A normal tablet with the screen switched off does not work any more than this Wacom. Perhaps a graphics tablet without a display is meant, they are cheaper and work differently. You draw in a different place than you see. If that doesn't bother you, don't spend money on a Cintiq.

If you are asking whether the Cintiq 16 can be used instead of a monitor, then the answer is yes! It is a monitor that also contains an input device (touch).