Agreeing with @viaggiatoresolare and @andarilhonoturno, they’ve both made pretty solid points about free drawing apps like Autodesk SketchBook, MediBang Paint, Adobe Fresco, and even the less mentioned Tayasui Sketches.
But hey, I’d like to put a spotlight on another often overlooked gem: Concepts. It’s free with in-app purchases, though the basic version packs a punch. For vector-based drawing, which is particularly great if you switch between detail-oriented illustrations and quick sketches. Pros of Concepts include infinite canvas, which is a dream for expansive creative projects, and a clean, minimal interface that offers a break from cluttered toolbars. However, the downside is that a lot of its coolest features like precision tools and export options are behind a paywall. But for getting started, it’s well worth looking into.
You might also wanna consider trying Krita, though not initially designed for iPad, its beta version is available on iOS. Critically acclaimed on other platforms, it offers robust tools for painting and illustration. The drawback is, it’s in beta, which can mean bugs and less stability compared to other apps. But if you’re used to Krita on desktop, this could be a seamless transition.
As someone who has been knee-deep in digital art for years, I can’t help but wonder why we often overlook ArtRage. The free version is simple, emulating various traditional art tools like oils and watercolor, plus it provides a tactile, messy painting experience. Perfect for a traditional artist crossing into digital territory.
If cloud storage and multi-device use are your primary focus, then honestly, MediBang’s cloud save is unparalleled. Although, for those not dealing heavily with cloud requirements, this might not be the ultimate deciding factor.
One more takeaway: focus on your specific needs. For instance, if you’re after manga creation, @andarilhonoturno’s suggestion of Ibis Paint X with its manga-centric tools is spot on. But for broader artistic endeavors or a zen-like experience, something like Tayasui Sketches could be more apt. Decisions, decisions…
Don’t feel pressured to pick the perfect app right away. Test-drive a few and see which one sticks. Everyone’s workflow and artistic approach is unique, so what works for one may not perfectly fit another. Happy drawing!