I'm hesitant to get the capture because of it's small working area and the create is sorta pricey. My computer is 13 1/2 inches wide. I would be using it for photo manip for stuff like this: [link]
I actually use the Connect because it's the cheapest of all of them. I've got a 21" monitor and I have no problems with the smaller working area on it; if I need to I can just zoom in.
Since you're just doing photomanips, you'll be perfectly fine with a Connect if you're trying to save money.
I've used: Medium Intuos3, smallest connect, and largest Intuos4. I really don't have a preference for either in terms of space and I've never experienced hand cramps from working on the small ones.
Thanks in advance