I started with a XP-PEN Deco 01 (no screen, ~$70) and more recently upgraded to a XP-PEN Artist 22R Pro (22inch screen) https://www.xp-pen.com/product/541.html .

I went with XP-PEN because it's the most popular affordable budget brand and has a good reputation, so in the event of issues or something I figured it'd be easier to find support. I've had no problems with either tablet so far.

For software, I use Clip Studio Paint Pro ($50, as low as $20-30 if on sale - they do sales regularly - and it includes free updates). I used to use FireAlpaca, which is more basic but free. Krita is also free software, it's amazing and rivals 'pro' software like Photoshop but might be slow.

The reason I prefer CSP is because (a) it's cheap, (b) it isn't slow on my laptop like Photoshop and Krita, (c) it seems a bit easier to learn to use than Photoshop or Krita, and (d) it has all the features I need.