The iPad has come a long way since it was first introduced in 2010. Its name back then was a point of ridicule but consumers soon ate their words once the iPad showed what it was truly capable of. Today, the best iPad for digital art is a must-have for aspiring artists and professionals alike.
Over a decade has passed and the iPad continues to be a relevant source of entertainment as well as a tool for productivity. Check out the latest iPad models that you can use for creativity.
Best iPad for Digital Art: 2021 Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro
With a display of 12.9 inches, the 2021 Apple iPad Pro is the best iPad for digital art. Just think that standard laptops have a screen size of 13 inches. Not only does this iPad give you more space for creations but it actually boasts an amazing display—Liquid Retina XDR.
Using P3 wide color as well as True Tone technology, artists get richer and more saturated colors. You can also play with contrasts and brightness with precision. For an even better artistic experience, the 2021 Apple iPad Pro uses the Apple M1 Chip. You can expect amazing speed and awesome graphics.
For artists who get in the zone, it’s important to keep working without interruptions. Good thing the 2021 Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro has long battery life.
Artists can experiment with digital art and captured images as this iPad comes with a 10MP ultra-wide camera as well as a 12MP wide camera. It also has a LiDAR scanner for a more immersive AR experience.
For Newbies: 2021 Apple iPad Mini
If you’re not quite sure yet if you are ready to dabble with digital art for the long haul, check out the 2021 Apple iPad Mini. This iPad allows you to explore your creativity without having to be tied down to digital art.
The 2021 Apple iPad Mini has an 8.3-inch display that features Liquid Retina, wide color, and True Tone technology. So you can still expect amazing colors and lines when you create your digital art with this mini iPad.
This device is perfect for artists who are on the go. Not only is it lightweight but it also offers support for the Apple Pencil (sold separately). The pen magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad mini, so you can instantly start sketching or drawing your vision when inspiration strikes.
Another accessory that pairs nicely with the iPad mini is the Smart Folio. This allows you to create art at an angle. The folio can be used as a stand so you don’t have to draw with the iPad laying flat on the table or resting on your hand or lap.
The 2021 Apple iPad Mini comes with 2 memory options: 64GB or 256GB. You don’t ever have to worry about your artwork and other files not being saved. This iPad also comes with front and back cameras, both of which are 12MP.
The Best iPad for Digital Art’s BFF: Apple Pencil
Just like an artist needs a pen for paper, an iPad needs its pencil—the Apple Pencil, that is. There are currently two types of Apple Pencils, the 1st Generation and the 2nd Generation. Make sure to pick the right one, which is whichever is compatible with your iPad.
The two iPads above works with the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation). It weighs less than an ounce, so you don’t have to worry about your hands getting too tired. It measures 6.53 inches and has a diameter of 0.35 inches, which makes the Apple Pencil similar to other regular pens.
Although it’s possible to use other tech pens on the iPad, there’s quite nothing quite like the Apple Pencil. It is designed specifically for the iPad after all. For one, it automatically pairs with the iPad and attaches magnetically to it.
The most important feature of the Apple Pencil is its performance. It can deliver precise lines and dots, right down to the pixel. With very low latency, the Apple Pencil is perfect for sketching, coloring, drawing, and even writing. You shouldn’t experience lags wherein your pen is already at the end of the tablet but the drawing is still somewhere halfway.
A convenient aspect of the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil that the 1st generation doesn’t have is Bluetooth charging. You just attach the pencil to your iPad and you’re good to go. That’s one less wire to bring if you are doing art on the go. What’s more, either Apple Pencil boasts fast-charging—15 seconds can give you a 30-minute drawing session. The battery life of the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) is 12 hours, and a full charge takes about 15 minutes.
The iPad Advantage
There are, of course, drawing tablets that are designed specifically for digital art. And they offer the same things like an iPad, like getting a hold of multiple art tools (like brushes and highlighters) with just a pen. Or being able to remove mistakes and errors without a simple undo.
But the iPad proves to be a very valuable tool for artists as it offers many advantages, here are a few:
User-Friendliness
Like other Apple products, the iPad is very user-friendly. Even toddlers and kids are able to use an iPad. However, some drawing tablets aren’t as simple to use.
Built-in Camera
Digital art is not just about sketching or drawing. A built-in camera can be very valuable if you want to mix things up, such as taking a dive into augmented reality.
Apple Sync
If you use Apple products, then it will be easy for you to share files or sync your work with your other devices, such as your phone or your laptop. It’s highly convenient and you can keep your digital art organized easily.
Apps and Software
Some drawing tablets are designed specifically for a brand that has its own software. But with the iPad, you are open to try a wide range of applications and software for drawing, image and video editing, and more.
Versatility
Finally, the iPad can do so much more. If you find yourself feeling burnt out from work or you need a little bit of inspiration, look no further. You can access art sites, watch a movie, do your color research, or talk to fellow artists with just one device.
Did you enjoy our tips on the best iPad for digital art? Then be sure to check out our other buying guides, such as the best drawing software or the best drawing pencils for new artists! Thanks for reading!