Read This Before You Buy a Wacom Intuos5 Tablet

Today, after barely a year’s worth of intermittent use, my Wacom Intuos5 medium sized tablet stopped working. After a series of tests connecting the device to both Mac and Windows machines, I’ve come to the conclusion is that the tablet is completely dead. Certainly not what I expected from a $349US retail product. This is the first a Wacom branded tablet has completely failed on me. And it’s incredibly disappointing, especially as I take pride in keeping my tech in tip-top condition.

The culprit?

The Intuos5’s built-in USB port.

I’m fairly certain that the soldered connection on the device’s USB port is loose, or otherwise not making proper contact. I can’t confirm it for a fact because there is no easy method of opening up the Intuos5 to check. Incidentally, I’ve tested the USB cable that comes with the Intuos5 on another Wacom Intuos5 tablet and it tests out fine.

Sadly, there is little recourse for me. My Intuos5 is out of warranty, as I purchased it more than 3 years ago. I’ve reached out to Wacom on Twitter and patiently await a response from the company. Based on my research, sending the tablet to Wacom for repair would be almost the cost of purchasing a new tablet.

The USB port flaw seems to be affecting other users as well. Some users have experienced intermittent connectivity with the Intuos5’s LEDs going on and off.

Bottom line: I feel that the USB port design on the Intuos5 needs much sturdier reinforcement. Barring the problem with the USB port, I believe Wacom does make a good product. It’s just upsetting that such a great product is marred by a flaky port.

What about using the wireless capabilities of the Intuos5, you ask? That would be an option, except for the fact that the Intuos5 still needs to be charged via the USB port. So it’s a no go.

Given its reputation, I expected more longevity from the Wacom Intuos5. All I have now is a paperweight.

-Krishna