Ah okay. No, sadly you can't use it without the pen. The main usage is indeed for artsy stuff where a pen is required but it can be used as a normal input device. Linux drivers are top notch too
Right? Perfect size, still super portable, easy to build and flash, what's not to love? Do you have a photo of your board? I am constantly looking for new ideas for keycaps etc.
I do sometimes, yes. I have a keybinding to switch the monitor the wacom is bound to. Although I must admit that there is a mouse if I'm too lazy to use the pen