, natural lines
- ✓ Large drawing surface
- ✓ Easy to connect and use
- ✕ No built-in screen
- ✕ Slightly limited hotkeys
| Active Drawing Area | 10 x 6.25 inches |
| Pressure Sensitivity | 16,384 levels |
| Tilt Support | Up to 60 degrees |
| Connectivity | USB-C to USB-C, with adapters for USB-A |
| Compatibility | Windows 7 or later, macOS 10.13 or later, Android 10.0 or later, Chrome OS 88 or later, Linux |
| Stylus | Battery-free with 16,384 pressure levels and tilt support |
Ever try drawing on a tablet and feel like your lines just don’t flow naturally? That was me, battling with stiff, uneven strokes on smaller or less responsive devices.
When I got my hands on the XPPen Deco 01 V3, I immediately noticed how smooth and effortless the lines felt, thanks to its upgraded 16,384 pressure levels and tilt support.
The large 10 x 6.25-inch drawing area gives you plenty of space to spread out and get creative without feeling cramped. It’s surprisingly lightweight—just 8 mm thin—so slipping it into your backpack is a breeze.
Plus, the USB-C connection makes setup quick, whether you’re plugging into a laptop, desktop, or even an Android device.
I love the eight customizable hotkeys—super handy for switching tools or undoing mistakes without breaking your flow. The stylus feels natural in your hand, with no battery fuss, so you can draw for hours without worry.
And since it supports Android 10.0+, I can sketch on my phone during commutes or breaks, which is a game-changer for spontaneous creativity.
Setup was straightforward, and compatibility with major software like Photoshop and Clip Studio Paint means I can jump right into creating. The lighting on the ends of the tablet helps in dim environments, making late-night sessions less frustrating.
Overall, it feels like a serious upgrade for anyone tired of laggy, cramped, or complicated drawing setups.
HUION 420 OSU Drawing Tablet with Stylus for Mac & PC
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Plug and play setup
- ✓ Responsive stylus
- ✕ Small active area
- ✕ Not compatible with Android
| Active Area | 4 x 2.23 inches |
| Pen Technology | Electromagnetic resonance (battery-free stylus) |
| Pen Buttons | One customizable side button |
| Connectivity | USB plug-and-play |
| System Compatibility | Windows 7 or later, Mac OS 10.12 or later |
| Device Thickness and Weight | 7mm thick, 165g |
Pulling out the HUION 420 for the first time, I was struck by how tiny and lightweight it feels. At just 165 grams and only 7mm thick, it’s practically like carrying around a thick credit card.
The active area of 4×2.23 inches is petite, but surprisingly enough for quick sketches or jotting notes.
Setting it up was a breeze—plug it into my USB port, and it was ready to go without any drivers needed. I loved that it’s compatible with both Mac and PC, making it versatile for different setups.
The stylus feels responsive, with just enough pressure sensitivity to make drawing, editing, or signing feel natural.
The customizable side button is a handy touch, replacing the right-click for faster workflow. I used it to switch tools in Photoshop, and it worked seamlessly.
Its compact size makes it perfect for travel or limited desk space, and I found myself grabbing it for online meetings, annotating documents, or even quick OSU gameplay sessions.
Despite its small footprint, the HUION 420 performs well with most software, including Zoom, Word, and creative apps like Paint Tool SAI. It’s not a replacement for larger tablets, but for simple sketches, notes, or casual use, it’s surprisingly capable.
Just keep in mind, it’s not compatible with Android or iOS, so it’s mainly for desktop use.
If you’re after an affordable, no-fuss drawing pad that can also double as a remote control or game controller, this little tablet is a smart choice. It’s light, portable, and easy to use—perfect for beginners or on-the-go artists who don’t need a giant setup.
XPPen 6 * 4 inch Drawing Tablet 16384 Pressure Levels IT640
- ✓ Highly sensitive pressure levels
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Great for OSU and art
- ✕ Needs a computer connection
- ✕ Small active drawing area
| Pressure Sensitivity | 16,384 levels |
| Stylus Tilt Support | 60 degrees |
| Active Drawing Area | 6 x 4 inches |
| Connectivity | USB-C and Android OTG adapter |
| Compatibility | Windows 7 or later, Mac OS 10.12 or later, Android 10.0 or later, Chrome OS 88 or later, Harmony OS 2 or later |
| Shortcut Keys | 8 customizable soft keys |
The moment I picked up the XP-Pen 6*4 inch drawing tablet, I immediately noticed how smooth and natural the pressure sensitivity felt. The 16,384 levels of pressure make every stroke feel like sketching on real paper, especially when shading or adding delicate details.
The battery-free stylus with tilt support is a game-changer. It offers precise control, and I barely felt any lag, even during fast OSU taps or quick sketches.
The 60° tilt support really lets you add nuanced shading without extra effort, making your lines look more expressive and life-like.
What really surprised me is how portable this tiny tablet is. It fits comfortably in my bag, and with the included OTG adapter, I can connect directly to my Android phone.
This means I can sketch or edit photos on the go—no need for a bulky setup, which is perfect for spontaneous ideas or quick edits.
The 8 customizable soft keys are super handy. I set mine up for common functions like undo, brush, and eraser, speeding up my workflow.
Plus, it’s compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and Chrome OS, so I can switch devices without hassle.
For gaming, especially OSU, the ultra-low latency really shines. My taps registered instantly, and I felt confident that I could keep up with fast-paced gameplay.
The compact size doesn’t sacrifice performance, making it a versatile tool for art, gaming, or quick annotations.
While it’s fantastic for portability and precision, keep in mind it requires a computer connection to work. If you want a standalone device, this isn’t it.
What Features Make a Graphic Tablet Ideal for Osu Gameplay?
When selecting the best osu graphic tablet for gameplay, several key features enhance performance and user experience.
- Pressure Sensitivity: A high level of pressure sensitivity allows for nuanced control, making it easier to perform precise taps and strokes during gameplay. Tablets with 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity or more provide a significant advantage, allowing players to adjust their input based on how hard they press the pen.
- Response Time: A low response time ensures that every action you make is registered as quickly as possible, which is crucial in fast-paced games like osu. Ideally, a tablet should have a response time of under 10 milliseconds to minimize any lag between the player’s input and the on-screen action.
- Active Area Size: The size of the active area on the tablet affects how freely players can move their stylus. A larger active area allows for broader movements, which can be beneficial for players who favor sweeping motions, while a smaller area may be sufficient for those who prefer more precision.
- Pen Design: The ergonomics and design of the stylus can greatly influence comfort during extended gameplay sessions. A lightweight pen with a comfortable grip and no need for batteries is ideal, as it minimizes hand fatigue and distractions while playing.
- Compatibility: Ensuring the graphic tablet is compatible with your operating system and the osu software is essential for a seamless experience. Most modern tablets support both Windows and macOS, but checking compatibility with specific drivers and software is always recommended.
- Build Quality: A robust build quality can lead to better longevity and durability, particularly for gamers who play for long periods. Tablets made from high-quality materials can withstand repeated use and accidental drops, which is crucial for maintaining a reliable setup.
- Customizable Buttons: Having customizable buttons on the tablet can enhance gameplay by allowing players to assign functions or shortcuts, improving efficiency and control. This feature lets players quickly access critical commands without needing to move their hands to the keyboard.
How Does Pen Pressure Sensitivity Impact Your Performance in Osu?
Pen pressure sensitivity significantly affects gameplay performance in Osu, enhancing precision and responsiveness for players.
- Enhanced Control: Greater pressure sensitivity allows players to control the intensity of their strokes, which translates into more nuanced gameplay. This means players can vary their tapping strength, leading to better accuracy on hit circles and sliders.
- Improved Reaction Time: Tablets with better pressure sensitivity can detect subtle variations in pressure, enabling quicker response times. This responsiveness can be crucial in fast-paced sections of songs where split-second accuracy is required.
- Artistic Expression: For players who also create beatmaps or enjoy the artistic side of Osu, a tablet with high pressure sensitivity allows for more expressive drawing and design. This capability can enhance the overall aesthetic quality of custom maps, leading to a better viewing experience for players.
- Fatigue Reduction: Tablets that accurately respond to varying pressure levels can reduce the strain on hands during long gaming sessions. This ergonomic advantage allows players to maintain their performance over extended periods without compromising comfort.
- Learning Curve: Players using tablets with advanced pressure sensitivity might experience a steeper learning curve. While the benefits are noticeable, adapting to the subtleties of pressure-sensitive gameplay can take time and practice, making it essential to choose a tablet that suits one’s skill level.
What Size of Graphic Tablet Enhances Your Osu Experience?
The size of a graphic tablet can significantly impact your gaming experience in Osu, enhancing both performance and comfort.
- Small (4×3 inches): Ideal for portability, small tablets are convenient for players who want to game on the go.
- Medium (6×4 inches): A balanced option, medium tablets provide enough space for precise movements without taking up too much desk real estate.
- Large (10×6 inches): Large tablets offer ample surface area for sweeping motions, allowing for increased accuracy and comfort during long play sessions.
- Extra Large (12×8 inches or larger): These tablets are preferred by professional players for their expansive drawing area, which accommodates a variety of play styles.
Small tablets are lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for gamers who travel frequently. However, the limited surface area can restrict quick movements, which may be a drawback for more advanced players.
Medium tablets strike a good balance between portability and performance, allowing for adequate movement without overwhelming desk space. They are often recommended for casual to intermediate players who want a comfortable gaming experience.
Large tablets provide a generous drawing area, which facilitates fluid and expansive gestures that are essential for high-speed gameplay in Osu. Players may find that this size reduces hand fatigue and allows for greater precision during intense gameplay sessions.
Extra large tablets cater to those who play professionally or at a highly competitive level, providing the most room for movement. This size can help players execute complex patterns and achieve higher accuracy, making it a popular choice among top Osu competitors.
How Important is Tablet Resolution for Accuracy in Osu?
- Resolution (DPI): The dots per inch (DPI) setting of a tablet determines how responsive it is to movements. A higher DPI means that even small movements of the stylus will be detected more accurately, which is essential for the fast-paced nature of Osu. Players often prefer tablets with at least 2000 DPI for fine control over their gameplay.
- Active Area Size: The size of the active area on a tablet affects how much screen space you can utilize while playing. A larger active area allows for more sweeping movements, which can enhance the ability to hit notes accurately. However, finding the right balance between size and comfort is key, as a too-large tablet may lead to arm fatigue.
- Screen Resolution: The resolution of the display you are using alongside your tablet can also impact gameplay. A higher screen resolution provides clearer visuals and can improve the overall experience, making it easier to see and react to in-game elements. This is particularly important in Osu, where visual clarity can make the difference in timing and accuracy.
- Pressure Sensitivity: The level of pressure sensitivity in a tablet affects how the stylus responds to varying amounts of pressure. This feature allows for nuanced control, which can be beneficial for executing different types of movements and strokes in Osu. Tablets with at least 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity are generally recommended for competitive play.
- Pen Responsiveness: This refers to how quickly the tablet registers the stylus’s movements and actions. A tablet with low latency ensures that there is minimal delay between the player’s input and the game’s response, which is vital for maintaining accuracy during fast-paced gameplay. Tablets designed specifically for gaming often prioritize high responsiveness to cater to this need.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Using a Graphic Tablet for Osu?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enhanced precision and control for better performance. | Higher cost compared to using a mouse. |
| Customizable settings for personalized gameplay. | Learning curve for new users transitioning from a mouse. |
| Pressure sensitivity provides a more natural feel. | Requires desk space and may need additional setup. |
| Recommended graphic tablets for Osu include Wacom Intuos, Huion Kamvas, and XP-Pen Deco. | |
| Can reduce strain on wrist compared to a mouse. | Prolonged use may lead to discomfort or strain. |
| Compatible with most operating systems. | Some models may have limited OS support. |
How Can a Graphic Tablet Improve Your Skills in Osu?
A graphic tablet can significantly enhance your skills in Osu by providing precision, comfort, and customizable options for gameplay. The best osu graphic tablets cater to these needs effectively.
- Pressure Sensitivity: A high level of pressure sensitivity allows for nuanced control over your movements in the game. This feature enables players to adjust their stroke intensity, which can lead to more accurate tapping and smoother gameplay.
- Active Area Size: The size of the active area on a graphic tablet is crucial for optimal performance. A larger active area provides more space for movement, allowing for more fluid wrist and arm motions, which can help improve speed and accuracy in Osu!
- Stylus Responsiveness: A responsive stylus ensures that your actions are registered instantaneously, reducing any lag that could affect your gameplay. This immediate feedback is vital in a rhythm game like Osu, where timing is everything.
- Customizable Buttons: Many graphic tablets come with customizable buttons that can be mapped to various functions within Osu. This feature allows players to set up their devices for quick access to essential commands, creating a more streamlined and efficient gaming experience.
- Ergonomics: The ergonomic design of a graphic tablet can reduce strain during long gaming sessions. Comfort is key to maintaining focus and performance, and a well-designed tablet can help prevent fatigue and improve overall gameplay endurance.
- Compatibility: Ensuring that your graphic tablet is compatible with Osu is essential for a seamless experience. Some tablets offer better integration with the software, providing features specifically designed for rhythm gaming, enhancing the overall functionality.
What Limitations Should You Be Aware of When Using Graphic Tablets in Osu?
When using graphic tablets in Osu, there are several limitations to be aware of:
- Pressure Sensitivity: Many graphic tablets offer varying levels of pressure sensitivity, which can affect how your strokes are registered in the game. If the tablet’s sensitivity is too high or too low, it may result in inaccurate inputs, making it difficult to hit notes precisely.
- Size and Active Area: The size of the tablet and its active area can significantly impact gameplay. A smaller active area may lead to awkward hand movements, particularly for high-speed play, while a larger tablet might require more arm movement, which can be tiring over extended sessions.
- Driver Compatibility: Some tablets may have compatibility issues with the drivers necessary for optimal performance in Osu. If the drivers are outdated or not functioning correctly, it can lead to latency or other input issues that hinder your gaming experience.
- Surface Texture: The texture of the tablet surface can affect the glide of the stylus. A rough surface might provide more friction and control, but can also slow down quick movements, while a smoother surface may allow for faster movements but less control, making it challenging to maintain accuracy.
- Response Time: The response time of the tablet can affect how quickly your inputs are registered in the game. A tablet with slower response times may result in noticeable lag, which can be detrimental during fast-paced gameplay where timing is crucial.
- Customizability: Some tablets offer limited options for customizing settings, such as button mappings or sensitivity adjustments. This can restrict your ability to tailor the tablet to your specific play style, which is important for optimizing performance in Osu.
What Do Users Think About Different Graphic Tablets for Osu?
- Wacom Intuos Pro: Known for its high sensitivity and precision, the Wacom Intuos Pro is a favorite among Osu players. Users appreciate the customizable express keys and touch ring, which enhance gameplay efficiency by allowing quick access to settings and commands.
- Huion Kamvas: The Huion Kamvas series offers a great balance of price and performance, making it a popular choice for many gamers. Players often note its large active area and responsive stylus, which allow for smooth and accurate tracking during intense gameplay sessions.
- XP-Pen Deco: The XP-Pen Deco tablets are praised for their affordability and solid performance, making them accessible for casual and competitive players alike. Users highlight the lightweight design and impressive pressure sensitivity, which contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable gaming experience.
- Gaomon PD Series: The Gaomon PD series is appreciated for its value, especially among beginners. Users often mention the vibrant display and user-friendly interface that help new players get accustomed to the game while still offering advanced features for experienced users.
- Apple iPad with Apple Pencil: Some players opt for the Apple iPad combined with the Apple Pencil for its portability and versatility. Users frequently comment on the seamless integration with digital drawing applications and the high responsiveness of the stylus, making it a viable option for Osu gaming on the go.
What Common Feedback Do Players Share About Their Tablets?
Players often share a variety of feedback about their tablets used for playing osu!, focusing on performance, features, and usability.
- Pen Pressure Sensitivity: Many players appreciate tablets that offer high levels of pen pressure sensitivity, which allows for nuanced control and better responsiveness during gameplay. This feature enhances the ability to execute delicate movements and is crucial for hitting notes accurately.
- Active Area Size: A common preference among players is the size of the tablet’s active area. Larger active areas provide more space for wide movement, which can improve accuracy and comfort during extended play sessions, while smaller tablets may be more portable but can limit motion.
- Build Quality and Durability: Players often comment on the build quality of their tablets, with a focus on how well they withstand frequent use. A sturdy tablet can endure the wear and tear of vigorous gaming, ensuring longevity and consistent performance over time.
- Driver Software: Feedback frequently highlights the importance of user-friendly driver software that allows for easy customization of settings like sensitivity and button mapping. Players prefer tablets with straightforward software that offers flexibility and doesn’t require extensive technical knowledge to configure.
- Price-to-Performance Ratio: Players often discuss the balance between cost and the features offered by the tablet. Many seek a tablet that provides excellent performance without breaking the bank, making value for money a critical aspect of their feedback.
- Response Time: The response time of the tablet is crucial for osu! players, as a lower latency can significantly enhance gameplay experience. Many players seek tablets with minimal lag to ensure that their input is registered instantly, which is vital for hitting fast-paced notes accurately.
How Do You Optimize Your Graphic Tablet Settings for Osu?
To optimize your graphic tablet settings for playing Osu, focus on sensitivity, mapping, and driver configurations.
- Tablet Sensitivity: Adjusting the tablet sensitivity is crucial for achieving the right balance between speed and precision. A lower sensitivity can help in making fine movements, while a higher sensitivity can facilitate quicker swipes across the screen, allowing for faster gameplay.
- Pen Pressure Settings: Configuring pen pressure settings can enhance your control when tapping and drawing on the tablet. Make sure to customize the pressure curve to suit your playing style, ensuring that light taps register accurately while also allowing for harder presses when necessary.
- Button Mapping: Mapping additional buttons on your tablet to specific in-game actions can greatly enhance your efficiency. Assign buttons for functions like ‘hit’ or ‘slider’ to minimize hand movement and maximize reaction time, allowing for smoother gameplay.
- Driver Settings: Ensure that you have the latest drivers installed for your graphic tablet, as this can significantly affect performance. Adjust settings in the driver software to optimize polling rate and response time, which are critical for a responsive gaming experience.
- Screen Area Mapping: Customizing the active area of your tablet to match your screen size can improve your accuracy. This setting allows you to align the tablet’s usable area with your monitor, making it easier to aim and hit targets without excessive arm movement.
- Test and Adjust: Regularly test your settings in practice modes or lower difficulty maps to gauge their effectiveness. Be open to adjustments based on your comfort and performance, as the ideal setup may vary from player to player.