If you're still clinging to an older Wacom model or feel the Intuos4 hasn't run its course, we don't think you'll regret splurging on a new model ... Well, at least you won't mind the expense after you get your hands on one, that's for sure.

Wacom’s newest Intuos has done what its predecessors could not, and I can’t wait to pick up one for myself. There are three things that compel me to put this tablet at the top of my gadget shopping list: design, software, and touch.

Though it doesn't add any new graphics-specific capabilities over its predecessor, the Wacom Intuos5 input tablet remains a must-have for digital brushworkers.

It’s a significant improvement over the previous Intuos4 tablets, as well as a suitable upgrade for those who feel limited by the less-expensive, less-capable Bamboo tablets Wacom makes for consumers.

The Intuos5 is an investment that will pay off many times over. Non-professionals may prefer the less-expensive Bamboo pen tablets, but if you want the best, the Intuos5 is as good as it gets, aside from a Wacom Cintiq pen display.