Best iPads for Artists

Artists use various mediums to create art, from traditional tools like pens and pencils to digital media. The iPad can combine the texture of traditional styles with the ease of modern conveniences, but not all iPads are created equal. Some are better suited than others at supprting artists with their hardware.

That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to help you determine which iPad is best for your needs as an artist. Every artist is unique, just like their work, and you need the tools to match. From screen size to storage space, take a look at what iPads have to offer digital artists.

Best iPads For Digital Artists

Editor’s Choice

Apple iPad Air (5th Generation)

An Artist’s Reliable Tablet

With a Liquid Retina display, your work will never look more pristine when displayed. In this smaller package, you get all the perks of a powerful iPad with the convenience of a less cumbersome device.

Pros

Moderate price
Fantastic performance
Multiple color options

With the iPad Air (5th Generation), you get a powerful processor that can handle your workload as an artist. Using the same M1 chip found in the iPad Pro and a Mac, you’ll take your portable work to new heights. It also boasts a strong battery life and works well when on the go.

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If you’re a college student that’s constantly moving around or someone who likes to draw during their commute or downtime, then this is the iPad for you. While it doesn’t boast the most advanced specs, it does well to hold its own and deliver top-notch performance.

Best For On The Go

Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation)

Good Things In Small Packages

The iPad Mini is capable of opening multiple apps, using Wi-Fi efficiently, and utilizes the A15 Bionic chipset to deliver a great experience. Artists who are on the go will love the convenience of the small size.

Pros

Easily portable
Affordable compared to other iPads
Powerful chipset

Cons

Considerably smaller screen compared to other iPads

The iPad Mini is perfect for artists on the go who need the equivalent of a digital sketchpad. If you have another drawing tablet you prefer to use but don’t want to travel with it, an iPad Mini can act as your on the go device and sync your work.

With a smaller screen, it’s easier to pack this iPad in your travel bag and use it anywhere. Don’t be deceived by its compact size! The iPad Mini has a powerful processor that allows it to run smoothly and keep up with your artistic talents no matter where life takes you.

Premium Pick

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2022)

An Artist’s Best Friend

This Apple iPad has a 12.9″ display and boasts incredibly powerful performance with the M2 chip. The Liquid Retina XDR display is stunning and pristine, making all of your art pop.

Pros

Larger screen
Enhanced cameras and battery

Cons

Higher cost
Limited color options

The iPad Pro 12.9 inch released in 2022 as the sixth generation in the lineup. It boasts top-of-the-line performance and featured rounded corners for a seamless, curved design. The larger screen gives you more surface space to work with as an artist, and the sleek design emphasizes modernity.

There are several storage options up to 2TB, which is more than enough space to store your files and finished work for years to come. With a magnetic connector for the Apple Pencil installed, convenience and digital art blend together for a creative and efficient experience. Now you only have to decide which art program to use!

Best For Multi-Tasking

Apple iPad (10th Generation)

Open All The Apps

With powerful specs, the iPad 10th Generation tablet serves as a great multi-tasking tool for artists. With plenty of storage and powerful chip set, you can create your finest masterpiece here.

Pros

Powerful specs like the A14 Bionic chip
Great for multi-tasking

Cons

Only up to 256GB of storage

Artists tend to multi-task, from searching for art references online to sketching outlines, testing color palettes, and more. The iPad 10th Generation is designed specifically to help with multi-tasking so you can do everything you need to all at once. No more will you need to open and close tabs as you go – leave them open while you work!

While the storage is limited to 64GB and 256GB options only, the latter option has enough space for you to run iOS and save your work for some time. When space is limited, you can start deleting older files that take up space while saving the finished piece separately.

Best Value

Apple iPad (9th Generation)

Artist-Friendly Budget Option

With the powerful A13 Bionic chip, the Retina display looks great! The 9th Generation iPad is great for any artist on a budget who doesn’t want to sacrifice quality for price.

Pros

Lower Price
Powerful hardware

Cons

No Liquid Retina display
Not as powerful as the A15 Bionic chip

The ninth-generation iPad is the previous generation, meaning you can save a great deal on similar specs. If you’re on a budget (as most artists are), then this iPad is worth considering. It doesn’t have the Liquid Retina display, but the screen is still stunning to showcase your artwork on.

Don’t sacrifice quality to save money – the iPad 9th Generation promotes nearly the same powerful specifications of its successor. With a lower price tag, it’s worth it if you need an iPad quickly or want to try out your creative talents on digital media on a well sized screen for travel.

Best Investment

Apple iPad Pro (5th Generation)

Maximize Size And Storage

With a 12.9 inch Liquid Retina XDR display, your art will shine like never before. The flagship iPad Pro fifth generation model comes with the M1 chipset to deliver supreme visials and enhanced performance.

Pros

Large screen
Plenty of storage

The iPad Pro 5th Generation has state-of-the-art specifications that make it a force to be reckoned with. With a capable 12.9 inch Liquid Retina XDR display, your artwork will be a sight to behold. Powered by the M1 chip, the device delivers supreme performance and splendid visuals.

The downside is that you will pay a significantly higher price for this flagship model. However, if you’re a professional artist that’s familiar with the Apple family of products, it’s well worth the investment. The sleek design and streamlined processes make it a digital artist’s best friend, especially with the increased storage options.

FAQ

Which Apple Pencil Should I Get?

The Apple Pencil you decide on will vary depending on the model iPad you purchase. There are four Apple Pencils to choose from, and each is compatible with different models. You can expect to pay anywhere between $79-$129 for the Apple Pencil.

Which iPad Is Best For Drawing?

While all the iPads listed here are capable of functioning as an art tablet, the best one depends on what you need. If you want something that will last as a full-time art tablet, it’s worth investing in a newer model. If you want a smaller tablet for when you travel, the iPad Mini is a good choice.