Pro Graphics Controllers Buyers Guide

Professional 3D Mice

Professional 3D mice are purpose-built devices suited for use with design and engineering applications - specifically for navigation around 3D digital environments. Like professional mice, ergonomics is a key benefit as 3D mice are expected to be used for long periods of time - with this in mind the wrist rests are often padded and feature ergonomically spaced buttons. Usually used alongside a professional mouse these 3D controllers feature a ‘joystick like’ controller that provides smooth and intuitive 3D navigation. This is complemented by numerous programmable buttons to allow specific views, commands and features. Compact versions are also available featuring just the ‘joystick’ element. Both styles also feature wired and wireless connectivity.

There are also several health benefits in combining a professional 3D mouse with a professional mouse at your CAD workstation - when a mouse is used intensively with repetitive patterns of movement, this can result in pain and functional impairments, also known as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). Working with two hands – with a 3D mouse in your left hand and a conventional shape mouse in your right hand (or reversed for left handed users) – helps prevent these symptoms, while making your CAD workflow considerably more efficient and healthier.

Graphics Tablets

Graphics tablets are purpose designed devices to allow a digital artist to draw directly on a surface rather than using a mouse, and may be used in drawing, designing, photo editing, animation and some CAD applications. The flat surface acts like digital paper and the input from the tablet is relayed to the display monitor connected to the workstation. This way of drawing or designing allows for facets such as pressure and sensitivity to have impacts that would be otherwise lost when using a mouse. There are several types and sizes of tablet available - all use a stylus pen - but differ in how the ‘drawn’ content is represented:

Pen Tablets

Features a pressure sensitive surface and you see the drawn image on your monitor.

Paper Tablets

Features a paper like screen so you see your creations on the tablet and the monitor.

Display Tablets

Features a full digital etched glass screen so you see your creations on the tablet and the monitor.

All these types of tablet feature sensitive surfaces detecting over 8,000 levels of pressure and capable of the stylus being used at an angle to create effects. High end tablets feature 4K and 99% RGB colour representation. Common screen sizes range from 7in to 32in allowing tablet use on all budgets - all also support left or right handed use and many feature quick use keys for simple intuitive operation.

As tablets are designed to be a drawing surface then it is key they can be mounted in the most comfortable position whether this be angled on a desk or mounted on a stand or arm.

It is also worth stating that although graphics tablets are bundled with a stylus as standard, replacement and additional pens are available for different accuracies, thicknesses and media.