How to Configure Wacom Tablet Shortcuts in 2026

Configuring your Wacom tablet shortcuts is an essential step towards optimizing your digital art workflow. This guide will walk you through the process of customizing your Wacom tablet's keys and buttons, helping you achieve a more efficient and productive creative experience.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the configuration process, let's quickly go over some basic terms:

1. ExpressKeys: The ExpressKeys are the customizable buttons located on the side or top of your Wacom tablet.
2. Rod of Ages (RoA): The Rod of Ages is a software that allows you to manage and customize your Wacom tablet's settings, including shortcuts.
3. Tablet Properties: Tablet Properties is the window where you can configure your Wacom tablet's settings, including shortcuts.

Configuring Your ExpressKeys

1. Install the latest version of the Wacom driver and Rod of Ages software on your computer.
2. Launch the Rod of Ages software and connect your Wacom tablet to your computer.
3. In the Rod of Ages interface, select your tablet model.
4. Navigate to the ExpressKeys tab and click on an available ExpressKey slot.
5. Assign a function or key combination by clicking on the Function dropdown menu and selecting the desired option from the list. You can also create custom functions using keyboard shortcuts, mouse clicks, or scripts.
6. Click on the Apply button to save your changes.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 for each ExpressKey slot you wish to configure.

Customizing Your Tablet Properties

1. Launch your preferred drawing software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Procreate).
2. Right-click on an empty space within the application and select Tablet Properties or navigate to the tablet settings menu in your software.
3. In the Tablet Properties window, navigate to the ExpressKeys tab.
4. Here you can configure additional ExpressKey functions specific to your drawing software.
5. Click on the Apply button to save your changes.

Using Popular Keyboard Shortcuts

Here are some popular keyboard shortcuts that artists find useful for their workflow:

• Ctrl+Z (Cmd+Z on Mac): Undo
• Ctrl+S (Cmd+S on Mac): Save
• Ctrl+Alt+Z (Cmd+Option+Z on Mac): Redo
• Ctrl+Shift+N (Cmd+Shift+N on Mac): New file
• Ctrl+Shift+S (Cmd+Shift+S on Mac): Save as
• Ctrl+P (Cmd+P on Mac): Print

Comparison Table

FAQ

Question 1: Can I configure my Wacom tablet's ExpressKeys for multiple applications?

Answer: Yes, you can configure your ExpressKeys to perform different functions in various applications by using the Rod of Ages software and Tablet Properties window within each application.

Question 2: How do I create a custom function for an ExpressKey?

Answer: To create a custom function, use a keyboard shortcut, mouse click, or script that is supported by your drawing software. You can then assign this custom function to an ExpressKey using the Rod of Ages software.

Question 3: Are there any recommended keyboard shortcuts for digital artists?

Answer: Yes, popular keyboard shortcuts include Undo (Ctrl+Z or Cmd+Z), Save (Ctrl+S or Cmd+S), Redo (Ctrl+Alt+Z or Cmd+Option+Z), New file (Ctrl+Shift+N or Cmd+Shift+N), and Save as (Ctrl+Shift+S or Cmd+Shift+S).

Conclusion

Configuring your Wacom tablet's shortcuts is an essential step towards streamlining your digital art workflow. By following this guide, you can customize your ExpressKeys and optimize your productivity for a more enjoyable creative experience. Don't forget to check out our selection of drawing tablets here. Happy customizing!