Well, I started with a Graphire3 myself.. but I think most people these days go with Bamboo tablets. They're relatively inexpensive, and are of a decent quality.

You should go check out Wacom's website, if you feel you wish to browse what they have.

I wouldn't really go off-brand, seeing as I've heard that off-brands sometimes don't have good tech support.

A real beginners one would be a Wacom Bamboo. If you want it a step up try the Intuos 3 or 4 series of Wacom tablets.

They aren't incredible cheap but nothing beats Wacom quality.

Don't get the LCD tablets.
Go for the normal tablets first, anything cheap will suit any beginner just fine.

It really depends on how much you want to spend. Like people have said, a lot of people start with the small, cheap Bamboo tablets.

Personally, I hate them. They're too tiny for me, and I just never liked the feel of them. I started out on a 12x12 Wacom Intuos2 forever ago (like, in 4th/5th grade? lol) and I loved the hell out of it. I currently use a Wacom Intuos3 9x12, but it's nicer because it's wider instead of shaped like a giant square. So, I don't believe that starting basic is the way to go for all beginners.

It's a really personal matter, you need to ask:
-Do you plan on keeping your tablet as a permanent fixture, or only take it out to draw? If you don't want it out all the time, opt for something small and without a lot of hassle. If you want it to be permanent, go for something bigger (mine stays out permanently on the side of my desk, acts as a mousepad when not drawing).

-How big do you usually draw/what kind of drawings do you plan on doing? If you draw small, and don't plan on doing any huge spread-out pieces, a smaller one is good. If you draw large/need a lot of room and plan on doing large widescreen pictures etc, definitely go for something large, so you don't have to scroll around the canvas all the time.

-How much are you willing to spend? This is most important lol. Small ones like the bamboo will be cheaper. Things like the Intuos will be more expensive, but they are ultimately better (much better pressure sensitivity for example). However, you can sometimes find them second hand for a good price, if you don't mind the surface being a little scratched up. For example, you can buy a 6x8 Intuos3 in used condition for $199 an Amazon, which is the same price as a medium size Bamboo.

-Is art going to be a big focus in your life? If you plan on going into commercial design or a field that requires a lot of photoshop work, go for the best you can afford right now. It will pay off in the long run.

So, those are basically what you should be looking for. I can't stress enough to start on what works for you foremost, rather than "this is a good beginner's tablet". I suggest looking through reviews, and seeing which one appeals to you the most ;w; It's a little tough, but getting a good tablet for you will last aaaages. My old Wacom is still up and kicking, but it just sits around in its box now lol. I can definitely put in a good word for the Intuos series, having used 2 generations and being able to compare them to a Bamboo.

Sorry this was so long, but tablets are srs business lol. ;_;

Wow. thanks for the insight.

Drawing is more of a hobby for me if anything so I prolly wont actively go for professional class tablets. Currently leaning towards a Bamboo fun, the size is alright for me and I can put it away when Im not using it. Though after checking the Intuos4, its additional features look mighty nice... It ends up as financial matter after all.

From what you have experienced and heard, what would ou say is the average life expectancy of a tablet if its well kept?

My first tablet lasted me a few years (it still works), and my current one has been going for like 2 (3?) years now? It's still pretty new. It depends on the tablet, the smaller ones won't last quite as long, but it shouldn't be an issue if you don't plan on keeping it hooked up 24/7.

Glider makes most of the points that I would have to say.

I started on a small Graphire3 tablet (4x5) it lasted about 5 years, which I believe was my fault it died (the year it died I was plugging it from one computer to another and then back).

My current Graphier4s (6x8) have been working fine for 3 years now and still counting. As far as size? My biggest complaint with the 4x5 sized ones is that you do get a cramped feeling. (think of it like you have a large piece of paper but a small board to press down on.) Though the 6x8 works fairly nice for me.

Also of note my Graphire3 pen is still working and works with the Graphire4s just fine. I've even by mistake washed the pen with some clothes (I fortunately found it before I put them in the drier) after which I let it set out over night and dry. It works just like it always has with no problems since.

Make sure you have one that feels right as well

http://www.buy.com/prod/digipro-8x6.....204545625.html

try this one man. it's the same one I have and it's wonderful =] and hella cheap.