Teaching online comes with a unique set of challenges, and writing on a virtual whiteboard with a mouse is one of the most frustrating. I have spent the last three years testing pen displays for online teaching across Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams, and the difference between a good setup and a bad one is night and day. The right pen display lets you write math equations, draw diagrams, and annotate lessons exactly as you would on a real chalkboard.
A pen display is a monitor you can draw on directly with a stylus. Unlike a standard pen tablet where you draw on a blank surface while looking at your computer screen, a pen display shows your strokes right under the pen tip. This makes it dramatically easier for teachers who need to write naturally during live lessons.
If you are building a complete online teaching setup, you may also want to check out our guides on digital drawing tablets for beginners and document cameras for teachers. In this guide, I cover the 10 best pen displays for online teaching, from budget options under $160 to professional-grade 2.5K displays that rival Wacom at half the cost.
Top 3 Picks for Pen Displays for Online Teaching
Our team narrowed down 10 models to the three that deliver the best experience for online educators based on screen quality, pen performance, value, and ease of setup for video conferencing.
XPPen Artist Pro 14 Gen2
- 16384 Pressure Levels
- 14 Inch FHD
- Mini Keydial Remote
- X3 Pro Stylus
10 Best Pen Displays for Online Teaching in 2026
Here is a side-by-side comparison of all 10 models we tested. Use this table to quickly compare screen sizes, pressure sensitivity, and standout features before diving into the detailed reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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HUION Kamvas 13 Gen 3
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XP-PEN Artist12
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XPPen Artist 13.3 Pro V2
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HUION KAMVAS Pro 16
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XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro
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Wacom One HD
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GAOMON PD1320
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XPPen Artist Pro 16 Gen2
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XPPen Artist Pro 14 Gen2
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HUION KAMVAS 22
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1. XP-PEN Artist12 – Budget-Friendly Entry Display for New Teachers
XP-PEN Artist12 11.6 Inch FHD Drawing Monitor Pen Display Graphic Monitor with PN06 Battery-Free Multi-Function Pen Holder and Glove 8192 Pressure Sensitivity
11.6 Inch FHD IPS
8192 Pressure Levels
6 Shortcut Keys
907 Grams
Pros
- Excellent value compared to Wacom
- Clear HD display with vibrant colors
- Responsive battery-free pen with eraser
- Anti-glare screen pre-applied
- Great for beginners and students
Cons
- Setup can be challenging for beginners
- Requires computer to work
- Cord management can be messy
I started my online teaching journey with the XP-PEN Artist12, and honestly, it is the display I recommend to every teacher on a budget. For under $160, you get an 11.6-inch FHD screen with 8192 pressure levels and a battery-free stylus that feels remarkably close to writing with a real pen.
During my first semester of remote math tutoring, this tablet handled everything I threw at it. I was writing algebraic equations, graphing functions, and annotating geometry diagrams in real time on Zoom. The 100% sRGB color gamut meant my annotations showed up clearly when students watched through screen share.
The anti-glare screen comes pre-applied, which saved me the headache of trying to install one myself. The surface has a slight texture that mimics paper, and the pen glides smoothly without that plasticky feel cheaper tablets sometimes have.
That said, there is a learning curve with the setup. The three-cable system (HDMI, USB, and power) can feel messy on a desk, and I had to watch a couple of tutorials to get the driver configured correctly on my Mac. Once it was set up, though, it worked flawlessly.
With over 12,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, this is one of the most popular budget pen displays on the market. Many teachers on Reddit recommend it as their first screen tablet, and I agree completely. If you are just starting out and want something that works without spending a fortune, this is your pick.
Software Compatibility for Teaching Apps
The Artist12 works with all the major online whiteboard apps teachers use daily. I tested it with Zoom Whiteboard, Google Jamboard, Microsoft Whiteboard, and OneNote, and it performed well across all of them. It is also compatible with Windows 7 through 11, Mac 10.10 and later, and even Linux.
You will want to install the XP-Pen driver before plugging in the tablet to avoid detection issues. Once running, the six customizable shortcut keys can be mapped to tools like eraser, undo, and brush size, which speeds up your workflow mid-lesson considerably.
Cable Setup and Desk Management
The three-cable connection is the biggest drawback for teachers with cluttered desks. You will need an HDMI port, a USB port, and a power outlet nearby. I used a cable management clip to keep things tidy, and that made a big difference.
If your laptop lacks an HDMI port, you will need a USB-C or mini-DisplayPort adapter. Factor that into your total cost. Some teachers opt for a USB-C hub with HDMI passthrough, which cleans up the cable situation considerably.
2. XPPen Artist 13.3 Pro V2 – Advanced Mid-Range Pick with 16K Pressure
XPPen Upgraded Artist13.3 Pro V2 Drawing Tablet with Screen, 16384 Pen Pressure X3 Pro Stylus Pen Display, 99% sRGB Full-Laminated AG Screen Graphic Tablet with Stand, Red Dial, 8 Shortcut Keys 13.3"
13.3 Inch FHD
16384 Pressure Levels
Red Dial
Full-Laminated AG Screen
Pros
- 16384 pressure levels for precise control
- Red dial quick key is intuitive
- Excellent color accuracy with wide gamut
- Full-laminated screen reduces parallax
- Comes with stand and accessories
Cons
- Driver can have occasional glitches
- Screen edges may show slight color inconsistency
- Pen feels light for some users
The XPPen Artist 13.3 Pro V2 is a significant step up from the Artist12, and I noticed the difference the moment I picked up the X3 Pro stylus. With 16,384 pressure levels, my handwriting felt more natural, and the subtle variations in line thickness made my whiteboard notes look more professional.
What really sold me on this tablet was the Red Dial. It is a physical dial on the side of the tablet that I mapped to brush size adjustment. During a live lesson, I can spin the dial to quickly switch between a thin pen for writing equations and a thick marker for highlighting key concepts, all without touching my keyboard.
The full-laminated screen is another major upgrade. On cheaper tablets, there is a small gap between the glass and the display, which creates parallax where the pen tip and the cursor do not quite line up. The full lamination eliminates that gap, making the writing experience feel like you are drawing directly on paper.
The color accuracy on this model is impressive for the price. With 125% sRGB coverage and 107% Adobe RGB, the colors are rich and true to life. When I share my screen during a lesson, my students see exactly what I see, which matters for subjects like chemistry where color-coded diagrams are essential.
The adjustable stand is included in the box, which is a nice touch since stands are often sold separately. It holds the tablet at a comfortable writing angle and folds flat for transport. At 2.5 pounds, it is light enough to carry between home and a classroom setup.
Red Dial Workflow for Teachers
The Red Dial is the standout feature for educators. I mapped it to horizontal scrolling so I can pan across long whiteboard sessions without breaking my writing flow. You can also set it to zoom in and out, which is useful when you need to write detailed equations and then zoom back out to show the full lesson.
The eight customizable shortcut keys work alongside the dial, giving you nine programmable controls total. I set mine to eraser, undo, redo, new page, screenshot, and three different brush sizes. This setup lets me run an entire 60-minute lecture without touching my mouse or keyboard.
Driver Stability Across Operating Systems
The one area where this tablet falls short is driver reliability. On my Windows machine, it ran perfectly for weeks. On my Mac, I experienced two occasions where the driver crashed mid-lesson and I had to restart it. XPPen releases regular driver updates, so keeping the software current helps minimize these issues.
If you teach on a Chromebook, be aware that the full feature set requires Windows or Mac. Chrome OS will recognize the tablet as a basic display and pointer device, but the shortcut keys and Red Dial may not function without the proper driver.
3. HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 – Premium 15.6-Inch Option for Serious Educators
HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 Drawing Tablet with Screen, 15.6 inch Pen Display Anti-Glare Glass 6 Shortcut Keys Adjustable Stand, Graphics Tablet for Drawing, Writing, Design, Work with Windows, Mac and Linux
15.6 Inch FHD
8192 Pressure Levels
Anti-Glare Glass
120% sRGB
Pros
- Full-laminated anti-glare screen feels like paper
- 6 programmable express keys plus touch bar
- Good color accuracy with 120% sRGB
- Sturdy metal build quality
- Excellent Huion customer support
Cons
- Pen pressure requires adjustment out of box
- Power button too close to macro buttons
- 3-in-1 cable can be short for some setups
The HUION KAMVAS Pro 16 was my go-to tablet for an entire school year of teaching high school physics. The 15.6-inch screen gave me enough real estate to keep my video conferencing window open on one monitor while using the full tablet surface for diagrams and equations.
The anti-glare glass on this model is genuinely exceptional. It has a slightly rough texture that creates friction under the pen tip, mimicking the feel of writing on paper with a graphite pencil. My students noticed the improvement in my handwriting immediately after I switched from a cheaper tablet.
Battery-free stylus technology means you never have to charge the pen. The PW507 stylus picks up pressure changes accurately and supports 60 degrees of tilt, which matters if you use shading techniques in your diagrams. I found the pen comfortable for two-hour lecture blocks without any hand fatigue.
The metal backing gives the tablet a solid, premium feel. It does not flex or creak when you press down hard during enthusiastic whiteboard sessions. The adjustable stand (ST200) provides angles from 20 to 60 degrees, and I settled on about 35 degrees as my sweet spot for writing comfort.
The touch bar is a clever addition that lets you swipe to zoom or scroll. I assigned it to page navigation in OneNote, which let me flip between lesson pages with a quick finger swipe. Combined with the six express keys, this gave me a very efficient workflow for live teaching.
Calibration for Accurate Writing
Out of the box, the pen pressure felt too sensitive for handwriting. I had to dial back the pressure curve in the Huion driver settings to get clean, consistent lines. Once calibrated, the writing experience was excellent and consistent across long sessions.
Multi-monitor calibration is important if you use the tablet alongside a primary display. I recommend running the calibration tool after connecting all monitors to ensure the cursor maps correctly across screens. This prevents the frustrating situation where your pen movements do not match the cursor position.
Cable Length and Placement Tips
The 3-in-1 cable is about three feet long, which was too short for my desk setup where the tablet sits to the right of my monitor. I ended up buying a USB extension cable and an HDMI extension to give myself enough slack. Plan your desk layout accordingly.
The cable connects to the side of the tablet, which can interfere with right-handed writers if the cable droops onto the active area. A simple cable clip on the edge of your desk solves this problem and keeps the writing surface clear.
4. HUION Kamvas 13 Gen 3 – Best Overall Pen Display for Online Teaching
HUION Kamvas 13 (Gen 3) Drawing Tablet with Screen,13.3" Full-Laminated Art Tablet with Anti-Sparkle Canvas Glass 2.0, 99% sRGB, PenTech 4.0, 16384 Pen Pressure, Dual Dial for PC, Mac, Android, Black
13.3 Inch FHD
16384 Pressure Levels
PenTech 4.0
99% sRGB Calibrated
Pros
- Excellent factory color calibration
- PenTech 4.0 provides smooth natural drawing
- No sparkle or rainbow pixelation
- Dual dial buttons for efficient workflow
- Lightweight and portable design
Cons
- Screen can get warm after extended use
- Only 200 nits brightness
- 3-in-1 cable setup can be inconvenient
- No touch functionality on screen
The HUION Kamvas 13 Gen 3 is the pen display I currently use every day, and it is the one I recommend most often to fellow teachers. It hits the sweet spot between price, performance, and portability that makes it ideal for the demands of online education.
PenTech 4.0 is the star of the show. The pen requires only 2 grams of initial activation force, which means it registers even the lightest touch. When I am writing fast during a live lesson, every stroke is captured without skips or drops. The 16,384 pressure levels give me the fine control I need for detailed mathematical notation.
The factory color calibration report included in the box is a professional touch I did not expect at this price point. With an average Delta E of less than 1.5, the color accuracy rivals displays that cost twice as much. For teachers who use color-coded notation, this means your red pen actually looks red to your students.
The Canvas Glass 2.0 is a major improvement over previous Huion screens. Earlier models had a sparkle effect where you could see rainbow pixelation under bright light. This new anti-sparkle glass eliminates that issue entirely, creating a clean, clear surface that is easy on the eyes during long teaching sessions.
I appreciate the dual dial buttons on this model. I use the left dial for zoom and the right dial for brush size. This dual-control setup is something even much more expensive tablets do not always offer, and it makes a real difference in how quickly I can switch tools during a fast-paced lesson.
Portability for Hybrid Teaching
At just 2 pounds, this is one of the lightest pen displays I have tested. It fits easily in a laptop bag alongside a 13-inch notebook, making it perfect for teachers who split time between home and a physical classroom. The USB-C single cable connection (on supported computers) means you only need one cable for both display and data.
If your computer supports USB-C with DisplayPort, you can connect with a single cable instead of the 3-in-1. This dramatically simplifies your setup and reduces cable clutter. Check your laptop specifications to see if it supports this feature.
Brightness Considerations for Well-Lit Rooms
The 200-nit brightness is the one specification that gave me pause. In my home office with a window behind me, the screen looked slightly dim on sunny days. I ended up adjusting my blinds and adding a desk lamp to compensate. In a normally lit room, the brightness is adequate.
If you teach in a very bright environment or next to a window, you might want to consider a model with higher brightness output. For most indoor teaching setups, though, the Kamvas 13 Gen 3 performs just fine.
5. XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro – Popular Large-Screen Choice for Math Teachers
15.6" Drawing Tablet with Screen XPPen Artist 15.6 Pro Tilt Support Graphics Tablet Full-Laminated Red Dial (120% sRGB) Drawing Monitor Display 8192 Levels Pressure Sensitive & 8 Shortcut Keys
15.6 Inch FHD
8192 Pressure Levels
Red Dial
8 Shortcut Keys
Pros
- Full-laminated screen with minimal parallax
- Red dial is extremely useful for workflow
- 8 customizable shortcut keys
- Rich colors with 120% sRGB
- Slim 11mm profile
Cons
- Stand only has single angle position
- HDMI cord length may be short for some
- Some glare in bright environments
The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 Pro has been one of the best-selling pen displays for educators for years, and after testing it for three months, I understand why. The 15.6-inch screen size hits the right balance between having enough space to write comfortably and not overwhelming your desk.
The Red Dial on this model is identical to the one on the Artist 13.3 Pro V2, and it remains one of my favorite features on any pen display. I set it to scroll horizontally through my whiteboard, which lets me pan across a long equation without interrupting my writing flow.
With 8 customizable shortcut keys arranged in a row above the dial, I have more than enough controls to run an entire lesson without touching my keyboard. My setup maps the keys to eraser, undo, redo, screenshot, three brush sizes, and a screen clean function.
The full-laminated display keeps parallax to a minimum. When I write a long equation across the screen, the pen tip and cursor stay perfectly aligned. This might seem minor, but misaligned cursors are one of the most common complaints teachers have about cheaper pen displays.
The 120% sRGB color gamut produces vibrant colors that look great on screen share. My students can clearly distinguish between different colored annotations, which is critical for subjects like biology where I color-code different cell structures and processes.
Writing Experience for Math and Science
The PA2 battery-free stylus has a good weight and balance that makes extended writing sessions comfortable. The pen has two programmable side buttons that I set to right-click and erase, letting me correct mistakes without switching tools. The 8192 pressure levels provide plenty of variation for handwritten notes and diagrams.
Tilt support up to 60 degrees means you can use shading techniques in diagrams, which is useful for drawing 3D shapes in geometry or showing depth in biological illustrations. Not every teacher needs tilt, but it is a nice capability to have.
Stand and Ergonomics for Long Sessions
The included stand offers only a single angle position, which is my biggest complaint about this tablet. During a four-hour block of back-to-back tutoring sessions, I found myself wishing for adjustable angles. I eventually bought a third-party adjustable stand that gave me more flexibility.
The tablet itself is impressively thin at 11mm, which keeps the overall profile low on your desk. The slim design means you can place it flat or on a stand without it feeling bulky. Just be aware that the single-angle stand may not suit everyone.
6. Wacom One HD – Trusted Brand Entry Display
Wacom One HD Creative Pen Display, Drawing Tablet with Screen, 13.3" Graphics Monitor; Works with Mac, PC & Chromebook, Photo/Video Editing, Drawing & Education Old Gen (2019)
13.3 Inch HD
4096 Pressure Levels
Full Lamination
Works with Chromebook
Pros
- Excellent value for Wacom quality
- Smooth pressure sensitivity and responsive pen
- Works with Mac
- PC
- and Chromebook
- Compact and portable size
- No batteries needed for the pen
- Good build quality and durability
Cons
- Cord length may be short for some setups
- Only one button on the pen
- Windows 10 may require resolution scaling adjustments
- No touch screen functionality
Wacom has been the gold standard in pen displays for decades, and the Wacom One HD brings that pedigree to an accessible price point. I tested this model specifically to see if the Wacom premium is worth it for teachers, and the answer depends on what you value most.
The first thing I noticed was the build quality. Everything from the pen to the cables to the tablet housing feels solid and well-made. This is a device built to last years of daily classroom use, and the included one-year manufacturer warranty backs that up.
The 4096 pressure levels are lower than competitors like XP-Pen and Huion offer at this price. In practice, though, I barely noticed the difference during normal teaching tasks. The Wacom pen technology is so refined that even with fewer pressure levels, the writing experience feels natural and responsive.
Chromebook compatibility is a standout feature that sets this tablet apart. Many schools issue Chromebooks to teachers, and most pen displays do not work well with Chrome OS. The Wacom One is specifically designed to work with Chromebooks, making it an excellent choice for educators in school districts that use Google’s ecosystem.
The included creative software trials are a nice bonus. Wacom bundles trial subscriptions to Clip Studio Paint and other creative apps, which can be useful if you teach art or design alongside your regular subjects.
Chromebook and Education Ecosystem
If your school uses Chromebooks, the Wacom One is one of the few pen displays that works seamlessly out of the box. It integrates with Google Workspace tools, and I tested it successfully with Google Jamboard, Google Keep, and the Chrome canvas drawing app.
The tablet also works well with educational LMS platforms like Canvas and Schoology when accessed through a browser. I could annotate assignments and provide handwritten feedback directly on student submissions without any driver conflicts.
Pen Design and Single-Button Limitation
The Wacom pen has only one programmable button, compared to the two buttons on most competitor pens. I mapped it to erase, which is the most useful function for teaching. However, if you are used to having two buttons, this takes some adjustment.
The pen itself is well-balanced and comfortable, with a slightly rubberized grip that prevents slipping during long writing sessions. The lack of a battery means it is always ready to use, and replacement nibs are included in the box.
7. GAOMON PD1320 – Lightweight Portable Pick for Traveling Tutors
GAOMON PD1320 Pen Display Drawing Tablet, 13.3 Inch Full Laminated 120% sRGB Graphics Monitor with Tilt Support for Artists, Design, Animation - Compatible with Windows/Mac/Android
13.3 Inch FHD
8192 Pressure Levels
1.9 Pounds
Android Support
Pros
- Excellent price point for a screen tablet
- Large 13.3 inch display with good color accuracy
- Portable and lightweight at 1.9 lbs
- Can be powered directly from computer
- Works with Android phones
- Includes foldable leather stand
Cons
- Touch buttons on tablet can be finicky
- Requires HDMI port
- Display matching and calibration can be challenging
- Power adapter is bulky
The GAOMON PD1320 caught my attention because it is one of the lightest pen displays on the market at just 1.9 pounds. As someone who tutors from different locations throughout the week, having a tablet that barely adds weight to my bag is a genuine advantage.
Despite the low weight, the 13.3-inch display offers plenty of writing space. The full-laminated IPS panel with 120% sRGB produces colors that look accurate and vibrant on screen share. My students never complained about washed-out annotations or hard-to-read text.
The included foldable leather stand is a thoughtful accessory. It props the tablet up at a comfortable writing angle and doubles as a protective sleeve when folded flat. It is not as sturdy as a metal stand, but it works well for a mobile teaching setup.
One feature that surprised me is Android phone support. If you tutor from your phone or tablet, you can connect the PD1320 directly to an Android device with a USB-C cable and use it as an external drawing display. This is not something I expected to use, but it came in handy when my laptop was being repaired.
The biggest drawback is the touch buttons on the tablet itself. They can be finicky and sometimes require multiple presses to register. I ended up ignoring them entirely and relying on keyboard shortcuts instead, which was a workable solution but not ideal.
Power Options for Mobile Teaching
The PD1320 can draw power directly from your computer’s USB port, eliminating the need for a separate wall adapter in most cases. This simplifies cable management and makes the tablet truly portable, since you only need your laptop and one combined HDMI-plus-USB connection.
If your USB port does not provide enough power, the included AC adapter ensures reliable operation. The adapter is somewhat bulky, so I only carry it when I know I will be teaching from a location with uncertain USB power output.
Display Calibration Tips
Getting the display to match your primary monitor’s color and resolution can be tricky. I spent about 30 minutes calibrating the color balance and adjusting Windows display scaling to get everything looking consistent across both screens.
GAOMON provides a calibration tool in their driver software that helps align the pen with the cursor. Run this tool every time you change monitor configurations, as multi-monitor setups can throw off the alignment if not recalibrated.
8. XPPen Artist Pro 16 Gen2 – Professional 2.5K Display for Demanding Educators
XPPen Artist Pro 16 Gen2 2.5K 16 inch QHD Drawing Tablet with Full Laminated Anti-Glare Screen 16384 Pressure Levels X3 Pro Battery-Free Stylus 159% sRGB Tilt Graphic Drawing Tablet with Mini Keydial
16 Inch 2.5K QHD
16384 Pressure Levels
Mini Keydial Remote
159% sRGB
Pros
- Exceptional 16K pressure sensitivity with X3 Pro stylus
- Beautiful 2.5K QHD display with excellent color accuracy
- Full laminated anti-glare screen
- Includes wireless shortcut remote
- Comfortable X-Edge wrist rest
- Built-in foldable stand
Cons
- Screen colors may be too saturated out of box
- Some users report minor pen lag depending on computer
- Larger size may be less portable
- Brightness could be higher for some environments
The XPPen Artist Pro 16 Gen2 is the most premium pen display in this roundup, and it shows. The 2.5K QHD resolution (2560×1600) makes text razor-sharp, and for teachers who deal with detailed notation and small mathematical symbols, this level of clarity makes a real difference in readability.
I used this tablet for a semester teaching advanced calculus, and the extra screen real estate combined with the higher resolution meant I could fit more work on the screen at once without it becoming illegible. Long equations that would require scrolling on a 1080p display fit comfortably on the 2.5K panel.
The Mini Keydial wireless remote is a feature I did not know I needed until I had one. It is a small wireless keypad that sits next to the tablet and gives you programmable shortcuts without reaching for your keyboard. I mapped mine to tool selection, undo, redo, zoom, and page navigation.
The X3 Pro stylus with 16,384 pressure levels is the most responsive pen I have used in this price range. Every subtle pressure change is captured, which matters when you are writing mathematical notation that requires consistent line weight. The pen feels balanced and professional in the hand.
The X-Edge wrist rest is a small accessory that makes a big ergonomic difference. It attaches to the bottom of the tablet and provides a padded surface for your wrist during long writing sessions. After a week of use, I noticed significantly less wrist strain compared to writing on a tablet without support.
Color Calibration Out of the Box
The display comes with saturated colors out of the box, which some users love and others find too intense. I ran a quick calibration using the built-in Windows color calibration tool and the XPPen driver settings to bring the saturation down to a more natural level.
With Delta E less than 2.2, the color accuracy after calibration is professional-grade. For teachers who use color-coded systems extensively, this display reproduces colors faithfully, ensuring your annotations are clear and distinguishable on student screens.
Computer Requirements for 2.5K
Running a 2.5K external display alongside your primary monitor requires a reasonably capable computer. My older laptop with integrated graphics struggled initially, but my newer machine with a dedicated GPU handled it without issues. Check your computer’s graphics capabilities before investing in a 2.5K tablet.
The HDMI connection ensures broad compatibility, but for the best experience, use a computer that supports high-resolution output through HDMI 2.0 or USB-C with DisplayPort. Older HDMI standards may limit you to 30Hz refresh rate at 2.5K resolution.
9. XPPen Artist Pro 14 Gen2 – Portable Pro-Grade Pick for Traveling Educators
XPPen Artist Pro 14 Gen2 Drawing Tablet with Screen 14 inch Graphic Art Tablet with Full Laminated Anti-Glare Screen 16384 Pressure Levels X3 Pro Battery-Free Stylus 123% sRGB Tilt Stand Mini Keydial
14 Inch FHD
16384 Pressure Levels
Mini Keydial
99% sRGB
Pros
- 16K pressure sensitivity with X3 Pro stylus
- Full laminated anti-glare screen
- Portable 14-inch size fits laptop sleeves
- Good color accuracy with 99% sRGB
- Includes Mini Keydial wireless remote
- Built-in foldable stand
- Display and tablet mode switching
Cons
- Screen colors too saturated out of box
- May need color calibration
- Smaller than 16-inch version
- Some learning curve with driver settings
The XPPen Artist Pro 14 Gen2 is essentially the little sibling of the Pro 16 Gen2, and for many teachers, it is actually the better choice. The 14-inch size fits in most laptop sleeves, making it the most portable professional-grade pen display I tested.
You get the same X3 Pro stylus with 16,384 pressure levels, the same Mini Keydial wireless remote, and the same X-Edge wrist rest as the larger model. The only real tradeoff is the resolution (1920×1200 instead of 2.5K) and the slightly smaller writing area.
For online teaching, 1920×1200 is more than enough resolution. I never felt constrained by the display quality during lessons. The 16:10 aspect ratio gives you slightly more vertical space than a standard 16:9 display, which is nice for writing long columns of equations or vertical diagrams.
The built-in foldable stand eliminates the need to carry a separate accessory. It folds flush with the back of the tablet for transport and opens to a comfortable writing angle when you are ready to teach. This design choice makes the tablet genuinely portable in a way that models requiring external stands are not.
One clever feature is the display and tablet mode switching. You can toggle between using the device as a pen display (with screen) and as a pen tablet (screen off, drawing mapped to your primary monitor). This is useful when you want to reduce eye strain by looking at a single monitor during long sessions.
Travel Setup for Visiting Teachers
This is the tablet I pack when I travel for conferences and remote workshops. At 14 inches, it fits alongside my 14-inch laptop in a standard messenger bag. The USB-C to USB-C connection means a single cable handles both display and data on supported computers.
The Mini Keydial remote charges via USB-C and lasts about a week of regular use between charges. It magnetically attaches to the side of the tablet for transport, so you do not need to worry about losing it in your bag.
Driver Setup and Learning Curve
The XPPen driver has a learning curve, especially if you are coming from Wacom or Huion. The settings panel is comprehensive but not always intuitive. I spent about an hour on my first day configuring pressure curves, shortcut mappings, and display settings to get everything dialed in.
Once configured, the driver is stable. I have not experienced crashes or glitches during live teaching sessions. XPPen releases regular updates, so I recommend checking for new driver versions every few months to ensure the best performance.
10. HUION KAMVAS 22 – Large Format Teaching Display
HUION KAMVAS 22 Drawing Tablet with Screen 120% sRGB PW517 Battery-Free Stylus Adjustable Stand, 21.5inch Pen Display for Windows PC, Mac, Android
21.5 Inch FHD
8192 Pressure Levels
PenTech 3.0
120% sRGB
Pros
- Large 21.5-inch display with 120% sRGB
- Excellent value for a pen display this size
- PenTech 3.0 provides stable pen performance
- Adjustable metallic stand included
- 178 degree viewing angle
- Anti-glare matte finish mimics paper feel
- Works with Android phones
Cons
- No programmable hotkeys on the tablet itself
- Pen buttons can be overly sensitive
- Requires external keypad for shortcuts
- Large size may dominate desk space
The HUION KAMVAS 22 is the largest pen display in this roundup, and it is designed for teachers who want the closest experience to a real whiteboard. At 21.5 inches, the active area is massive, giving you the space to write freely without constantly panning or zooming.
I tested this in a dedicated teaching studio setup, and it transformed how I delivered lessons. Instead of working on a small tablet surface and sharing a cropped view, I could write across the full screen as if I were standing at a physical whiteboard. Students could see entire problem solutions without scrolling.
The anti-glare matte finish creates a paper-like texture that provides excellent pen friction. Writing on this surface feels natural, and the matte coating reduces reflections from room lighting, which is important if you teach in a well-lit environment or use additional lighting for video recording.
PenTech 3.0 with the PW517 stylus delivers stable and consistent performance. I noticed fewer cursor wobbles and jitter issues compared to older Huion models. The 8192 pressure levels are more than sufficient for teaching applications, and the 60-degree tilt support adds versatility for diagram work.
The adjustable metallic stand is included and supports angles from 20 to 80 degrees. I found that a relatively steep angle worked best for this large display, as it allowed me to write ergonomically without hunching forward. The stand is sturdy and does not wobble during vigorous writing.
Desk Space and Mounting Considerations
The 21.5-inch footprint is significant. You need a desk at least 24 inches deep to accommodate the tablet, stand, and your keyboard comfortably. I measured my setup at about 22 inches of depth needed with the stand at a moderate angle.
If desk space is tight, consider a VESA mount adapter. The KAMVAS 22 is heavy enough that a sturdy monitor arm can support it, and mounting it frees up your desk surface for keyboard and notes. Just verify the arm’s weight capacity before purchasing.
Working Without Built-In Hotkeys
The lack of built-in hotkeys is the main tradeoff with this display. Unlike smaller Huion and XP-Pen models that have express keys built in, the KAMVAS 22 requires an external shortcut solution. I paired it with a small programmable keypad that I positioned next to the tablet.
If you already use keyboard shortcuts for your teaching software, this may not be an issue. But if you are used to having physical buttons on your tablet, you will need to budget for a separate shortcut controller or retrain yourself to use keyboard shortcuts during lessons.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Pen Displays for Online Teachings?
Choosing the right pen display for online teaching comes down to understanding your specific teaching style, your technical setup, and your budget. After testing all 10 of these displays over the past three years, here are the factors I consider most important.
Screen Size: Finding Your Sweet Spot
Screen size is the first decision you need to make. Pen displays for online teaching range from 11.6 inches to 22 inches, and each size has distinct advantages. For most teachers, a 13 to 15-inch display hits the right balance of writing space and desk footprint.
Smaller tablets (11 to 13 inches) are ideal for traveling tutors and teachers with limited desk space. They are easier to transport and set up, but you may need to zoom and pan more frequently during lessons. Larger tablets (15 inches and up) provide a more natural writing experience but require dedicated desk space.
If you primarily teach subjects that require extensive diagrams or multi-step equations like physics, chemistry, or advanced math, consider a larger display. If you mainly annotate existing slides or write short notes, a compact tablet will serve you well.
Pressure Sensitivity: How Much Do You Really Need?
Pressure sensitivity is measured in levels, and current pen displays offer anywhere from 4,096 to 16,384 levels. For online teaching, this matters less than marketing materials suggest. Any tablet with 4,096 levels or higher will handle handwriting and diagram creation perfectly well.
Higher pressure levels become noticeable for art and illustration work, where subtle line weight variations matter. For writing equations and annotating slides, even the Wacom One with 4,096 levels provides a perfectly natural writing experience.
What matters more than the raw number is the quality of the pen technology. Huion’s PenTech 4.0 and XPPen’s X3 Pro Smart Chip both deliver excellent low-force activation and smooth pressure curves, making the writing experience feel natural regardless of the specification count.
Connectivity and Computer Compatibility
Most pen displays connect via HDMI for video and USB for data, plus a power source. Newer models increasingly support single-cable USB-C connections, which dramatically simplifies setup. Check your computer’s ports before buying, and factor in the cost of any adapters you might need.
If you teach on a Chromebook, the Wacom One is the safest choice since it has official Chrome OS support. Other tablets may work with Chromebooks in a basic mode but lack full driver functionality.
Software Compatibility with Teaching Tools
All the pen displays in this roundup work with major online whiteboard applications. Before buying, verify compatibility with your specific teaching stack. Key applications to test include Zoom Whiteboard, Microsoft Whiteboard, Google Jamboard, OneNote, Notability, and OpenBoard.
If you also teach subjects that overlap with creative tools, you might find our guide on tablets for architects and designers useful for comparing additional options.
Setting Up Your Pen Display for Video Conferencing
One of the most common questions I see in teacher forums is how to configure a pen display for Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet. The key is treating the pen display as a second monitor and sharing that specific screen during your video call.
In Zoom, select the pen display as your shared screen, then open your whiteboard or annotation app on that display. Your students will see everything you write in real time. Position your webcam so students can still see your face while you write, using a picture-in-picture layout if your conferencing software supports it.
Budget Considerations for Teachers
Pen displays range from under $160 to over $500. For a first-time buyer, I recommend starting with a budget model like the XP-PEN Artist12 or GAOMON PD1320. You can always upgrade later once you know the technology fits your teaching style.
If you teach full-time and use the display every day, investing in a mid-range model like the HUION Kamvas 13 Gen 3 or XPPen Artist 15.6 Pro will pay off in durability, color accuracy, and writing comfort. For additional classroom technology ideas, check our guide on 3D printers for kids to expand your teaching toolkit.
FAQs
Which pen tablet is best for online teaching?
The HUION Kamvas 13 Gen 3 is the best overall pen display for online teaching thanks to its 16384 pressure levels, PenTech 4.0 stylus, factory color calibration, and lightweight portable design. For budget-conscious teachers, the XP-PEN Artist12 offers excellent value with a clear FHD display and 8192 pressure levels.
What is the best pen display?
The best pen display depends on your needs. The HUION Kamvas 13 Gen 3 offers the best value-to-performance ratio for teachers. The XPPen Artist Pro 16 Gen2 is the best premium option with its 2.5K display and 16K pressure levels. The Wacom One HD is the most reliable choice for Chromebook users and those who prioritize brand trust.
Is Epic Pen good for online teaching?
Epic Pen is a screen annotation software, not a hardware pen display. It works well as a complementary tool that lets you draw on top of any application on your screen. When paired with a pen display like the ones in this guide, Epic Pen can enhance your online teaching by allowing you to annotate slides, documents, and web pages in real time during video calls.
Which tab is best for online classes?
For online teaching with screen sharing, a dedicated pen display connected to your computer offers the best experience. The HUION Kamvas 13 Gen 3 and XPPen Artist 15.6 Pro are top choices. If you need a standalone tablet for portable teaching, consider an iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab with a stylus, though these require additional apps for screen sharing during video calls.
Conclusion
Finding the best pen displays for online teaching in 2026 comes down to matching the right features to your teaching style and budget. The HUION Kamvas 13 Gen 3 remains my top overall pick for its combination of PenTech 4.0 performance, factory color calibration, and portable 2-pound design.
For teachers just starting out, the XP-PEN Artist12 delivers everything you need to write equations and annotate lessons for under $160. And if you want professional-grade resolution and pen performance, the XPPen Artist Pro 16 Gen2 with its 2.5K display is worth every penny.
Any of the 10 displays in this guide will transform your online teaching experience. Pick the one that fits your desk, your computer, and your budget, and you will wonder how you ever taught with a mouse.