Graphics tablet: an indispensable tool?

[AntonyF]

What's your preference when it comes to interacting with programs such as Xara Xtreme? Do you rely on the trusty old mouse, or do you prefer a pen and 'virtual paper' and use a graphics tablet for your work?

Do you perhaps use a mix of both?

Do you have any horror stories relating to your choices?

Discuss your experiences and preferences.

Anyone can post in this thread and vote in the poll, even if you're not registered. But registering is recommended.

[parahandy]

I have a Trust Graphics tablet and while it is very good for drawing with I am not
skilled enough to use it I prefer the mouse.

[Intbel]

I'd not be without it.
I find I work faster and more accurately with a pen & tablet.

Used with the freehand tool is when it really comes into its own.

To be recomended for anyone suffering RSI from constant mouse use as well.

[Bob Hahn]

Tablet for freehand drawing - sketches or wavy lines in a drawing. I use the mouse for editing lines - adjusting the control points, easier for clicking.

-Bob.

[Unregistered]

I normally just use the mousepad of my laptop.
Using a tablet or a mouse gives me a cramp after a short while.
So only when I have to I will get the tablet out.

[Sigmation]

Invaluable in photo editing and any situation that needs fine control.

The mouse feels like a brick after using the tablet and stylus.

I use a Wacom Intuos 3 and it is a great piece of kit.

[ankhor]

What's your preference when it comes to interacting with programs such as Xara Xtreme? Do you rely on the trusty old mouse, or do you prefer a pen and 'virtual paper' and use a graphics tablet for your work?

Do you perhaps use a mix of both?

Hmmm, I can`t choose simple because my prefered tool isn`t
in the poll, a (thumb)trackerball.

But I use both, my dynalink freedraw tablet and my cordless
logitech trackerball.

I never liked using a mouse, a trackerball is way easier.

[SCync]

I'm a natural southpaw, so I find that I have the pen in my left hand and the mouse in my right. I suppose that I first picked up a mouse, 25+ years ago and never looked back, but when I started using a tablet, the pen could only be used with the left. All detail work is definitely done with the pen.
It (two-handedness) does have some workflow advantages, I've found.

[sallybode]

For regular work I mouse, but if I draw hair or fluid lines on clothing, etc., then I use a tablet. Defining attributes and using menus, I mouse.

[The Alien]

I use a mouse, but I wouldn't mind having a tablet too just for fun