Best graphics tablet for a starting artist?

I'm an artist and thinking about trying digital graphics, I've done a little research on tablets and the results are just astounding. I don't know if I should be willing to pay over $300 for the super best Wacom Intuos or for now settle for something cheaper like the Wacom Bamboo Fun, Aiptek, DigiPro, etc.? I'm serious about my art but I'm also 16 and budget limited, I already spend a lot of money on oil painting.