As the digital art scene continues to flourish, many artists are turning towards the iPad as their go-to device for drawing. With its sleek design and robust capabilities, the iPad offers an incredible platform for creating art. If you’re searching for the best iPad for drawing, you’ve come to the right place. In 2024, the market is filled with options, and finding the right one can be daunting.
Whether you’re a professional artist, a hobbyist, or a student, it’s crucial to choose an iPad that best suits your drawing needs. In this guide, we’ll look at the top 10 products available on Amazon in 2024 and provide you with an in-depth review of each model. By the end, you’ll have enough information to help you decide which iPad is the best for drawing.
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Astropad Darkboard – iPad Drawing Stand with Apple Pencil Pocket – Lightweight Drawing Stand for... | $45.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 2 |
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MAX SMART Tablet Drawing Stand, Digital Drawing Pad Stand, Foldable, Adjustable for 9 to 16 Inches... | $18.25 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 3 |
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PicassoTab X Drawing Tablet • No Computer Needed • Drawing Apps & Tutorials • 4 Bonus Items... | $179.95 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 4 |
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ELETIUO Upgraded Bamboo Wooden Drawing Ipad Holder with Pencil&Charger Cable Slot, Multi-Angle... | $49.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 5 |
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XPPen Drawing Tablet StarG640 Digital Graphic Tablet 6x4 Inch Art Tablet with Battery-Free Stylus... | $39.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 6 |
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PicassoTab XL Drawing Tablet • No Computer Needed • 11.6" Screen • Drawing Apps • Tutorials... | $219.95 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 7 |
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PicassoTab X11 Drawing Tablet • No Computer Needed • 11" Screen 2K • Drawing Apps & Tutorials... | $199.95 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 8 |
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AFOOYO Bamboo Tablet Drawing Stand - Portable & Adjustable 5 Angles, Laptop Stand Riser, Book... | $49.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 9 |
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TeinenRon Graphics Drawing Tablet with Stand,10x6 Inch Drawing Tablet with 8192 Level Pen,12 Hot... | $44.39 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 10 |
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Elevation Lab DraftTable V2 for iPad Pro (Full Kit) : Rock-Solid & Adjustable | Tablet Stand Holder... | $99.95 | Buy on Amazon |
The Best iPads for Drawing in 2024
1. iPad Pro (2022)
One of the most advanced tablets on the market, the iPad Pro (2022) is a dream come true for digital artists. It features a Liquid Retina XDR display, supporting ProMotion for incredibly smooth visuals, and the M2 chip, making it incredibly fast and powerful. This iPad is compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), which offers precision and responsiveness, allowing artists to create intricate designs effortlessly.
The iPad Pro (2022) also offers up to 2TB of storage, making it perfect for artists who need to save large files without worrying about running out of space. The device’s battery life lasts up to 10 hours, providing ample time to work on projects without needing a charge.
- included_components: 11-inch iPad Pro
- wireless_comm_standard: 802_11_AX
- Brilliant 11-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion, True Tone, & P3 wide color - Go far with all-day battery life
- Apple M2 chip with 8-core CPU & 10-core GPU - Stay connected with ultrafast Wi-Fi 6E & 5G cellular models available
- 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage, 10MP Ultra Wide back camera, & LiDAR Scanner for immersive AR
2. iPad Air (2022)
The iPad Air (2022) is another fantastic option for artists seeking a more affordable tablet without sacrificing quality. Powered by the M1 chip, this iPad can handle demanding applications seamlessly. The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone technology provides vibrant colors and sharp details, making it a perfect canvas for artwork.
The iPad Air also supports the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), making it an ideal tool for drawing and sketching. Additionally, it offers impressive battery life and supports 5G connectivity, allowing you to stay connected while working on the go.
- Stunning 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone and P3 wide color
- A14 Bionic chip with Neural Engine
- Touch ID for secure authentication and Apple Pay
- 12MP back camera, 7MP FaceTime HD front camera
- Available in Silver, Space Gray, Rose Gold, Green, and Sky Blue
3. iPad (9th Generation, 2021)
For artists on a budget, the iPad (9th Generation) is a solid choice. It combines performance with affordability. The A13 Bionic chip ensures smooth multitasking, while the 10.2-inch Retina display offers vibrant visuals. This model also supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, making it suitable for drawing.
While it doesn’t have all the high-end features of its more expensive counterparts, the iPad (9th Generation) is a reliable option for students and casual artists who don’t require advanced specifications but still want to draw digitally.
- WHY IPAD — All the essentials in the most affordable iPad, with a beautiful 10.2-inch Retina display, powerful A13 Bionic chip, and an Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage. Work, play, create, learn, stay connected, and more.
- IPADOS + APPS — iPadOS makes iPad more productive, intuitive, and versatile. With iPadOS, run multiple apps at once, use Apple Pencil to write in any text field with Scribble, and edit and share photos. iPad comes with essential apps like Safari, Messages, and Keynote, with over a million more apps available on the App Store.
- FAST WI-FI CONNECTIVITY — Fast Wi-Fi keeps you connected at home, work, school, or wherever you go with your iPad.
- PERFORMANCE AND STORAGE — The A13 Bionic chip gives you the graphics performance you need. And with all-day battery life, iPad is perfect for playing immersive games and more. Choose from 64GB or 256GB storage options.
- 10.2-INCH RETINA DISPLAY — With incredible detail and vivid colors, it’s perfect for watching movies or drawing your next masterpiece. True Tone adjusts the display to the color temperature of the room to make viewing comfortable in any light.
4. iPad Mini (2021)
The iPad Mini (2021) is an excellent choice for artists looking for a highly portable device. With its compact size and lightweight design, you can take it anywhere. Despite its smaller 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, it packs a punch with the A15 Bionic chip, which can handle drawing apps with ease.
This iPad supports the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and provides a natural drawing experience. If you’re an artist who travels frequently or prefers sketching on the go, the iPad Mini is a strong contender.
- WHY IPAD MINI — The full iPad experience designed to fit in one hand. With an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, powerful A15 Bionic chip, 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage, USB-C connectivity, and ultrafast Wi-Fi. Take notes, mark up documents, and edit photos and videos.
- IPADOS + APPS — iPadOS makes iPad more productive, intuitive, and versatile. With iPadOS, run multiple apps at once, use Apple Pencil to write in any text field with Scribble, and edit and share photos. iPad mini comes with essential apps like Safari, Messages, and Keynote, with over a million more apps available on the App Store.
- FAST WI-FI CONNECTIVITY — Fast Wi-Fi keeps you connected at home, work, school, or wherever you go with your iPad.
- PERFORMANCE AND STORAGE — The A15 Bionic chip delivers powerful performance and blazing-fast graphics. And with all-day battery life, iPad mini is always ready for any task or project. Choose from 64GB or 256GB storage options depending on the room you need for apps, music, movies, and more.
- APPLE PENCIL AND SMART FOLIO — With Apple Pencil (2nd generation), iPad mini transforms into the world’s best note‑taking device. To protect your iPad mini and easily prop it up, you can use the slim Smart Folio covers, available in five colors. Accessories sold separately.
5. iPad (10th Generation, 2022)
The latest model of the standard iPad series, the iPad (10th Generation), offers many upgraded features. It is equipped with the A14 Bionic chip, which delivers excellent speed and efficiency. The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display provides stunning graphics, making it perfect for artists.
This iPad supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil but introduces USB-C for charging and connectivity, aligning it with newer models. While it may not be as powerful as the Pro or Air models, it’s a solid choice for casual artists looking for a reliable tablet.
- WHY IPAD — Colorfully reimagined and more versatile than ever, iPad is great for the things you do every day. With an all-screen design, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, powerful A14 Bionic chip, superfast Wi-Fi, and four gorgeous colors, iPad delivers a powerful way to create, stay connected, and get things done.
- IPADOS + APPS — iPadOS makes iPad more productive, intuitive, and versatile. With iPadOS, run multiple apps at once, use Apple Pencil to write in any text field with Scribble, and edit and share photos. iPad comes with essential apps like Safari, Messages, and Keynote, with over a million more apps available on the App Store.
- FAST WI-FI CONNECTIVITY — Wi-Fi 6 gives you fast access to your files, uploads, and downloads, and lets you seamlessly stream your favorite shows.
- PERFORMANCE AND STORAGE — The A14 Bionic chip delivers power and performance for any activity. And with all-day battery life, iPad is perfect for playing immersive games and editing photos and videos. Choose from 64GB or 256GB storage options.
- APPLE PENCIL AND MAGIC KEYBOARD FOLIO — With Apple Pencil (1st generation), iPad transforms into an immersive drawing canvas and the world’s best note‑taking device. The Magic Keyboard Folio features a versatile two-piece design with a detachable keyboard and a protective back panel that both attach magnetically to iPad. Accessories sold separately.
6. Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)
While not an iPad itself, the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) is essential for any artist using an iPad. Its precision, responsiveness, and features like pressure sensitivity make it a perfect companion for any drawing application. The ability to double-tap to switch tools adds a level of convenience that all artists will appreciate.
If you’re investing in an iPad for drawing, pairing it with the Apple Pencil is a must for a complete artistic experience.
- WHY APPLE PENCIL — With pixel-perfect precision, tilt and pressure sensitivity, and imperceptible lag, Apple Pencil (2nd generation) makes painting, sketching, doodling, and note-taking better than ever. Attaches magnetically for wireless pairing and charging.
- COMPATIBILITY — Apple Pencil (2nd generation) works with iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th generation); iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generation); iPad Air (4th and 5th generation); and iPad mini (6th generation).
- EASY AND NATURAL — Featuring a flat edge that attaches magnetically, Apple Pencil (2nd generation) allows you to change tools with just a tap from your finger.
- TRANSFORMS IPAD INTO A CANVAS — Draw, sketch, color, take notes, and mark up documents. Apple Pencil does it all with pixel-perfect precision, tilt and pressure sensitivity, and imperceptible lag. Apple Pencil attaches, charges, and pairs magnetically.
7. iPad Pro (2021)
Although this is an older model, the iPad Pro (2021) remains a high-performance option for digital artists. Equipped with the M1 chip, it supports demanding software and multitasking. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is stunning, providing deep blacks and a wide color spectrum.
This tablet also supports the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, making it an excellent choice for both professional and casual artists. With a fantastic battery life and storage options up to 2TB, you can create without limitations.
- Apple M1 chip for next-level performance
- Brilliant 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion, True Tone, and P3 wide color
- TrueDepth camera system featuring Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage
- 12MP Wide camera, 10MP Ultra Wide camera, and LiDAR Scanner for immersive AR
- Stay connected with ultrafast Wi-Fi
8. Microsoft Surface Pro 9
While not an iPad, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 deserves a mention for artists considering alternatives. The Surface Pro 9 features a 13-inch PixelSense display and supports the Surface Pen, providing an excellent canvas for drawing. The device operates on Windows, allowing use of powerful software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.
It offers flexibility and versatility that many artists appreciate, making it worthy of consideration for anyone looking for the best device for drawing, regardless of brand.
- Introducing Copilot on Windows 11, your everyday AI companion - Copilot empowers you to create faster, complete tasks with ease and lessens your cognitive load - making one complicated task, simple.
- Immersive 13" touchscreen – Adapts to your surroundings, adjusting the color balance to best suit your environment.
- Hinges on your every move – Adjust the angle with built-in Kickstand, adding Surface Pro Signature Keyboard[1] for instant laptop productivity.
- Like pen on paper, only better – Take notes more easily in your own handwriting. Sketch ideas and diagrams. It’s all natural with Surface Pro 9 and Surface Slim Pen 2[1].
- The perfect angle for video calls – Surface Pro 9 1080p HD camera features an updated angle that places you squarely in the frame.
9. iPad Mini (6th Generation)
Similar to its 2021 counterpart, the iPad Mini (6th Generation) provides a blend of portability and performance. The 8.3-inch display and A15 Bionic chip make this model suitable for various applications, including drawing apps. Like the previous Mini, it supports the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), further enhancing its drawing capabilities.
If you prefer a small tablet that you can easily carry around, the iPad Mini (6th Generation) is an excellent choice for artists who value portability.
- WHY IPAD MINI — The full iPad experience designed to fit in one hand. With an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, powerful A15 Bionic chip, 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage, USB-C connectivity, and ultrafast Wi-Fi. Take notes, mark up documents, and edit photos and videos.
- IPADOS + APPS — iPadOS makes iPad more productive, intuitive, and versatile. With iPadOS, run multiple apps at once, use Apple Pencil to write in any text field with Scribble, and edit and share photos. iPad mini comes with essential apps like Safari, Messages, and Keynote, with over a million more apps available on the App Store.
- FAST WI-FI CONNECTIVITY — Fast Wi-Fi keeps you connected at home, work, school, or wherever you go with your iPad.
- PERFORMANCE AND STORAGE — The A15 Bionic chip delivers powerful performance and blazing-fast graphics. And with all-day battery life, iPad mini is always ready for any task or project. Choose from 64GB or 256GB storage options depending on the room you need for apps, music, movies, and more.
- APPLE PENCIL AND SMART FOLIO — With Apple Pencil (2nd generation), iPad mini transforms into the world’s best note‑taking device. To protect your iPad mini and easily prop it up, you can use the slim Smart Folio covers, available in five colors. Accessories sold separately.
10. Apple iPad Air (4th Generation, 2020)
While the newer Air models have since been released, the Air (4th Generation) remains a viable option for artists. It features a 10.9-inch display and incredible performance due to the A14 Bionic chip. Supporting the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), this model makes for an excellent drawing experience.
A blending of affordability and performance makes this iPad an attractive option, especially if you’re looking for a device that handles drawing well without breaking the bank.
- Stunning 10.9-Inch Liquid Retina Display with True Tone and P3 Wide Color
- A14 Bionic Chip with Neural Engine - 802.11AX Wi-Fi 6 - Wide Stereo Audio
- 12MP Back Camera, 7MP FaceTime HD Front Camera - Up to 10 Hours of Battery Life
- Touch ID for Secure Authentication - USB-C Connector for Charging and Accessories
- Support for Magic Keyboard, Smart Keyboard Folio, and Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best iPad for Drawing
When searching for the best iPad for drawing, several factors come into play. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:
1. Your Budget
Determine how much you are willing to spend before delving into different models. While the iPad Pro offers top-tier technology and features, there are more affordable options like the standard iPad and iPad Mini that also provide excellent drawing capabilities.
2. Display Size and Quality
The display is crucial for artists. Look for models with Retina or Liquid Retina displays for vibrant colors and high resolution. Consider how large you want your tablet to be based on your preferences for portability versus a bigger canvas.
3. Compatibility with Apple Pencil
The Apple Pencil is an essential tool for drawing on an iPad. Ensure that the model you choose supports the version of the Pencil that best suits your needs (1st or 2nd generation).
4. Processing Power
For more complex drawing tasks, choose an iPad with a powerful chip, like the M1 or M2, as they can handle demanding apps without lag. If you are a hobbyist, the A13 or A14 chip may be sufficient.
5. Storage Capacity
Consider the amount of storage you’ll need, particularly if you plan to work with large files or multiple applications. Higher storage options come with a higher price tag, so balance your needs and budget.
6. Additional Features
Look for extra features that may enhance your drawing experience, such as ProMotion technology for smoother visuals, or features like the Magic Keyboard if you plan to use the iPad for multitasking.
Conclusion
In 2024, the choice of the best iPad for drawing comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Each of the ten products discussed in this article has its own strengths and weaknesses, catering to various budgets and artistic requirements. Whether you need the highest performance with the iPad Pro, a more budget-friendly option like the iPad (9th Generation), or a portable solution like the iPad Mini, there is an iPad that will meet your drawing needs.
Make sure to weigh your options carefully, and consider what features matter most for your art style. In making your decision, investing in an iPad for drawing can transform your creative process and open up a world of artistic possibilities.
Last update on 2024-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.