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Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP Review | 66 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£700
Avg. price in US: ~$790
Type: pen tablet
Active drawing area: 140818 mm²
Resolution: N/A
Pen pressure levels: 2048
Report rate: 200 RPS

Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP review. Compare 66 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among drawing tablets and if it is worth buying.

6.7

Good

6.4

Good

9.3

Exceptional

6.3
Kids
Score components:
45.0%
5.7
Weight
45.0%
6.8
Price
10.0%
6.7
Counted score

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#17 in Best Wacom Drawing Tablets
#28 in Best Professional Drawing Tablets
#72 in Best Drawing Tablets
#72 in Best Drawing Tablets For PC
#72 in Best Drawing Tablets With Pen

Verdict

The Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is a high-performance, extra-large graphics tablet designed for creative professionals who require a vast active workspace of 488 x 305 mm (19.2 x 12.0 inches). It features a high resolution of 5,080 lines per inch and a Grip Pen with 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition for natural, nuanced strokes. Key characteristics include eight customizable ExpressKeys with integrated OLED displays that dynamically update to show assigned functions, a multi-functional Touch Ring for zooming and scrolling, and an ambidextrous, reversible design for both right- and left-handed users. Main pros include its massive 'real-estate' for large-format projects, a highly precise tip sensor that activates with just one gram of pressure, and the convenient radial menu for streamlined workflows. However, notable cons include its significant weight (3.5 kg) and bulky footprint that requires substantial desk space, along with the potential for noticeable nib wear and the occasional occurrence of lines appearing on the older OLED key displays over time.

Technical Specifications of Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP

Overall score

6.7

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the drawing tablet.

When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.

Form Factor

4.1

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Type

What it is: Identifies whether the device is a screenless pen tablet or a pen display with its own built-in screen.

When it matters: When you are choosing between a screenless setup and direct on-screen drawing, because the device type changes how you position your hand, eyes, and workspace.

Importance: LOW

pen tablet

Display

What it is: Indicates whether the tablet itself includes an integrated screen instead of relying only on an external monitor.

When it matters: When you are deciding whether you want to draw directly on the tablet instead of looking at a separate monitor.

Importance: LOW

Compatibility

What it is: Shows which operating systems or platforms the tablet officially supports for drivers, software, and core input functions.

When it matters: When you need the tablet to work reliably with your current computer, phone, or creative software environment without driver problems.

Importance: LOW

Windows / macOS

Wireless capability

What it is: Indicates whether the tablet can operate without a constant wired connection to the host device.

When it matters: When you want a cleaner desk, easier repositioning, or more flexibility for mobile use without a permanent cable tether.

Importance: LOW

Weight

What it is: Measures the total mass of the tablet, which affects portability, desk stability, and carrying comfort.

When it matters: When you move the tablet between rooms, carry it in a bag, or want it to feel stable without being cumbersome on the desk.

Importance: LOW

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Display & Color

6.0

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Active drawing area

What it is: Represents the usable surface where pen input is detected for drawing, writing, or navigation.

When it matters: When you want enough working space for broad arm movements, long strokes, or detailed retouching without feeling cramped.

Importance: HIGH

Screen size

What it is: Measures the diagonal size of the built-in display, usually in inches, for pen display models.

When it matters: When you work directly on a pen display and need enough room for menus, canvas space, and hand placement at the same time.

Importance: HIGH

N/A

Resolution

What it is: Shows the total number of display pixels available across the panel and defines image detail.

When it matters: When you want interface elements, brush edges, and artwork details to look clean on a built-in display.

Importance: HIGH

N/A

Pixel density

What it is: Measures how many pixels are packed into each inch of the display, affecting sharpness and fine detail.

When it matters: When you are sensitive to visible pixels while drawing fine lines, reading small text, or checking detailed artwork.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Typical brightness

What it is: Represents the usual screen luminance the display can sustain in normal operation, usually measured in nits.

When it matters: When you work in bright rooms and need the display to remain clearly visible without washing out.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Pen & Input

6.9

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Stylus included

What it is: Indicates whether a compatible drawing pen is included in the box rather than sold separately.

When it matters: When you want to start drawing immediately and avoid paying extra for a compatible pen after buying the tablet.

Importance: HIGH

Pen technology

What it is: Identifies the stylus input technology used, such as EMR, AES, active, or passive implementations.

When it matters: When you compare drawing feel, charging needs, and compatibility between different pen systems.

Importance: HIGH

Pen pressure levels

What it is: Shows how many distinct pressure steps the stylus can register while drawing or writing.

When it matters: When you vary line weight and brush intensity often, because more pressure steps can give finer control over stroke response.

Importance: HIGH

Pen resolution

What it is: Measures the positional precision of the pen input system, commonly expressed in lines per inch.

When it matters: When you need accurate cursor placement for detailed illustration, masking, or careful selection work.

Importance: HIGH

Report rate

What it is: Shows how often the pen position is reported to the system, which influences cursor responsiveness.

When it matters: When you want pen tracking to feel snappy during fast strokes, handwriting, or quick gesture-based work.

Importance: HIGH

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Connectivity

6.5

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Bluetooth connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the tablet supports Bluetooth for wireless connection to compatible devices or accessories.

When it matters: When you want wireless pairing with accessories or a less cable-heavy setup around the tablet.

Importance: LOW

USB 3.2 Gen 2 (USB-C) ports

What it is: Counts the available USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports for high-speed data, charging, or display-related connections.

When it matters: When you want modern high-bandwidth Type-C connections for data, charging, or display-oriented accessories.

Importance: LOW

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USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB-C) ports

What it is: Counts the available USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C ports used for general data, charging, or accessory links.

When it matters: When you need flexible Type-C connectivity for everyday data links, charging, or accessory support.

Importance: LOW

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USB 3.2 Gen 2 (USB-A) ports

What it is: Counts the available USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports for high-speed data transfer and peripheral connection.

When it matters: When you plan to connect fast external storage or peripherals directly and want enough high-speed Type-A ports.

Importance: LOW

?

USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB-A) ports

What it is: Counts the available USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports for standard high-speed peripheral and storage connections.

When it matters: When you still use standard USB-A devices and want enough direct ports without carrying a hub.

Importance: LOW

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Controls & Extras

6.0

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N. of express keys

What it is: Counts the programmable shortcut keys built into the tablet for quick access to commands.

When it matters: When you rely on shortcut-heavy workflows and want more actions accessible on the tablet without reaching for the keyboard.

Importance: LOW

N. of dials

What it is: Counts the physical dials or rotary controls available for shortcuts, zoom, brush size, or similar functions.

When it matters: When you want physical rotary controls for zoom, brush size, timeline scrubbing, or other actions you repeat constantly.

Importance: LOW

Stand included

What it is: Indicates whether a separate stand is included to support the tablet at adjustable working angles.

When it matters: When you want an ergonomic drawing angle right away and do not want to budget for a separate stand after purchase.

Importance: LOW

Fold-out legs

What it is: Indicates whether the tablet has built-in fold-out legs for basic angle adjustment on a desk.

When it matters: When you want a quick built-in way to tilt the tablet without buying a separate stand first.

Importance: LOW

Pen stand included

What it is: Indicates whether a dedicated holder or stand for the stylus is included in the package.

When it matters: When you want the stylus stored safely on the desk instead of rolling around or getting misplaced between sessions.

Importance: LOW

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Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP vs the average drawing tablet

Why is Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP better than the average drawing tablet?

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2 g lower activation force
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP needs less initial activation force than the average drawing tablet (1 g vs 3 g). The average drawing tablet pen needs 3 g of initial activation force.
What it is: Measures how much pressure is needed before the stylus begins to register an input stroke.
When it matters: When you need very light pen contact to register, especially for soft sketching or delicate shading.
Importance: HIGH
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP needs less initial activation force than the average drawing tablet (1 g vs 3 g). The average drawing tablet pen needs 3 g of initial activation force.1 g vs 3 g
100,054 mm² larger work area
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has a larger active drawing area than the average drawing tablet (140,818 mm² vs 40,764 mm²). The average drawing tablet offers an active drawing area of 40,764 mm².
462x304.8 mm.
What it is: Represents the usable surface where pen input is detected for drawing, writing, or navigation.
When it matters: When you want enough working space for broad arm movements, long strokes, or detailed retouching without feeling cramped.
Importance: HIGH
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has a larger active drawing area than the average drawing tablet (140,818 mm² vs 40,764 mm²). The average drawing tablet offers an active drawing area of 40,764 mm².140818 mm² vs 40764 mm²
Has pen eraser
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP includes a pen eraser, while the average drawing tablet does not. 19% of drawing tablets include a pen eraser.
What it is: Indicates whether the stylus includes an eraser function, often on the back end of the pen.
When it matters: When you like flipping the pen over to erase naturally instead of switching tools on screen or with shortcuts.
Importance: LOW
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP includes a pen eraser, while the average drawing tablet does not. 19% of drawing tablets include a pen eraser.
1 m longer cable
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has a longer cable than the average drawing tablet (2.5 m vs 1.5 m). The average drawing tablet has a cable length of 1.5 m.
What it is: Measures the length of the supplied cable used for connection, power, or both.
When it matters: When your computer is not right next to the tablet and you need enough cable slack for a comfortable setup.
Importance: LOW
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has a longer cable than the average drawing tablet (2.5 m vs 1.5 m). The average drawing tablet has a cable length of 1.5 m.2.5 m vs 1.5 m
16.5% higher user score
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has a higher user score than the average drawing tablet (9.32 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the drawing tablet.
When it matters: When you want to know how a drawing tablet performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has a higher user score than the average drawing tablet (9.32 vs 8.000).9.32 vs 8
2 more express keys
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has more express keys than the average drawing tablet (8 vs 6). The average drawing tablet has 6 express keys.
What it is: Counts the programmable shortcut keys built into the tablet for quick access to commands.
When it matters: When you rely on shortcut-heavy workflows and want more actions accessible on the tablet without reaching for the keyboard.
Importance: LOW
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has more express keys than the average drawing tablet (8 vs 6). The average drawing tablet has 6 express keys.8 vs 6
100,054 mm² larger work area
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has a larger active drawing area than the average drawing tablet (140,818 mm² vs 40,764 mm²). The average drawing tablet offers an active drawing area of 40,764 mm².
2 g lower activation force
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP needs less initial activation force than the average drawing tablet (1 g vs 3 g). The average drawing tablet pen needs 3 g of initial activation force.
Has pen eraser
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP includes a pen eraser, while the average drawing tablet does not. 19% of drawing tablets include a pen eraser.
1 m longer cable
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has a longer cable than the average drawing tablet (2.5 m vs 1.5 m). The average drawing tablet has a cable length of 1.5 m.
2 more express keys
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has more express keys than the average drawing tablet (8 vs 6). The average drawing tablet has 6 express keys.

Display & Color

Controls & Extras

Why is Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP worse than the average drawing tablet?

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4.64x heavier design
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is heavier than the average drawing tablet (3,500 g vs 755 g). The average drawing tablet weighs 755 g.
Includes integrated stand.
265.5 mm bulkier body
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is wider than the average drawing tablet (623 mm vs 357.5 mm). The average drawing tablet is 357.5 mm wide.
17.5 mm thicker body
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is thicker than the average drawing tablet (28 mm vs 10.5 mm). The average drawing tablet is 10.5 mm thick.
239 mm taller body
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is taller than the average drawing tablet (462 mm vs 223 mm). The average drawing tablet is 223 mm tall.
Landscape body height.
6,144 lower pen pressure levels
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP supports fewer pen pressure levels than the average drawing tablet (2,048 vs 8,192). The average drawing tablet supports 8,192 pen pressure levels.
35.8% heavier pen
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP includes a heavier pen than the average drawing tablet (18 g vs 13.25 g). The average drawing tablet pen weighs 13.25 g.
14.2% lower report rate
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has a lower report rate than the average drawing tablet (200 RPS vs 233 RPS). The average drawing tablet has a report rate of 233 RPS.
6,144 lower pen pressure levels
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP supports fewer pen pressure levels than the average drawing tablet (2,048 vs 8,192). The average drawing tablet supports 8,192 pen pressure levels.
What it is: Shows how many distinct pressure steps the stylus can register while drawing or writing.
When it matters: When you vary line weight and brush intensity often, because more pressure steps can give finer control over stroke response.
Importance: HIGH
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP supports fewer pen pressure levels than the average drawing tablet (2,048 vs 8,192). The average drawing tablet supports 8,192 pen pressure levels.2,048 vs 8,192
35.8% heavier pen
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP includes a heavier pen than the average drawing tablet (18 g vs 13.25 g). The average drawing tablet pen weighs 13.25 g.
What it is: Measures the mass of the stylus itself, which affects long-session comfort and handling feel.
When it matters: When hand comfort matters during long drawing sessions and you are sensitive to how heavy a stylus feels over time.
Importance: HIGH
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP includes a heavier pen than the average drawing tablet (18 g vs 13.25 g). The average drawing tablet pen weighs 13.25 g.18 g vs 13.25 g
14.2% lower report rate
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has a lower report rate than the average drawing tablet (200 RPS vs 233 RPS). The average drawing tablet has a report rate of 233 RPS.
What it is: Shows how often the pen position is reported to the system, which influences cursor responsiveness.
When it matters: When you want pen tracking to feel snappy during fast strokes, handwriting, or quick gesture-based work.
Importance: HIGH
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP has a lower report rate than the average drawing tablet (200 RPS vs 233 RPS). The average drawing tablet has a report rate of 233 RPS.200 RPS vs 233 RPS
265.5 mm bulkier body
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is wider than the average drawing tablet (623 mm vs 357.5 mm). The average drawing tablet is 357.5 mm wide.
What it is: Measures the tablet body from side to side and helps define the desk space it occupies.
When it matters: When you are checking whether the tablet will physically fit on your desk, beside a keyboard, or inside a carrying sleeve.
Importance: LOW
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is wider than the average drawing tablet (623 mm vs 357.5 mm). The average drawing tablet is 357.5 mm wide.623 mm vs 357.5 mm
4.64x heavier design
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is heavier than the average drawing tablet (3,500 g vs 755 g). The average drawing tablet weighs 755 g.
Includes integrated stand.
What it is: Measures the total mass of the tablet, which affects portability, desk stability, and carrying comfort.
When it matters: When you move the tablet between rooms, carry it in a bag, or want it to feel stable without being cumbersome on the desk.
Importance: LOW
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is heavier than the average drawing tablet (3,500 g vs 755 g). The average drawing tablet weighs 755 g.3500 g vs 755 g
239 mm taller body
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is taller than the average drawing tablet (462 mm vs 223 mm). The average drawing tablet is 223 mm tall.
Landscape body height.
What it is: Measures the tablet body from top to bottom and helps indicate its overall footprint on the desk.
When it matters: When you need to judge how much vertical desk space the tablet will occupy in front of you.
Importance: LOW
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is taller than the average drawing tablet (462 mm vs 223 mm). The average drawing tablet is 223 mm tall.462 mm vs 223 mm
17.5 mm thicker body
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is thicker than the average drawing tablet (28 mm vs 10.5 mm). The average drawing tablet is 10.5 mm thick.
What it is: Describes the front-to-back depth of the tablet body, which affects portability and how slim the device feels.
When it matters: When slimness matters for packing the tablet away, carrying it daily, or keeping the drawing surface low on the desk.
Importance: LOW
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is thicker than the average drawing tablet (28 mm vs 10.5 mm). The average drawing tablet is 10.5 mm thick.28 mm vs 10.5 mm
4.38x more expensive
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is more expensive than the average drawing tablet (£700 vs £160).
Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP is more expensive than the average drawing tablet (£700 vs £160).£700 vs £160

Graphic comparison of Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP?

Expansive active area ideal for large-scale illustrations and shoulder-pivot drawing styles.
Highly customizable with 8 ExpressKeys and a multi-functional Touch Ring for faster workflows.
Excellent pressure sensitivity (2,048 levels) providing a natural, paper-like drawing experience.
Professional-grade build quality that is often described as 'tanky' and durable over many years of use.
Innovative OLED displays next to ExpressKeys that update based on the active application.
Ambidextrous design allows the tablet to be rotated for both left- and right-handed users.

What customers dislike about Wacom Intuos4 XL DTP?

Massive physical footprint requires a dedicated, large desk area and is not portable.
Significant financial investment compared to smaller models or entry-level brands.
Steeper learning curve to fully utilize and master all customizable shortcuts.
Surface texture can cause nibs to wear down quickly, though this can be mitigated with smoother overlays.
Dated connectivity (mini-USB) and potential driver compatibility issues with the latest operating systems.

Expert reviews

cnet.com

24/03/2009

Wacom Intuos4 review: Wacom Intuos4 - CNET

However, the reviewer highlights several design and performance drawbacks, noting that the glossy plastic panel and black pen grip easily track fingerprints and schmutz. The ExpressKeys are tightly packed and lack tactile differentiation, which occasionally forces users to look down to ensure they are pressing the correct button. Performance lags slightly with an occasional pen...Read more

ephotozine.com

16/12/2011

Wacom Intuos 4 Wireless Graphics Tablet Review To help you find more specific technical data, would you like to see driver compatibility for modern op...

The ePHOTOzine review highlights the Wacom Intuos 4 Wireless as a premium tool for professional photo retouching and design, praising its unmatched pen precision, fluid performance, and 10-meter Bluetooth range. Key advantages include customizable ExpressKeys, ambidextrous design, and a natural, paper-like surface texture, making it superior to standard mice for detailed tasks....Read more

essenmitsosse.de

24/08/2009

Wacom Intuos4 Review - essenmitsosse

The Wacom Intuos4 is a highly accurate graphics tablet designed for professional digital painters, offering significant workflow and ergonomic improvements over its predecessor, the Intuos3. Key pros highlighted in the review include an asymmetrical layout with all eight customizable buttons placed on one side, allowing the entire symmetrical device to be rotated 180° for perfect...Read more

stockholmviews.com

Unknown

A wacom intuos 4 review, Pros and cons of the Wacom pen Marcus Blättermann

The Stockholmviews.com review of the Wacom Intuos 4 M graphics tablet highlights it as a highly capable and luxurious tool that significantly boosts precision for intricate image retouching and freehand drawing. The reviewer praises its ergonomic design, near-analog level pressure sensitivity, and highly customizable express buttons and touch ring that can practically replace a...Read more

tomshardware.fr

28/03/2026

Intuos4: Getting started with the new Wacom tablet", "Intuos4: Hands-on with the new Wacom tablet

Overview and Technical Features The Wacom Intuos4 graphic tablet marks a shift towards wide-aspect ratios optimized for modern widescreen displays, utilizing a precise 5080 lpi electromagnetic resonance technology that conveniently powers the stylus without batteries. While the manufacturer abandoned standard paper-size naming conventions (with the tested M model roughly...Read more

tweakers.net

23/07/2026

Wacom Intuos4 Tablet - Hands-On

The Tweakers review of the Wacom Intuos4 Large tablet highlights its premium performance, praising the sleek design, ergonomic pen, and customizable ExpressKeys with integrated OLED displays for dynamic shortcut mapping. The device is lauded for producing natural, fluid strokes suitable for professional digital artists and designers. However, the review notes drawbacks, including a...Read more

photofacts.nl

17/11/2009

Review: Wacom Intuos4 Drawing Tablet

The Wacom Intuos4 Medium is a dedicated graphics tablet featuring an updated design, a widescreen active drawing area slightly wider than A5 size, and customisable physical controls. A major technical highlight is its 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity, doubling the performance of its predecessor to allow for highly precise brush adjustments in editing applications like Photoshop....Read more

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