Things to consider when comparing Tablets

Levels of sensitivity: This determines how many levels are between the hardest and softest press of the stylus. It measures how accurately the tablet responds to pressure. The higher the number the better. 2048/1024/512 are current standards. 1024 or more is recommended.
Tilt Sensitivity: This feature allows the tablet to track the 'tilt' of the stylus, allowing for more natural strokes. This is a desired although not deal-breaking feature for the digital artist.
Resolution: Read this regarding resolution.
Stylus: Stylus ergonomics are a personal choice. Some stylus need batteries making them both heavier and more problematic than their battery-less counterparts.

Tablet Manufacturers

Wacom 
The market leader in tablet technology. Due to their small size, Wacoms Bamboo line are not recommended as they promote drawing from the wrist and carpal tunnel.
Purchase a larger lower priced alternative below as opposed to a Bamboo if you are constrained by budget.

Monoprice 
Least expensive of the Wacom alternatives. The Monoprice stylus needs a battery making it heavier than Wacoms offering.

Huion
Another Wacom competitor utilizing a battery in their stylus. Budget-friendly and appealing designs.

Vistablet
Wacom competitor featuring a battery-free stylus. Higher price point than other Wacom competitors.

Yinova 
Another major Wacom alternative specializing in LCD Tablets.

Tablet Reviews

Uberzillas Budget Art Tablet Reviews.
Uberzilla reviews both a Monoprice and Huoin tablet.

Yiynova MSP19U Cintiq Alternative
The Yiynova MSP19U Cintiq Alternative

Tablet Utilities

Tablet Pressure Curve Tool 
This application is designed to improve experience with Wacom tablets. (PC)

PenPressurizer 
This application is designed to improve experience with Wacom tablets. (MAC)

Art creation can be an expensive endeavor. This section will hopefully ease the burden on your wallet.



Glass Palette
• Personally, I use glass as my palette when painting. You can get a inexpensive piece of glass at a flea market or used goods store and purchase a picture frame and harvest the glass from it. Spray the back of the pane with grey primer so as to maintain a visually neutral mixing platform.
• You may want to add some thick tape around the edges to prevent slitting yourself open.
• Cleanup is easy; wipe off the excess paint with a paper towel. You may wait until the residual paint dries then scrape it off with a razor. I have also found that cheap knockoffs of the Clorox White Sponges wipe oil paint away quite well.



Wacom Nib Replacements
• Digitally, Wacom has pens with nibs that conveniently wear out over time. One does not want the added concern of the expense as well as the availability of the nibs. Create your own inexpensive alternative by using .065" Universal Nylon Trimmer wire.
• The wire will not flex nor damage your tablet surface. You may round the edge with sandpaper using a grit that leaves you with a tactile tip you desire.
• One roll of this wire will cost you (sometimes much) less than $10, and give you over 3000 nibs. Wacom sells them at 6 for $12. You do the math.



Blick Coupons
• Blick Art Materials has a recurring 40 percent off Coupon you may apply to a single item. Sign up to become a preferred customer and they will mail you coupons regularly. If you have friends/family willing to help you on your journey have them sign up as well and collect the coupons, using them as needed. Use these for high priced items.