Drawing tablets have become essential for casual users, graphic artists, and digital creatives of all types. While these devices were once reserved for use with desktop computers, advancements in technology have made it possible to connect them to smartphones as well.
But with so many different models and brands of drawing tablets on the market, it can be challenging to know which ones are compatible with smartphones.
- Related: Best Stylus pens for Android Phones & Tablets
- Related: Best Stylus Pens For iPhones (Drawing & Writing)
In this article, we’ll explore the best drawing tablets that work with Android and iPhone devices, their different types, and everything you need to know about using drawing tablets with Android smartphones (and iPhones)
At a Glance – Top Picks
Below are our top picks for the best drawing tablets for smartphones:
- Wacom One – Best overall Drawing Tablet with a screen for Android Phones
- XP Pen – Best Overall Graphics tablet for Android Phones
- Wacom Intuos – a Premium graphics tablet choice (Smartphone compatible)
- Huion Kamvas Pro 13 – Pen Display drawing tablet with smartphone compatibility
- Huion H610 Pro V2 – Graphics Tablet that works with Android SmartPhones (Balanced pick)
- At a Glance – Top Picks
- Can you connect a Drawing tablet to your Smartphone?
- What Types of Drawing Tablets will Connect to a Smartphone?
- Which Drawing Tablets work with Android Phones?
- Best Drawing Tablets for Android Smartphones
- 1. Wacom One – Best overall Drawing Tablet with a screen for Android Phones
- 2. XP Pen – Best Overall Graphics tablet for Android Phones
- 3. Wacom Intuos – a Premium graphics tablet choice (Smartphone compatible)
- 4. Huion Kamvas Pro 13 – Pen Display drawing tablet with smartphone compatibility
- 5. Huion H610 Pro V2 – Graphics Tablet that works with Android SmartPhones (Balanced pick)
- How to connect a Drawing tablet to an iPhone or Android Smartphone
- Drawing Apps that work with a Drawing Pad on Android Phones & Tablets
- FAQ
- Why connect a drawing tablet to a phone?
- Which Wacom Tablets work with an Android Phone or Tablet?
- Is a USB hub required to link your pen display to a phone?
- Can you connect a drawing tablet to an iPad or Tablet?
- Can you use your phone as a drawing tablet for a Laptop?
- Do Xencelabs tablets work with android phones?
- Bottom Line
Can you connect a Drawing tablet to your Smartphone?
Yes, you can connect a drawing tablet to a smartphone and draw on drawing apps, but only certain models allow for this. Android smartphones have significantly more options than iPhone when it comes to compatible Graphics tablets, Pen Displays, and drawing pads of all types.
Looking to use a drawing tablet with a screen built-in with your phone? In this case – you’ll need a phone like the ASUS ROG Phone 6, Fairphone 4, or Honor Magic V due to hardware requirements (more on this later).
However, in most cases, the Samsung Galaxy Fold is the best smartphone to use with a drawing tablet due to it’s large screen size.
Connecting a drawing tablet to a phone offers portability and eliminates the need for an additional display device, allowing users to draw anywhere with wireless Bluetooth compatibility, particularly for Android phones.
What Types of Drawing Tablets will Connect to a Smartphone?
The type of drawing tablet you can use with a smartphone all depends on whether or not you prefer to connect a Drawing tablet with a screen, or a graphics tablet (no screen).
Both these drawing devices can connect to a Smartphone; a Graphics tablets can use bluetooth, while Pen displays (also known as a Drawing tablet with a screen) typically require USB-C connection.
Related: Best digital art pads & Tablets for Beginner Artists
Graphics Tablet (no screen)
The most popular option to use as a drawing device with your smartphone is a graphics tablet. Why? They are lightweight, portable, and accurate, making them ideal for digital artists who want to work on the go.
Graphics tablets come in a range of sizes, from small and compact to larger models with more features.
Important: Choosing a Wireless Drawing Tablets is a smart idea for Android smartphones, mostly because you want to avoid a wired setup for convenience purposes.
The best graphics tablets for Android smartphones include the Gaomon, Huion H610 Pro, Xp-Pen Deco, and Wacom Intuos (however, the Wacom One has a screen built-in and also works; more on this later)
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Side Note: The Huion Kamvas, and the XP-Pen Artist also work well on most android devices (however these are Pen Tablet displays, not graphics tablets).
These tablets are all relatively affordable and offer a range of features, such as pressure sensitivity levels and customizable buttons.
Pen Display Tablet (with screen)
What do you need to use a Drawing tablet with a screen on your smartphone?
Pen Tablets require that your phone have a few hardware requirements, which some Android phones like the ASUS ROG Phone 5, Fairphone 4, and Honor Magic V have. These are:
- USB C 3.1
- DP 1.2 (DisplayPort alt mode)
- Necessary hardware to support tech specs of drawing tablet.
- Long battery life
The advantage Is that you’ll have a screen, the disadvantage is that some smartphone Hardware and not be able to handle specs required.
You’ll need a Smartphone with hardware that can support the pen display you choose. It will likely take up battery on your phone, so make sure the device you choose is bluetooth and your Phone battery lifespan is not of concern.
Related: Ways to Use Your Phone as a Drawing Tablet
Which Drawing Tablets work with Android Phones?
Several leading drawing tablet brands like XP-Pen, Wacom, and Huion offer (select models) that can connect with Android devices.
Of these, XP-Pen and Wacom seem to be the most popular choices among graphic artists and digital creatives who are looking to go the mobile phone route.
XP-Pen offers a range of tablets that are compatible with Android phones, including the compact Star G640S, the budget-friendly Star G960S and Star G960S Plus, and the larger Deco 01 V2 and Deco Pro Series.
- The Huion Kamvas, and the XP-Pen Artist are both devices that work with Android Smartphones.
- XP-Pen’s Deco mini series and Deco Fun Series are also great options if you’re looking for a wireless drawing tablet that won’t take up much space on your desk or an affordable solution for drawing, writing, and taking notes.
- The Artist (2nd Generation) series provides a fully laminated display with a matte surface, making it feel more like paper and allowing for a more natural drawing experience.
It’s important to note that not all Android devices are compatible with drawing tablets, so be sure to check compatibility before making a purchase.
Also, some Samsung devices like the Note 4, 8, 9, and S7/S8 are not compatible with XP-Pen tablets. With all that said, XP-Pen offers a variety of options at an affordable price for those looking for wired or wireless drawing tablets that can connect with their Android devices.
Related: Drawing tablet for mac
Best Drawing Tablets for Android Smartphones
While there are numerous drawing tablets available in the market, finding one that works seamlessly with your smartphone can be a challenge. Below are our top picks for the Best drawing tablets for Android and iPhones.
1. Wacom One – Best overall Drawing Tablet with a screen for Android Phones
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Wacom one is one of the few drawing tablets from Wacom that actually worked well with Android SmartPhones during our hands-on testing. It’s compatible with Samsung Galaxy Tablets, Huawei Mate/Honor Pro devices, and Smartisan.
Note: Wacom doesn’t work with iPhone, very few devices do for drawing besides the Deco models from XP-Pen.
What we liked: The Wacom One is an affordable and accessible entry point for artists looking for a drawing tablet, especially if they need to connect it to an Android smartphone. With its ability to work with Windows, Mac, and Android devices, the Wacom One is a versatile option that caters to various needs.
Related: Best stylus pens for Android Phones & Tablets
Although the device is at a fraction of the price of Wacom’s Cintiq displays, it still offers reliable and smooth performance for 2D and 3D artists looking for a more natural way to create.
Full list of compatible devices:
One of the Wacom One’s main advantages is its compatibility with other styluses besides the one it comes with. Moreover, it is a plug-and-play device that works with USB and HDMI cables and comes with USB-C adaptors included for both.
What we didn’t like: However, the device’s screen resolution of 1920 by 1080 may be inadequate for some users, and its matte surface can diffuse reflections and reduce brightness in rooms with overhead downlighting.
Even so, the Wacom One is one of the best options for artists looking for their first drawing display that works with Android smartphones (or any device at that).
2. XP Pen – Best Overall Graphics tablet for Android Phones
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Although many of their models are capable of connecting, some specific tablets or phones may not be compatible. Here is a list of the best drawing tablets from XP-Pen that work with Android Phones.
Analyzing, we can see that XP-Pen offers a variety of drawing tablets that cater to different needs and preferences.
- The Xp-Pen Artist (2nd Generation) series provides a fully laminated display with a matte surface, making it feel more like paper and allowing for a more natural drawing experience.
- The Deco 01 V2 offers a large drawing space and fast tracking for increased productivity.
- The Deco mini series is ideal for those looking for a compact and sleek/minimalistic design, while the Deco Fun Series offers an economical solution for drawing and writing.
| XP-Pen Tablet | Size | Active Drawing Space | Compatibility | Stylus Pressure Sensitivity | Other Features |
| Star G640S | 6.5 x 4 inches | 6.5 x 4 inches (165.1 x 101.6mm) | Windows, macOS, Android | 8192 levels | Passive stylus, compact design |
| Star G960S / Star G960S Plus | 9 x 6 inches | 9 x 6 inches | Windows, macOS, Android | 8192 levels | Budget-friendly, stylus support for unique brush effects |
| Deco 01 V2 | 10 x 6.25 inches | 10 x 6.25 inches | Windows, macOS, Android | Pressure and tilt sensitivity, fast and accurate tracking | Larger drawing space, increased productivity |
| Deco Pro Series | Varies | Varies | Windows, macOS, Android | Pressure and tilt sensitivity | Premium build quality, capable drawing experience |
| Deco mini4 / Deco mini7 / Deco mini7W | Varies | Varies | Windows, macOS, Android | Eight customizable ExpressKeys | Compact and minimalistic design |
| Deco Fun Series | XS/S/L | Varies | Windows, macOS, Android, Chromebook | Pressure sensitivity, economical solution | Available in different sizes and colors |
| Artist (2nd Generation) series | 10.1″, 11.9″, 13.3″, 15.4″ | Varies | Windows, macOS, Android | Pressure sensitivity | Fully laminated display with matte surface, covers more than 90% of Adobe RGB color gamu |
The above table/chart summarizes the XPPen drawing tablets that are compatible with Android devices. It includes information such as the tablet size, screen size, active drawing space, compatibility with different systems, stylus pressure sensitivity, and other features.
One downside I found is that the compatibility for certain Samsung tablets/phones lacks. For example, Samsung Note 4,8,9, and S7/S8 devices don’t work with XP Pen tablets.
3. Wacom Intuos – a Premium graphics tablet choice (Smartphone compatible)
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If you’re looking for a graphics tablet that can work with your Android smartphone, the Wacom Intuos is a great option to consider. With its affordable price point and compact design, the Wacom Intuos is the perfect gateway to pressure-sensitive editing and design for more users.
Available in two sizes, small or medium, with 7-inch and 10-inch diagonal work surfaces respectively, the Intuos offers 4,096 levels of pressure-sensitive pen control.
Important: The Wacom devices are primarily built for Android, Mac, windows, but it just happens to support Android smartphones – like most drawing tablets; it’s not dedicated to serving mobile phones.
…the medium model also includes Bluetooth as standard, which makes it a convenient option for those who want to connect wirelessly to their Android smartphone.
Unlike Wacom’s flashier Cintiq line of pen displays (As well as the Wacom One model), the Intuos doesn’t have a screen. The tablet surface corresponds to your Android smartphone screen, making it a screen-free design.
What we liked: While it may sound less intuitive than drawing directly on the screen, in practice, it feels natural. The majority of the tablet is taken up by the work surface, with a set of five customizable buttons above it, called Express Keys.
Setting up the tablet is easy, and once connected to your compatible Android smartphone (see all devices), you can use the Intuos in any app. The customizable buttons on both the tablet and the pen allow for a more efficient workflow.
Also see: What Is A Wacom Tablet And How Do They Work?
4. Huion Kamvas Pro 13 – Pen Display drawing tablet with smartphone compatibility
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Many models work with Android 6 and later… and the The Huion Kamvas Pro is one of them. Both the 13&16 (2.5K) is compatible with Android phones and tablets – and can be connected using a USB-C to USB-C cable.
How it works with Android smartphones:
The tablet is compatible with Android devices via a USB-C to USB-C cable, and you can even achieve full-screen display, though you’ll need to activate the Samsung DeX/EMUI Desktop mode.
Important: If your smartphone doesn’t have a USB-C, then you’ll need the right USB-C OTG Adapter to make this drawing tablet work with your phone.
What we liked: Although it may lack some of the high-end features of its competitors, the Huion Kamvas Pro 13 makes up for it with its exceptional display quality. The QLED screen produces bright colors and a level of vibrancy that makes digital art pop.
The Huion Kamvas Pro 13 is a pen display, which means you draw directly onto the screen. While it’s not a standalone device like an iPad, it can be connected to your PC, Mac, or Android device, making it an excellent option for digital artists who prefer to work on multiple platforms.
Note: Huion works particularly well as a drawing tablet for photoshop & illustrator.
Set up details
How to set it up: For the Huion Kamvas, the setup wasn’t as complex as we thought – you have to connect the pen display to your phone or tablet through the use a USB-C to USB-C cable – Use the USB power cable and power adapter to power up the device.
You may have to set up your tablet in something called “phone mode”.
Once the device is powered on, the phone screen will be mirrored to Kamvas Pro. After that you have to activate the Samsung DeX / EMUI Desktop mode, navigate to the phone settings.
Note: To achieve a full-screen display, users need to enable the Desktop Mode on Huawei phones and DeX Mode on Samsung phones. However, it is important to note that not all Android devices support the full-screen mode on the display. To ensure compatibility, users can refer to the list of compatible Android devices provided below. (source)
If you’re looking for a high-quality drawing tablet that works with both PC and smartphone, then the Huion Kamvas Pro 13 certainly fits the criteria for creative professionals and casual artists alike. With a QHD display, fully laminated screen, and 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity (very high), this pen display is a top pick.
5. Huion H610 Pro V2 – Graphics Tablet that works with Android SmartPhones (Balanced pick)
The HUION H610 Pro V2 is a graphics tablet that supports Android smartphones, but not iPhones or iPads. The tablet features an innovative tilt control system, 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, and customizable shortcut keys. However, it’s important to note that the tablet must be connected to a computer or Android device to use, and the cursor may not show up on Samsung devices.
Note: The HUION H610 Pro V2 is compatible with a range of operating systems – including Android Phones (OS 6.0 and above). You’ll need to update firmware, to make the drawing tablet work via the OTG connector – note that iPad and iPhone are not supported.
What we liked: Another feature that makes the HUION H610 Pro V2 stand out is its customizable shortcut keys. The tablet comes with eight customized press keys and sixteen customized soft keys that are easy to set up. Artists can even set the two pen buttons to their preferred functions such as the eraser.
What we didn’t like: The stylus pen for HUION H610 Pro V2 is very delicate… this can be a downside for some users who tend to be rough on their drawing equipment.
However, the HUION H610 Pro V2 is a reliable, ultra compatible option for beginners, pros, and even casual artists of all types, and is highly recommended.
How to connect a Drawing tablet to an iPhone or Android Smartphone
Connecting a drawing tablet to your smartphone can offer a convenient and portable way to create digital art on-the-go. However, the steps to connect a drawing tablet to an iPhone or Android smartphone can differ based on the device.
Android:
For Android devices, the process is typically more straightforward than for iPhones, as there are more drawing tablet compatibility options available. Here are some steps to connect your drawing tablet to an Android smartphone:
Be sure to have an Android smartphone (iOS devices have very, very limited drawing tablet compatibility).
- Ensure that your desired drawing app is compatible with both your drawing tablet and smartphone.
- Install the drawing software on your device and set up the pen settings as desired.
- Connect the tablet to your smartphone via Bluetooth.
- Once connected, you can begin drawing on your smartphone using your drawing tablet.
iPhone:
If you’re an iPhone user, you can still use a drawing tablet by using the XP-Pen Deco series. The Deco Pro SW, Deco MW, Deco LW, and Deco Pro MW all work as drawing tablets that can be connected to an iPhone to draw with various drawing apps.
Once you have your compatible drawing tablet, you’ll need to ensure that the drawing app you want to use works with your device. Then, you’ll need to install the drawing software and set up the pen settings. After that, you can connect your tablet to your smartphone via Bluetooth and begin drawing!
Xp-Pen seems to be the winner when it comes to drawing tablets for iPhone, other than that there isn’t too much compatibility floating around the digital artist world for it since most Apple device owners I know use an iPad and Apple Pencil.
Related: Smartphone Alternatives: 8 Best Non Smart Phones
How to connect a Drawing tablet to iPhone and draw
Drawing with a stylus on an iPhone can be a great way to bring your creative ideas to life on a small yet powerful device.
…with the limited compatibility of drawing tablets with iPhones, it can be a bit of a challenge to get started. This is because the only drawing app I’ve seen work with a drawing tablet thats connected to an iPhone is Ibis Paint X.
If you have a Deco tablet, Ibis Paint X, and an iPhone ,you’ll be able to connect it and draw. Here’s how:
- Activate Bluetooth on your iPhone or iPad.
- Turn on your Deco tablet by pressing the power button.
- Press and hold the K1 button on the top right corner of your tablet for 2-3 seconds to enter Bluetooth pairing mode – make sure you’re in portrait mode.
- Pair the tablet with your iPhone in the Bluetooth settings.
- Open Ibis Paint X and tap the gear icon on the top right to enter the settings menu.
- Scroll down to Pressure Sensitive Stylus and select XPPEN pen tablet from the drop-down menu.
- Your devices are now paired and ready for use in drawing apps.
Drawing Apps that work with a Drawing Pad on Android Phones & Tablets
There are a handful of drawing apps that work with a drawing pad on Android; including both free and paid options. Make sure you check the full compatibility details of the drawing app with your specific drawing pad.
Drawing apps that work with a drawing pad on Android Smartphones & Tablets:
| Drawing App | Platform | Cost |
| Autodesk Sketchbook | Android | Free |
| ibisPaint | Android | Free |
| MediBang Paint | Android | Free |
| Bamboo Paper | Android | Free |
| ArtFlow | Android | Free |
| Infinite Painter | Android | Paid |
| Clip Studio Paint | Android | Paid |
| Magma Studio | Android | Free |
| Concepts | Android | Free |
| Tayasui Sketches | Android | Free |
| Adobe Fresco | Android | Free/Paid |
| ArtRage | Android | Paid |
Note: Compatibility may vary depending on the specific drawing pad/tablet you’re using and the version of Android your Smartphone or Tablet is running.
Related: 8 Best Digital Writing Pads (Electronic Notebooks)
Drawing apps that work with a Wacom graphics tablet on a smartphone:
If you are using a drawing tablet on your Android or iPhone device, it’s essential to have the right drawing app to create stunning digital artwork. Here are some recommended drawing apps that work with various drawing pads:
For Wacom Intuos users, some of the best drawing apps available for Android and iPhone include AutoDesk Sketchbook, ibisPaint, MediBang Paint, and Bamboo Paper. Each app has its unique features, such as brush customization, layer management, and canvas sizing.
AutoDesk Sketchbook is a popular drawing app that is free to download and has a user-friendly interface. It’s an ideal choice for beginners and professionals alike, offering various brushes and tools to help you create stunning digital artwork.
Also see: Top 10 Duet Display Alternatives (Free And Paid) Reviewed
ibisPaint is another popular drawing app that is also available for free on both Android and iPhone. It has a comprehensive set of brushes and tools and also allows you to record your drawing process.
MediBang Paint is an app that is specifically designed for creating manga and comics. It has a vast selection of pre-made backgrounds, tones, and frames, making it an ideal choice for comic artists.
Lastly, Bamboo Paper is a great app for those looking to create simple sketches or notes on their drawing pad. It allows you to choose from a variety of paper types and pens, making it a perfect tool for jotting down ideas or creating quick sketches.
FAQ
Why connect a drawing tablet to a phone?
- Portability: Someone might want to use a drawing tablet with their phone so that they can draw anywhere, making portability the biggest advantage.
- One less device: It also would mean you don’t need a device with a display to connect the drawing pad to, such as a laptop or desktop computer.
While the iPad allows you to draw right on the screen, there are also wireless drawing tablets you can use. (as well as standalone drawing tablets for maximum portability). These tablets offer a wireless bluetooth option, which lets them work with most Android phones.
Which Wacom Tablets work with an Android Phone or Tablet?
Both the Wacom One and Wacom Intuos are compatible with certain Android devices. This means you can use your Android device as a canvas for your digital creations, giving you more flexibility and portability in your workflow. However, it’s important to note that not all Android devices are compatible, so it’s best to check the specifications.
Is a USB hub required to link your pen display to a phone?
Not necessarily, in some cases, certain devices do require a USB connection and a USB Hub can satisfy the USB-C requirements.
For example, XPPen’s Artist 2nd gen range and the Huion Kamvas can be connected to a phone using a single USB-C cable, while the Wacom One requires a USB hub that includes USB-A and HDMI ports with a USB-C connector, along with a separate Wacom X-shaped cable to connect the devices together and to a power outlet.
Can you connect a drawing tablet to an iPad or Tablet?
Yes you can connect a drawing tablet to the iPad or an Android tablet. however Android tablets have several more options and iPad has only one, the Deco from XP pen. iPad also only allows for one app Ibis paint X. If you want to use an iPad you can turn it into a drawing tablet by simply adding an apple pencil.
Yes, you can connect a drawing tablet to an Android tablet. As mentioned earlier, several leading drawing tablet brands like Wacom and XP-Pen offer select models that can connect with Android devices, including tablets. The same requirements and compatibility issues mentioned earlier for Android phones apply to Android tablets as well.
Related: 7 Best Stylus For IPad Air (Drawing, Writing, Notes)
It’s important to ensure that your Android device has the necessary hardware requirements to support the drawing tablet, including a USB C 3.1 port, DP 1.2 (DisplayPort alt mode), and necessary hardware to support the tech specs of the drawing tablet. If your Android tablet does not have a USB C port, you may need an OTG (On-The-Go) adapter to connect the two devices.
NOte: It’s worth noting that if you plan to use a Graphics tablet with your Android device, you may want to consider getting a large Android tablet for ease of drawing. A larger screen can provide a more comfortable and accurate drawing experience, especially for detailed work. However, keep in mind that larger tablets may also be heavier and less portable.
Related: iPad Vs Laptop Pros And Cons
Can you use your phone as a drawing tablet for a Laptop?
You can use your phone as a drawing tablet for your laptop with the help of third-party apps like Chrome Remote Desktop. The app allows you to mirror your Windows PC on your Android device and control it remotely. However, keep in mind that the drawing experience may not be as smooth or precise as using a dedicated drawing tablet.
Do Xencelabs tablets work with android phones?
Xencelabs graphics tablets do not appear to be compatible with Android phones, based on our testing. We have not found any evidence to suggest that they work with Android smartphones or iPhones.
Bottom Line
Connecting a drawing tablet to an Android smartphone is very possible, but not all models allow for it so selecting the best ones required some effort and testing from our team. Note that Android smartphones have far more options when it comes to compatible graphics tablets, pen displays, and drawing pads.
The best options, XP-Pen and Wacom, as they are the most popular choices among graphic artists and digital creatives who need a portable drawing solution and their manufacturers have guides on how to use their devices for smartphones.
Related: 7 Best Drawing Tablets For Mac
XP-Pen offers a range of tablets that are compatible with Android phones, including the compact Star G640S, the budget-friendly Star G960S and Star G960S Plus, and the larger Deco 01 V2 and Deco Pro Series.
On the other hand, the Wacom One is the best option for artists looking for a drawing tablet with a screen that works with Android smartphones. However, not all Android devices are compatible with drawing tablets, so be sure to check compatibility before making a choice.
