I think I'm going to ask for one for Christmas. I just am not familiar with the models, or brands other than Wacom (should I be :p ). I wouldn't need any bigger than a 5 x 7, and that may be a bit large. I just want to know if anybody has any recommendations for me.

Thanks

I have a 4x5 graphire2. It's perfect for my needs (drawing, painting, sketching, design work), and it was only $99.
http://www.wacom.com/graphire/4x5.cfm
Now they have the updated graphire3 to replace it, same price. Unless you feel you need a larger size or more features, this should be perfect.

If you don't know if you need extra features or not, then you probably don't.

I know you're looking for something small, but if you can get an 8x12 or something similar it's worth the price. Go with Wacom. Since the Intuos3 is out now, the 2, which is still a great tablet, is probably a good deal cheaper now.

Wacom is god.

I have the graphire3, and it has served me well so far. Unless you really plan on using it for high-detail work (aka not a hobby), all you need is the Graphire, the Intuos is a bit high-priced.

An Intuous3 6x8 sells for about $275, check Froogle. Intuous tablets have the advantage of pen tilt control, as well as higher DPI and probably more pressure levels. Other than that I don't think there's much a difference.

I have a Wacom Graphire3 8x6, it's really bigger than you expect when you imagine it. It's plenty big for digital illustration and colouration.

I have graphire I or II...I'm not really sure. Anyway, for $100 it's a steal, I've never had any problems with mine.