Wacom has officially launched its next-generation Cintiq pen display tablets, bringing a modern aesthetic and high-end display upgrades to its mid-range creative lineup.
Targeting digital artists, illustrators, and designers, Wacom’s refreshed Cintiq range introduces slimmer designs, brighter screens, and faster performance at a more affordable price point than the premium Cintiq Pro models.
Refined Design with Portability in Mind
The new Cintiq 16 and 24 models feature a significantly sleeker profile. Wacom has transitioned away from rounded edges and thick bezels, adopting a boxier, minimalist design. The Cintiq 16 has been slimmed from 25mm to just 15mm, while both 24-inch models measure under 21mm in thickness — a considerable reduction from the previous 40mm design of the Cintiq 22.
This streamlined form factor enhances portability and comfort, especially for creatives who work on flat surfaces or in tight workspaces.
Display Upgrades and Improved Performance
Wacom has upped its display game by upgrading from Full HD to 2K resolution across all models. The color accuracy has also improved, with 100% sRGB coverage now standard. Response time has been halved to 12ms, ensuring smoother stylus input for real-time drawing.
In addition, brightness levels now reach 290 nits on the Cintiq 16 and up to 350 nits on the Cintiq 24 models, offering better visibility even in bright environments. The screens are etched to reduce glare and simulate a paper-like texture — a favorite feature for digital artists seeking a natural drawing feel.
Touch Support and Enhanced Connectivity
A new touch-enabled model — the Cintiq 24 Touch — has been added, priced at $1,499.95. It supports multi-finger gestures like zooming, panning, and rotating, marking a first for Wacom’s mid-range Cintiqs. Previously, such features were exclusive to the professional-tier Cintiq Pro.
All new models now support individual ports for HDMI, USB-C, and a Type-C power jack, replacing the older 3-in-1 cable. The Cintiq 16, notably, can operate using just a single USB-C cable, simplifying setup and enhancing portability.
Included Accessories and Mounting Options
Each device ships with the Wacom Pro Pen 3 — a highly customizable stylus that allows for tailored grip and button configurations. The Cintiq 16 includes built-in foldable legs, while the 24-inch models come with adjustable stands and full VESA mount compatibility.
Affordable Upgrade for Serious Creatives
With prices starting at $699.95 for the Cintiq 16 and $1,299.95 for the Cintiq 24, the new line strikes a balance between affordability and professional-grade performance. This positions the Cintiq series firmly in the mid-range market, appealing to aspiring artists and freelancers looking for premium features without the Cintiq Pro’s hefty price tag.
By offering high-resolution displays, faster response, and touch capabilities in a sleeker body, Wacom aims to regain ground from rivals like Huion and XP-Pen — and it may very well succeed.