I know that all the talk here is for Wacom, but there are useable alternatives that work out MUCH cheaper.... I have now had 3 different pads, all 5" x 6" and all costing around 25-30 Pounds (British), so around $55 US.

Can't remember the make of the first, but I had no problems at all with it.  My ex has it and won't give me it back.  The second was a Genius, though I'm sure it's all the same inside as the shape and dimensions were the same.  My current girlfriend uses it and won't give it back to me.  My latest is a Nisis, and is identical to the Genius.  It's my Dad's and I'll be damned if he's getting it back.

I'm not a graphics pro, but I've used Wacom pads - the only difference I found was the sensitivity of the pen tip, and to be honest it in no way justified the price tag. 

One thing I have to agree on however, is not wanting to go back to the mouse........

(",)

When you starve with a tiger, the tiger starves last.