Try the Tablet You Own Before Buying a Wacom Cintiq
Short answer
If you already own a pen-capable iPad or Galaxy Tab, Any Display can connect the computer screen and stylus input so you can test your workflow before buying a Cintiq. It lowers the up-front cost by using Windows Ink and a streamed display. Choose a Wacom Cintiq when calibrated color, WinTab workflows, a dedicated pen surface, or physical shortcuts are essential.
This comparison does not claim that Any Display is always better than a Cintiq. It helps tablet owners decide how much of their work can be covered before investing in dedicated pen-display hardware.
Key points
- Reusing a tablet can delay or avoid another display purchase
- Any Display Pen Input is beta and uses Windows Ink
- Cintiq remains stronger for professional color, WinTab, and dedicated controls
The comparison focuses on reusing existing hardware versus buying a purpose-built production device.
| Feature | Any Display | Wacom Cintiq |
|---|---|---|
| Additional cost | Free test with an existing tablet | Dedicated hardware purchase |
| Pen input | Pressure and tilt from supported devices | Purpose-built Wacom pen and display |
| Windows input | Windows Ink | Professional workflows based on model and driver |
| Color and surface | Depends on the tablet you own | Published model specifications and dedicated surface |
| Physical shortcuts | Tablet and app interface | Available by model or accessory |
| Second-monitor use | General second screen plus pen mode | Pen-display-focused hardware |
- Who should try Any Display first?
- People who already own an iPad or Galaxy Tab and want to start sketching, handwriting, rough work, or retouching. The free version lets you evaluate the real tablet and app combination.
- Who should choose a Cintiq?
- A dedicated device is more predictable for long professional sessions, managed color, specific WinTab workflows, a purpose-built pen surface, and physical shortcut controls.
- Is price the only difference?
- No. Consider the tablet you already own, required cables, drawing applications, latency sensitivity, color accuracy, ergonomics, and how long you draw each day.
Review basis
Any Display details reflect its current published feature scope. Wacom information was checked against the official pages below on August 8, 2026. Prices and configurations vary by country and date.
Limitations to know
- This is not a hands-on review of every Wacom model and accessory.
- Display latency and color depend on the tablet, computer, and connection.
- Any Display does not provide direct WinTab input.
Official sources
- Wacom Cintiq official product information (2026-08-08)
- Wacom pen display store (2026-08-08)