XP-PEN Deco 03 review

The XP-PEN Deco 03 graphics tablet still rates in drawing experience, considering its age, and is reasonably priced, too.

XP-PEN Deco 03
(Image: © Ben Brady)

Our Verdict

For a first time buyer, the XP-PEN Deco 03 is a good pick. It leaves a lot to be desired in terms of solidity, but it's a good runner and does the job well. Not only that, it looks pretty good, too, and has a good sized work area.

For

  • Good drawing experience
  • Wireless
  • Excellent entry level tablet

Against

  • Lacking in build quality
  • Shortcut buttons need overhaul
  • Dial not up to scratch

Why you can trust Creative Bloq Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Originally meant as a budget Wacom Intuos, the XP-PEN Deco 03, part of XP-Pen’s mini series, offers a good compromise in terms of size – not too small, nor too big. XP-Pen generally makes graphics tablets and pen displays with a pretty decent drawing experience, and it is quick on the uptake, and consistent when it comes to offering good alternatives to more premium brands. 

The quality in graphics tablets seems to have plateaued somewhat over the past year or two as more focus on the future of pen displays. Though a few years old now, the Deco 03 still looks the part, but does the budget graphics tablet still have a place in today's market? To weigh it up compared to the competition, see our best drawing tablet guide, or the best XP-PEN tablet deals.

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The Verdict
6

out of 10

XP-PEN Deco 03 review

For a first time buyer, the XP-PEN Deco 03 is a good pick. It leaves a lot to be desired in terms of solidity, but it's a good runner and does the job well. Not only that, it looks pretty good, too, and has a good sized work area.

Ben is an artist and illustrator based in Bristol. He works in traditional woodcut, drawing and digital mediums. For Creative Bloq, he reviews drawing tablets and styluses, as well as the latest and greatest digital software for artists. His artwork has been exhibited across Bristol, and his words have also appeared in ImagineFX magazine. 

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