Today, Wacom released a new version of its top of the line pressure sensitive tablet, the Cintiq 21ux. Among some of the noted improvements is a new tip sensor that captures the slightest pen pressure (as little as one gram of force) allowing for an even more natural feel.
Other improvements include a step up to 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity, a resolution of 5080 lines per inch and a total of 16 customizable ExpressKeys™. It still uses DVI or VGA for video input so there's no option for Mini Display Port.
The finger-sensitive Touch Strips are now mounted on the back bezel of the unit, as opposed to the first generation model where they sometimes got in the way being on the front, that you can easily control zoom, scroll, brush size and canvas rotation.
One of the best improvements in my opinion is that the new model has a textured glass surface as opposed to the scratch prone acrylic of the first generation. It seems that the good folks over at Wacom have read the discussions in their own forums and listened to user feedback. Let's hope that the glass proves to be more durable.
The Grip Pen has been redesigned as well with a new contoured barrel which was designed to minimize grip effort to reduce stress on the hand and wrist and provide a more comfortable feel. Lastly, the new weighted pen stand doubles as a twist-off storage container for storing nibs and the nib removal tool. I can't tell you how many times I've misplaced that thing, so this is a nice little added feature.
Hopefully, all of the new features and advances will migrate down to the 12wx along with the new improved glass surface.
For more information and technical specifications, head on over to Wacom's site so you can start drooling even more.
Related Content
- Wacom Cintiq 12wx Review: Part 1
- Wacom Cintiq 12wx Review: Part 2
- Setting Up Illustrator and Photoshop to Use with a Cintiq
- Create a Set of Pressure Sensitive Inking Brushes for Illustrator
- Review: inklet and Pogo Sketch
About the Author
Brian Rhinehart is a designer and illustrator who has worked in the media and design industry for the past sixteen years. Aside from freelancing and running Illustration Toolbox, he enjoys playing the bass, spicy foods and chasing the cat around the house with squeaky toys.
