Modern technology has changed the way we think about creativity, and one of the most popular tools for artists has been the iPad. Thanks to its high quality screen, compatibility with Apple Pencil and a variety of digital art applications, the iPad has become a real godsend for those who draw. But the question arises: which iPad to choose for drawing?
The main parameters when choosing an iPad for drawing
Before you start choosing an iPad, you need to determine your needs. Every artist is unique, and everyone has different challenges, whether it’s creating digital illustrations, retouching photos, or developing concept art. Let’s take a look at the main parameters to consider:
- Screen size. The larger the screen, the easier it is to work with small details. For professional work, larger screens like the 12.9-inch iPad Pro are best. However, if you draw on the go and often carry your tablet with you, a smaller option like the 11-inch iPad Pro or 10.9-inch iPad Air may be appropriate.
- Device performance. For heavy graphics applications like Procreate or Adobe Fresco, device performance is important. This is where the iPad Pro with the M2 processor comes out on top, handling the most demanding tasks. For less demanding tasks, other models such as the iPad Air or even the budget iPad 9th generation will do the trick.
- Apple Pencil support. All current iPad models support Apple Pencil, but it’s important to note the difference between the first and second generation of the stylus. The second-generation Apple Pencil is more convenient to use because it charges wirelessly and has double-tap functionality for switching tools.
- Price. Not every artist needs the most expensive iPad. If you are just starting your way in digital art, you can do with a simpler model. It is important not to overpay for features that you will not use to the fullest.
Which iPad Pro to choose for drawing
If you need a tablet for professional work, one of the best options is the iPad Pro. This tablet is the flagship in Apple’s line of devices and offers the maximum performance you need for graphics-heavy applications and large files.
- The iPad Pro 12.9 inch is the choice for those looking for the ultimate in detail-oriented computing. The large screen with Liquid Retina XDR technology delivers the highest brightness, contrast and colour accuracy, especially important for artists working with colour and light.
- The iPad Pro 11 inch is a more compact but equally powerful option. It’s perfect for artists who often work out of the home or studio and need a mobile solution. This tablet also supports the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, making it a great choice for digital art.
Both are equipped with the M2 processor, which delivers lightning-fast performance on even the most demanding tasks. If you’re wondering which iPad Pro to choose for drawing, consider your personal preferences in terms of screen size. Many artists are more comfortable working on larger screens, but if mobility is important to you, the 11-inch model is more convenient.
Which iPad for artists to choose
Not all artists work in a professional environment, and not everyone needs maximum power. If you’re just starting your immersion in digital art or need an iPad for a hobby, it’s worth considering more affordable models.
- The iPad Air is a great option for those looking for a balance between power and price. This model features a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, which, while it doesn’t offer the same performance as the iPad Pro, still delivers high image quality. Importantly, the iPad Air supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, making it suitable for most artists’ tasks.
- The 9th generation iPad is a budget-friendly option for those who are not ready to spend a lot of money on a tablet. Despite its affordable price, this iPad supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, which opens up the possibility of creating high-quality digital works. Of course, this tablet is inferior in performance to more expensive models, but if you don’t need sophisticated features, this could be a great option.
What is the best iPad to buy for drawing
When choosing an iPad for painting, it is important to realise that each artist has their own individual needs. For example, if you work with large projects and need a high resolution screen for detail, then the iPad Pro model should be your choice. If you paint for fun but don’t need professional features, then the iPad Air or the basic iPad model will be perfect for you.
- Performance. If you’re a professional who works with large graphics files, you’ll definitely need a device with high performance. The iPad Pro with the M2 processor handles the most demanding tasks, allowing you to work with any application without lag.
- Accessory support. For many artists, the Apple Pencil is an essential part of their work. When choosing a tablet, make sure it supports the current version of the stylus. The second-generation Apple Pencil is much more convenient to use, with wireless charging and additional features like double-tapping for quick tool switching.
- Cost. Don’t overpay for features you won’t use. If you’re not a professional artist, you may not need the high-end features of the iPad Pro. The iPad Air or even more affordable models may be well-suited to your needs.
- Durability. All iPad models are designed for long-term use, but if you plan to update your equipment frequently, you may not want to choose the most expensive option. Many artists start with cheaper models and eventually move on to more professional devices.
Table of iPad characteristics for drawing
To better understand the differences between iPad models that are suitable for drawing, here’s a table with the main features:
| Model | Display | Apple Pencil support | Processor | Memory (RAM) | Storage capacity | Weight |
| iPad Pro 12.9 (M2) | 12.9″, Liquid Retina XDR | Apple Pencil 2nd generation | M2 | 8-16 GB | 128GB – 2TB | 682 г |
| iPad Pro 11 (M2) | 11″, Liquid Retina | Apple Pencil 2nd generation | M2 | 8-16 GB | 128GB – 2TB | 466 г |
| iPad Air (5th generation) | 10.9″, Liquid Retina | Apple Pencil 2nd generation | M1 | 8 GB | 64GB – 256GB | 461 г |
| 9th generation iPad | 10.2″, Retina | Apple Pencil 1st generation | A13 Bionic | 3 GB | 64GB – 256GB | 487 г |
Recommendations for choosing an iPad for artists
If you need an iPad for drawing, and you’re still in doubt about which iPad is best to buy for drawing, here are some recommendations to help you make your final decision:
- Professionals are better off with the iPad Pro. This model has all the features you need for demanding projects, including a large screen and powerful M2 processor.
- For amateur artists, the iPad Air is a good choice. It’s powerful enough for most tasks and supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, making it ideal for creating digital art.
- For students and aspiring artists, the 9th generation iPad is the way to go. It is a budget option that is still capable of performing most tasks related to drawing and graphics.
So, which iPad to choose for drawing depends on your needs and budget. If you’re a professional looking for maximum performance and comfort, the iPad Pro is your best choice. But if you’re painting for fun or just starting to explore digital art, the iPad Air or the basic iPad model is a great alternative.
Apple tablets have a proven track record in graphics and design, and any iPad paired with Apple Pencil is a great creative tool. No matter which iPad for artists you choose, all of these models will help you realise your creative ideas with maximum quality and convenience.
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