Topic awaiting preservation: Which Wacom to buy? (Page 1 of 1)

I want to buy a wacom tablet.
I am not a web designer, I just want to learn how to use it to substitute the mouse when using Photoshop or any other application that makes sense to use a tablet.
After studying the subject, my decision was that I want a Wacom because this brand seems to be if not the best one of the best.
But since money is short, I have also decided that it will be the Graphire2 model or an Intuos2 4 x 5. The first is around $90 and the second one is around $190.
My question is: since I never had or used one, since I am just an amateur in Photoshop techniques, would it be worth spending $100 more to have the Intuos2 instead of the Graphire2 ? The specs for the Intuos2 are much more appealing than the Graphire2's, yet, the Graphire2 seems to have all an amateur would need.
What should I do?

:FAQ:

I bought the Graphire 4 x 5 at Xmas and I am happy with it and never had second thoughts about it either. I don't like the mouse that comes with it there seems to be a lag at times.

Like anything else it is only tool that you use and the outcome depends on your skills with it.

sib

The main reason I am thinking on buying a wacom is to make it easier for me to use Photoshop for retouching photos. I have some RSI problems and holding the mouse, dragging it, etc., is painful. I believe a tablet would be a good solution. In no way I want it to make me a great artist because obviously if I can't draw well in a regular paper I surely would never be able to draw well in an "electronic paper".
I think that the Graphire2, being half the price, considering my actual "skills", would be the best option. Pressure sensitivity and tilt is for the pro's. But I may want to play pro, why not?

I dove in a got a 6*8 wacom a year and a half ago, and for me it has been well worth the money many many times... hands down.

From what I hear though, most people who buy the 4*5's are pretty happy with them... They are pretty small, but there are a lot of tricks and stuff you can do with them.

And you will love it for retouching photos. The sensativity modes make it so much faster.

I would personally opt for the Intuos2. I've had a 12 x 12 for half a year now, and I am amazed with some of the techniques I've discovered through its use.

I've used a Graphire too, and have found the Intuos2 has a better reaction to movement and pressure.

Question: Can the flaps that cover the tablets drawing area be replaced? I have a tiny scratch in mine that is in a high traffic area of the tablet. It is very annoying, yet I should have known to replace the nib before the tip became so sharp...