Tablet?

Okay, so lately I'm majorly wanting to do some art but the thought of it kinda frustrates me because I have to draw it out on paper, scan it to my brother's computer because mine needs some work to be printer compatible and I always forget about it til I want to scan.....then color it with my touchpad.  I've done some things over the past two years or so and feel I'm improving....but I also feel I'm not able to get details (especially small ones like hair shading or lines, as I have to do them with the Paths tool)as sharply as I would like.

Thus, I have several questions for all you peanuts out there in the gallery

1.) If I were to acquire a graphics tablet, would these things get easier....or is it more a matter of experience that I just haven't gotten yet?

2.) If you have a tablet, what kind do you have and what size?  Years ago I thought I wanted a Wacom Bamboo Fun in the 6x8 or 6x9 (can't remember the exact measurements but it's the medium one) because it came with Painter and Photoshop (and cost like 200 bucks)......but I've worked with GIMP so far and really like it and am fine with not having the others.  I'm interested more in drawing surface size than total size (like, it seems like I remember the 6x9 having a 5x7 usable surface, for example).  I wouldn't have a problem with a smaller one (like a 3x5, I think it is) if I knew I would still have room enough to work on a surface about the size of my cell phone's screen.  If anyone has one this size, is it large enough to color or draw lines and not have to constantly pick up your stylus and move it?

3.) For anyone who has had several different types of tablets (or even used them) is there a difference between brands, as far as compatibility with your computer, general operation (like that your computer actually recognizes it) and the like?  Are there any brands any of you strongly recommend getting or, perhaps more importantly, not getting?

4.) What kind of features should I look for?  Would a tablet intended primarily for writing work okay for coloring digital art?


Not requiring the extra software has put some of these in my price range (if I save for a few months, or for when I get a full-time job, hopefully in a few months). I've never even used one but know a number of my friend who have them love them and say they're really helpful.....so don't be afraid, let me know what you think!