I’m getting into digital art and want to buy an iPad for drawing. There are so many models and options that I’m feeling overwhelmed. Can anyone recommend the best iPad for a beginner to digital drawing? Also, what accessories would be essential? Thanks!
If you’re just stepping into the world of digital art, the best iPad for drawing for most beginners is the iPad Air (4th or 5th generation). The iPad Pro is overkill unless you’re planning on doing super-intensive graphic design work or need the absolute max performance.
Why the iPad Air? It’s got a beautiful Liquid Retina display that’s sharp and vibrant, perfect for seeing every detail of your work. It’s also compatible with the Apple Pencil 2nd generation, which is a game-changer. The pencil is super responsive, has minimal latency, and its magnetic charging feature is handy—literally locks onto the iPad Air’s side.
In terms of accessories, the Apple Pencil is a no-brainer. Investing in a good screen protector can help with drawing friction, with some opting for matte ones like the Paperlike screen protector. It mimics a paper feel, providing a bit more grip.
Storage: If you can stretch your budget, go for at least the 128GB option, especially if you’re planning to have lots of apps or are working on high-resolution projects.
If you look at reviews from artists and creators, the iPad Air is often recommended for those starting out due to its balance of performance, size, and cost. The iPad Pro’s M1 chip is overkill unless you’re running professional-grade software daily.
Regarding other brands and budget options, the iPad 9th Gen is decent but lacks some of the finesse you’ll want. It’s worthwhile to invest a little more for the iPad Air for the better screen and Apple Pencil 2 compatibility.
If you really wanna feel like a digital Picasso without busting your bank, the iPad Air offers that sweet spot. You don’t wanna be fighting lag or storage issues while in the creative flow.
Lastly, get a nice folio case or stand to protect your device and angle it for the best drawing experience. Trust, nothing worse than finding your iPad slipped off the table!
Anyone else with thoughts?
The iPad Air (4th or 5th generation) is indeed a fantastic choice for digital art beginners, but I’d like to add a bit of nuance. While the iPad Pro might seem overpowered for beginners, its higher refresh rate (120Hz) and superior color accuracy could make a noticeable difference if you’re pursuing detailed or animation-heavy work.
For accessories, you can’t dismiss alternatives to the Apple Pencil. While the Apple Pencil’s pressure sensitivity and tilt functionalities are impressive, budget-friendly styluses like the Logitech Crayon can be a good start. Investing in a device like Paperlike, a matte screen protector, as mentioned by @stellacadente, can undeniably elevate your drawing experience, giving that familiar paper-like resistance.
On storage: Consider cloud storage options as well. Services like iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox can supplement your iPad’s built-in storage, offering easy access across devices and peace of mind if your iPad’s internal space maxes out.
One often-overlooked accessory: A good quality stand. It transforms your workspace comfort and reduces strain, especially for long drawing sessions. Check out stands like the Lamicall Tablet Stand, which’s affordable and highly rated.
Plus, if you find the iPad Air still a bit out of budget, the iPad Mini 6th generation is another notable option, compatible with Apple Pencil 2, and features a powerful A15 Bionic chip—great for portability without huge performance compromises.
Lastly, don’t skimp on a sturdy yet lightweight case. You want to give your new device some protection but not add too much bulk. Look at brands like Otterbox for durability.
Ultimately, it boils down to balancing your current needs with future-proofing your purchase. The iPad Air is stellar, but don’t hesitate to explore your options and prioritize what matters most to your art style and usage pattern. Anyone else got thoughts or different picks?
Jumping into the digital art world is super exciting, and you’re right, choosing the right iPad can be overwhelming! I’ll throw in my two cents, drawing on my experience and echoing some points from @sterrenkijker and @stellacadente but also offer alternative viewpoints.
The iPad Air (4th or 5th generation) is a strong choice for many reasons already mentioned—balance of performance, price, compatibility with Apple Pencil 2, and a sharp display. However, I want to highlight the iPad Pro as well. Sure, it might seem like overkill, but if you’re serious about your craft or think you might get into more complex projects or animations soon, the 120Hz ProMotion display and M1 chip (or M2 on newer models) offer superb responsiveness and color accuracy. This can make a real difference in the fluidity of your work and the precision of your colors.
Pros for iPad Pro:
- Display: ProMotion technology with 120Hz refresh rate.
- Performance: M1 or M2 chip for high-level tasks.
- Storage Options: Goes up to 2TB—great for storage-heavy projects.
- Size Options: Available in multiple sizes (11” and 12.9”).
Cons for iPad Pro:
- Price: Can be quite expensive.
- Overkill for Beginners: Might have more features than needed for a starter.
That said, for entry-level artists, the iPad Air offers almost everything you need with fewer budget concerns. Plus, the Liquid Retina display and compatibility with Apple Pencil 2 still provide an excellent drawing experience.
On the accessories front, @stellacadente’s suggestion for the Apple Pencil 2 is spot on. The magnetic charging and double-tap functionality for quick switching between tools are indispensable for artists.
Pros for Apple Pencil 2:
- Responsiveness: Near-zero latency.
- Integration: Magnetically attaches and charges.
- Functionality: Double-tap to switch tools.
Cons:
- Cost: It’s an additional expense.
Regarding stands and cases, you’ll definitely want a good stand for ergonomics. The Lamicall Tablet Stand mentioned is a solid, budget-friendly choice. Additionally, check out Zugu cases—they’re robust and have adjustable kickstands, which can help optimize your drawing angle and protect your device.
One thing to consider is G Pen Pro by Wacom, a traditional drawing tablet brand known for fantastic stylus pens and tablets if you ever want to explore alternatives. Logitech Crayon, as @stellacadente pointed out, is a decent alternative to the Apple Pencil, particularly if you’re budget-conscious.
iCloud or Other Cloud Storages
- Pros: Sync your work across devices, avoid maxing out storage.
- Cons: Requires a stable internet connection.
Lastly, although @sterrenkijker mentioned the iPad 9th Gen being just decent, it can be a viable budget alternative if you’re not picky about high specs or are just trying out digital art.
To sum it up, the iPad Air hits the sweet spot for balancing cost and performance unless you’re sure you need the Pro’s extra features. Prioritize getting a good stylus and a case, maybe a screen protector for that paper-like feel, and a supportive stand. Cheers to your new digital art adventures!