> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/basics/drawtab-types/intro-pen-displays.md).

# Introduction to pen displays

## Overview

Pen displays are drawing tablets that have an embedded display panel. They are also called "screen tablets" or "display tablets".

## Key characteristics

* They DO have an embedded display
* They REQUIRE A COMPUTER to be used.

## Using a pen display

A pen display may look like a laptop or an iPad, which are standalone devices. However, unlike those devices:

* A pen display will **always** have at least one cable connected to a computer.
* A pen display does not contain a battery. It must always get power through a cable attached to a power supply or from the computer directly.

Pen displays cost between $300 and $3500.