I’m an artist looking to upgrade my digital drawing tools. I currently use an older model iPad and it’s starting to lag with my drawing apps. I’m considering an upgrade but not sure which iPad would offer the best experience for digital art. Can anyone share their experiences or suggest the best iPad for drawing?
The iPad Pro is the best choice for drawing if you’re serious about digital art. I’ve been using the 12.9-inch model with the Apple Pencil 2 for a while now, and it’s a game-changer. The ProMotion technology, which gives you a 120Hz refresh rate, makes everything incredibly smooth—no lag at all, even with demanding apps like Procreate and Affinity Designer. Also, the color accuracy and brightness are top-notch, which is essential for any artist.
Comparatively, the iPad Air is also pretty solid, especially the latest version with the M1 chip. It’s more affordable than the Pro but still powerful enough for most drawing tasks. The Apple Pencil 2 is compatible with this model as well, so you won’t miss out on those advanced features like tilt and pressure sensitivity.
I had an older iPad too, and upgrading to the Pro was like night and day. The lag was gone, the display was more vibrant, and the overall experience just felt professional. If you’re upgrading, and price isn’t a huge factor, go for the iPad Pro. If you’re budget-conscious, the iPad Air is your best bet.
Anyone else experienced the difference with ProMotion and the M1 chip? Would love to hear more thoughts.
The iPad Pro is undeniably a powerhouse for artists, but it’s worth considering just how much of that power you actually need. The iPad Pro’s 120Hz ProMotion display is super smooth and great for minimizing lag, but for some artists, the significant price jump might not be entirely justified.
Though @voyageurdubois highlighted the benefits of the iPad Pro, you might find that the latest iPad Air offers much of the same performance at a fraction of the cost. With the M1 chip, the iPad Air delivers impressive power - enough to run intensive drawing apps like Procreate or Adobe Fresco without a hitch. The screen doesn’t have the 120Hz refresh rate, but for many, the 60Hz display is still plenty responsive for drawing tasks.
Don’t forget the iPad 9th generation - it’s more budget-friendly and supports the 1st-gen Apple Pencil. It’s not as flashy as the Pro or Air, but it’s perfectly capable for most drawing needs if you’re cautious about your budget. For artists seeking high resolution and color accuracy without breaking the bank, it delivers a solid performance.
One point of divergence: While ProMotion technology is a standout feature, some artists might find that the real game-changer is actually the Apple Pencil 2. The double-tap features, improved latency, and overall feel make a difference that’s noticeable, whether you’re using an iPad Pro or an iPad Air.
In summary:
- iPad Pro: Best for those needing top-tier performance and features like ProMotion.
- iPad Air: Highly capable with the M1 chip and Apple Pencil 2 support at a more accessible price.
- iPad 9th gen: Budget-friendly option, still great for drawing but with fewer bells and whistles.
Any other artists finding the iPad Air M1 chip sufficient for heavy-duty drawing apps? Would love to hear more real-world experiences!
I’ve been through the upgrade journey myself and here’s an observation that might add another layer to the discussion. While the iPad Pro’s ProMotion tech (120Hz refresh rate) makes for absolutely fluid experience, one con is its hefty price tag. The iPad Air with the M1 chip is a solid alternative—it delivers impressive performance, and in my experience, Procreate and Adobe Fresco run buttery smooth on it.
However, what we might be overlooking here is battery life. The iPad Pro is a beast but drains faster under intensive use. Conversely, I’ve found the iPad Air lasts longer during marathon drawing sessions. This might be a crucial point if you’re not always near a power outlet.
Don’t sleep on the iPad Mini (6th Gen). Yes, it’s smaller (8.3-inch display), but some artists find its portability a massive plus. It’s Apple Pencil 2 compatible too, making on-the-go sketching a breeze. A fellow artist swears by it for quick concept art.
But here’s a dissenting view: Not everyone needs the bleeding edge. The iPad 9th Gen is budget-friendly and supports the 1st-gen Apple Pencil. Though it lacks the raw power of the newer models, it’s still quite capable. The main trade-off would be screen quality and premium features like ProMotion.
Some pros for iPad Air:
- M1 chip offers great performance without Pro-level price.
- Battery life is solid.
- Light and portable, more affordable.
Cons:
- No ProMotion, standard 60Hz display (fine for most but noticeable for some).
- Lesser screen size options compared to Pro models.
For an artist, like with tools, the ‘best’ iPad for drawing is subjective to your workflow and needs. My advice? Step into an Apple store, test them out side by side. See which one feels right in hand. Reading specs is one thing; experiencing the difference is another.
Any other artists using a different setup, like a Wacom tablet or a Surface Pro? I sometimes switch between my iPad and a Wacom Cintiq, depending on the project.
So, looking at the broader picture, consider your primary needs—are you a casual sketcher or a professional illustrator? If portability and battery life are as essential as power, the iPad Air hits a sweet spot. But if uncompromised smoothness and extra features like the ProMotion are non-negotiable, the iPad Pro is unmatched.