Recently joined and saw this thread. I'm sure you've already picked one by now islandmom, but if not, I would recommend you get the Intuos. It is well worth the investment when you consider that the tablet will last for years and years and go with you from computer to computer. The 6 x 8 vs. the smaller size DOES make a difference - and as thepals said, the Intuos has more options. My DH is more blunt - he says the Graphire is a toy and the Intuos is a tool (but he's a graphic artist, so he thinks along different lines). My opinion is that you are limiting your growth with the Graphire. (We each have an Intuos, btw).

HTH

How much is the Intuos vs. Graphire now? My dh bought the Graphire years ago, I think it's gen 1, LOL! And I haven't outgrown it yet, I just don't use it as much as I ought.

I figure when I get into it, designing as a "real" job instead of the freelancing I do now, the technology will have evolved that I'll want something new and better.

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Emma the Pal
GALLERY Web Page

I *think* the price difference is usually around $100 for comparable sizes. We use ours for most everything (not just graphics). I didn't use mine much at first (resistant to change ), but I was converted and now I can't believe I ever tried using Photoshop with a mouse!

The cost is about $100 difference. I have decided to go with the Intuos, just because I do not want to outgrow it like I have other things I have spent money on . I am now just waiting for Wacom to get the Intuos3 back in stock. Thanks to everyone in posting your opinions and suggestions!

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Check out my gallery.
MY BLOG

Couple of things... if you go to the Wacom site they have a quick questionnaire about what you do and how much and will make a recommendation. They also have side by side comparisons including pricing. You can also use Froogle Google to get ideas about the pricing once you've decided which tablet makes sense for your use.

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Susan
Outer Banks Foto Art

the intous had more pressure points than the graphire,I think that it makes it draw smoother than the graphire but I could be wrong.

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Becky's Blog.

You are correct.. both are good pads.. just go with the cheaper one and you'll be set.

ok, i did it! i got myself one of these tablet things and i am having a blast! I was worried i'd have a hard time getting used to this thing but i'm finding it pretty simple! Yay!

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"If little else, the brain is an educational toy...The problem with posessing such an engaging toy is that other people want to play with it, too. Sometimes they would rather play with yours than theirs." -Tom Robbins, Even Cowgirls Get the Blues