Best iPad for Artists Reviews
Artists, illustrators, and designers globally have turned to the iPad over other tablets. The iPad combined with apple pencil and drawing apps have proved to be the ultimate tools for artists ready to unleash their creativity in myriads of unthinkable. With the best iPad for artists, you can take your digital art skills to the next level regardless of whether you are a beginner or professional.
Nevertheless, picking the right iPad to grow your masterpiece seems to pose a challenge to many potential users because of the close similarities among iPad tablets. If that best describes your worries, you are not alone. We are pleased to present this detailed article that reviews the top 10 best iPad for artists, a buyers guide, and a comparison table to help you compare features.
Best IPad for Artists Comparison Table
| NO. | PRODUCTS | SPECIFICATIONS |
| 1. | iPad Pro 12.9 (2021) | Style: WIFI only Storage/RAM: 128GB/8GB Display Brightness: 1000 nits Weight: 2.65 pounds Resolution: 2732×2048 pixels Stylus: Apple Pen 2 Magnitudes: 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches |
| 2. | Apple iPad (7th generation) | Style: Wifi+Cellular Resolution: 1620 x 2160 pixels Storage/RAM: 128GB/3GB Diplay Brightness: 500 nits Compatible Stylus: Apple pencil 1 Weight: 1.8 pounds Dimensions: 8 x 6 x 10 inches |
| 3. | iPad 10.2 (2019) | Style: Wi-Fi Resolution: 1620 x 2160 pixels Storage/RAM: 32GB/3GB Stylus Support: Apple pencil 1 Weight: 1.1 pounds Measurement: 10.35 x 7.28 x 1.93 inches |
| 4. | Apple iPad mini 5 (Renewed) | Style: WIFI Storage/ RAM: 256GB/3GB Chipset: A12 Bionic Resolution: 1536 x 2048 pixels Weight: 10.6 ounces Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.71 x 1.89 inches |
| 5. | iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 5th gen) | Style: Wi‑Fi + Cellular Storage/RAM: 128GB/8GB Resolution: 2048 x 2732 pixels Brightness: 1000 – 1600 nits Weight: 2.65 pounds Dimensions: 11.04 x 8.46 0.25 inches |
| 6. | iPad Pro 11 (2021) | Style: WIFI Resolution: 1668 x 2388 pixels Storage/RAM: 128GB/8GB Weight: 1 pound Sizes: 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.23 inches Compatible Stylus: Apple Pencil 2 |
| 7. | iPad mini 5 – 7.9-inch | Style: WIFI Storage/RAM: 256GB/3GB Resolution: 1536 x 2048 pixels Weight: 0.66 pounds Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 1 Dimensions: 8 x 5.3 x 0.24 inches |
| 8. | iPad 10.2 (2020) | Style: Wi-Fi Resolution: 1620 x 2160 pixels Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 1 Weight:1.08 pounds Sizes: 9.8 x 6.8 x 0.29 inches Storage/RAM: 128GB/3GB |
| 9. | Apple iPad Air 4 | Style: WIFI only Storage/RAM: 64GB/4GB Weight: 1 Pound Measurement: 9.74 X 7 X 0.24 Inches Resolution: 1640 X 2360 Pixels Brightness: 500 Nits Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 2 |
| 10. | Apple iPad 9.7 (2018) | Style: Wifi Resolution: 1536 X 2048 Pixels Storage/RAM: 128GB/2GB Weight: 1.03 Lbs Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 1 Sizes: 6.67 X 0.3 X 9.45 Inches |
Leading Top 10 Best IPad for Artists
1. IPad Pro 12.9 (2021)
2021 iPad Pro (12.9) is the best iPad for creative professionals and artists. It combines a 12.9-inch (diagonal) XDR display, the fastest processor ever put into a mobile device, and ultra-fast M1 chip technology to make it the fastest drawing tablet. Further, ProCamera, Wide Color display, and a 12.9-inch display with True Tone technology and P3 wide color thus allow for true-to-life imagery that users can use to explore 3D geospatial data.
Meanwhile, this particular version of the iPad Pro supports Apple pencil and real-time wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Then again, a new design incorporates the all-day battery life and the compatibility an artist needs to connect through USB-C and thunderbolts to an incredible array of accessories.
SPECS
- Style: WIFI only
- Storage/RAM: 128GB/8GB
- Operating system: iPadOS 14.5.1
- Chipset: Apple M1
- Display Brightness: 1000 nits
- Weight: 2.65 pounds
- Resolution: 2732×2048 pixels
- Stylus: Apple Pen 2
- Sizes: 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches
FEATURES
- 12.9’’ liquid retina XDR mini-LED LCD
- USB-C connector plus thunderbolt for external accessories
- Compatibility for latest apple pencil
- Supports smart keyboards and Bluetooth keyboards
Pros
- Ideal pixel density for artists
- True Tone color and accuracy display
- Stunning large screen display
- Slim and portable style
Cons
- A bit expensive
2. Apple IPad (7th Generation)
Experience your creativity with a 10.2″ iPad, including the Lightning Connector for charging and more compatible accessories and a Lightning Charging Dock. The FireWire 800-based Smart Keyboard, and Apple Pencil bring more creative possibilities, making a drawing that much easier. At the same time, Touch ID allows you to sign in to your accounts like mail quickly, Twitter, Facebook, and iTunes without memorizing passwords. Further, the 10-hour battery life will keep you connected all day, while the cellular data offer unlimited browsing away from home.
SPECS
- Style: Wifi+Cellular
- Resolution: 1620 x 2160 pixels
- Storage/RAM: 128GB/3GB
- Diplay Brightness: 500 nits
- Compatible Stylus: 1st generation apple pencil
- Battery: Li-Po 8827 mAh , inbuilt
- Chipset: Apple A10 fusion
- Weight: 1.8 pounds
- Dimensions: 8 x 6 x 10 inches
FEATURES
- Compatibility with smart keyboards and apple pencil
- Fingerprint sensor for secure and apple pay
- Built-in 10-hour standby battery
- Internet connectivity via Wi-Fi and cellular data
Pros
- Scratch resistance screen
- 4k video quality display
- Facetime camera facilitates video calls
- Affordable
Cons
- Non-expendable storage, no card slot
3. IPad 10.2 (2019)
Make calls, take notes, and doodle on the go with the Apple iPad 10.2. the handset brings all the power of iOS in a sleek new package. You surf the internet while delivering higher-definition video recording quality. Artist drawings are a great way to communicate creative ideas and convey your vision. Most remarkable, the iPad offers up to 20% better battery life than the previous generation with support for MIMO, Wi-Fi Hotspot, AirDrop, AirPlay, and more.
SPECS
- Style: Wi-Fi
- Chipset: Apple A10 fusion
- Operating System: iPadOS
- Resolution: 1620 x 2160 pixels
- Storage/RAM: 32GB/3GB
- Secure ID: Touch ID sensor
- Stylus support: Apple pencil 1 st Gen
- Battery: 8827 mAh inbuilt Li-Po
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
- Sizes: 10.35 x 7.28 x 1.93 inches
FEATURES
- 10.2-inch liquid retina display
- 1st Apple pencil support
- Connectivity to smart and Bluetooth keyboards
- 1080p HD video quality recording
Pros
- Fast processor speed
- Supports creative drawing apps
- Built-in powerful cameras
- Touch ID convenience
- All-day battery
Cons
- 32GB storage is little
4. Apple IPad Mini 5 (Renewed)
Fully equipped with a Retina display, A12 Bionic chip, and Facetime HD front camera, the iPad Mini 7.9 will be the complete iPad with built-in stereo speakers. Enjoy listening to music or chatting on FaceTime HD while drawing your favorite artists’ illustrations in AirPrint or SketchBook Pro. Now you can draw on a moment in time with the iPad Mini 7.9 and share it with your friends or colleagues. Gladly, this great tablet for professional artists includes a fingerprint sensor for secure authentification and apple pay.
SPECS
- Style : Wi‑Fi
- Storage/ RAM: 256GB/3GB
- Chipset: A12 Bionic
- Display Size: 7.9 inch retina
- Resolution: 1536 x 2048 pixels
- Operating System: IOS 12, Upgradable
- Weight: 10.6 ounces
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.71 x 1.89 inches
- Secure ID: Fingerprint Sensor
- Battery: Li-Ion 5124 mAh, Built-in
FEATURES
- Built-in rechargeable 10hour battery
- Wireless communication via Wi-Fi
- Lightning connector for external accessories
- High-quality stereo speakers and facetime HD front camera
- Shared augmented reality experiences
Pros
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Bug-proof screen
- Scratch resistance
- Supports convenience artistic apps
Cons
- No NFC, no radio support
5. IPad Pro (12.9-inch, 5th Gen)
Get the most innovative iPad ever! iPad Pro 12.9 carries the latest innovation in technology to help beginners and professional artists get more done. TrueDepth camera system with Ultra-Wide camera and Center Stage. New Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology brings an incredible crispness, color, and contrast that a tablet has never seen before. The iPad Pro 12.9 delivers a world of apps for all your creative endeavors, including iMovie, Keynote, Final Cut Pro X.
Best-in-class tiny iPad is like no other. The new iPad Pro combines all that an artist wants. The tablet supports an apple pencil stylus, compatibility with multiple keyboards and drawing apps, you can take your artwork to the next level. With a 10-hour battery life and an Apple M1 chip processor, you can share your art over the internet through a device’s ultra-fast Wi-Fi connection. Besides wireless Wi-Fi browsing, you can always connect via cellular data and share your artwork away from home. Face ID to help you protect your privacy, and Apple Pay lets you make payments with your new device.
SPECS
- Style: Wi‑Fi + Cellular
- Operating system: iPadOS 14.5.1
- Chipset: Apple M1
- Storage/RAM: 128GB/8GB
- Resolution: 2048 x 2732 pixels
- Brightness: 1000 – 1600 nits
- Secure ID: Face ID
- Weight: 2.65 pounds
- Dimensions: 11.04 x 8.46 0.25 inches
FEATURES
- 12.9″ liquid retina XDR display
- Non-removable Li-Po (40.88 Wh) battery
- Super-fast wired and wireless connections
- M1 chip quality processor
Pros
- Amazing graphic displays
- Multitasking convenience
- High brightness and contrast
- Superfast browsing speed
Cons
- No card slot for external storage
6. IPad Pro 11 (2021)
Start your artistic journey with the world’s best iPad for artists and creative professionals – the all-new iPad Pro 11. The tablet incorporates a new 11 inches (1668 x 2388 pixels) Liquid Retina display, designed to deliver even more vivid colors and realistic text for your favorite design apps, including Photoshop and Illustrator. More colors, wider viewing angles, and more room for content are just a few reasons you will love this new iPad. The tablet features an Apple M1 processor for graphics and is fully compatible with Apple Pencil 2, making your artistic drawings blissful.
iPad Pro 11 features an ultra-high resolution dynamic screen with a high contrast ratio that is 50% brighter than the previous model and twice as sharp. Moreover, it supports face ID authentication sensors for privacy and safe apple payment with no passwords. iPad Pro 11 leaves no room for boredom. The five studio-quality microphones and 4 stereo speakers keep you on top of digital sounds.
SPECS
- Style: WIFI
- Resolution: 1668 x 2388 pixels
- Storage/RAM: 128GB/8GB
- Weight: 1 pound
- Dimensions: 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.23 inches
- Operating System: iPadOS 14.5.1, upgradable
- Battery: non-removable ,7538 mAh Li-Po
- Processor chip: Apple M1
- Connectivity: USB-C , WIFI, Bluetooth 5.0
- Compatible Stylus: Apple Pencil 2
FEATURES
- M1 chip processors for running apps and graphic intensive games
- Runs on iPad specific intuitive iPadOS
- Supports high responsive apple pencil 2
- Pairs with Bluetooth keyboards and magic keyboards
Pros
- Supports powerful accessories
- Magnificient video conferencing tool
- Superfast thunderbolt connections
- Ultrafast Wi-Fi browsing speeds
Cons
- Cameras look misplaced
7. IPad Mini 5 – 7.9-inch
Great for artists. Art lovers. People who like to watch videos on the go. Apple’s latest model, iPad min 5 features a smaller and lighter 7.9-inch display, a front camera with auto HDR photo mode, and a faster A12 Bionic chip. All this with a larger battery, faster LTE MIMO, and FaceTime HD front camera with Auto HDR that lets you share photos in glorious low light conditions.-
Get all the advantages of a larger iPad, but in this tiny package. Without breaking the bank! The Apple iPad mini 5 can create amazing digital art in full HD. It’s easy to browse, edit, and share with iWork and iLife applications. You’ll never need to upgrade your laptop again. The tablet offers you the best of both worlds when you use a Split Screen with FaceTime or a video chat app.
Now you can draw anything using a pressure-sensitive apple pencil 2 ever, or type your arts on multiple supported smart keyboards. Finally, this iPad grants you the power to secure your privacy with a fingerprint sensor and make online payments without the need for passwords.
SPECS
- Style: WIFI
- Operating system: iOS 12.1.3,expandable
- Storage/RAM: 256GB/3GB
- Resolution: 1536 x 2048 pixels
- Weight: 0.66 pounds
- Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 1
- Dimensions: 8 x 5.3 x 0.24 inches
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0. WIFI, USB 2.0, lightning
- Secure sensor: Touch ID
- Processor chip: A12 Bionic
- Battery: Built-in Li-Ion 5124 mAh
FEATURES
- HD FaceTime camera with Auto HDR
- Native 1080p video quality support
- Built-in Li-Ion 5124 mAh rechargeable battery
- 7.9-inch retina display with TrueTone
- A12 Biotic chip processor
Pros
- Reliable battery life
- Convenience apps selection
- Compact and lightweight
- Works with art and design apps
Cons
- Lacks USB-C
- No support for apple pen 2
8. IPad 10.2 (2020)
Meanwhile, the iPad 10.2 (2020) features a docked Lightning port that allows you to connect all your standard accessories, like keyboards and mice. You also get a stainless steel back shell for improved performance. When you purchase, the package is shipped complete from a rechargeable battery, charger, stand… all at a super low price. Finally, touch ID secures your device pricey from intruders and helps you make quick and easy apple pay without entering any passcode.
SPECS
- Style: Wi-Fi
- Resolution: 1620 x 2160 pixels
- Chipset: A12 Bionic
- Stylus support: Apple Pencil 1
- Weight:1.08 pounds
- Magnitude: 9.8 x 6.8 x 0.29 inches
- Storage/RAM: 128GB/3GB
- Operating System: iPadOS 14, upgradable
- SECURE ID: Fingerprint Sensor
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi, USB 2.0
- Battery: Built-in Li-ion (32.4 Wh)
FEATURES
- 10.2-inch retina display
- Touch id sensor for online payments
- Works with smart and Bluetooth keyboards
- Supports 4 HD video recording
Pros
- Secured with touch ID
- Incredible note-taking experience
- Affordable
- Slim and portable
Cons
- No support for apple pencil 2
9. Apple IPad Air 4
Apple iPad Air 4 is the best new iPad for artists. The new A14 Bionic processor with Neural Engine offers impressive graphics and processing power across all your apps, games, and music. Get the most out of your work with an advanced display, powerful processor, and a great support system like Apple Pencil 2 smart and Bluetooth keyboards. You can always choose your color preference since its available in silver, space gray, gold, and rose gold shades.
What’s more, iPad Air 4 helps music artists record all videos in 4K HD quality. Yet again, the device guarantees privacy and security with Touch ID for secure authentication and Apple Pay. Therefore, you go straight to your payment solution, whether a credit card or Apple Pay. Finally, iPad has a 10-hour battery life, a USB-C connector for charging and accessories, and wide stereo audio.
SPECS
- Style: Wi-Fi
- Storage/RAM: 64GB/4GB
- Weight: 1 pound
- Dimension: 9.74 x 7 x 0.24 inches
- Resolution: 1640 x 2360 pixels
- Processor chip: Apple A14 Bionic
- Brightness: 500 nits
- Display: 10.9’’ liquid retina IPS LCD
- Operating System: iPadOS 14.1, upgradable
- Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 2
- Connectivity: USB-C,Bluetooth,WIFI
FEATURES
- Built-in Li-Ion 7606 mAh Li-Po battery
- Supports apple stylus, smart and Bluetooth keyboards
- Touch ID secure authentification sensor
- USB-C connectivity for eternal accessories
Pros
- Reliable Wi-Fi speed
- Elegant design
- Multiple color preferences
- Impressive digital sounds
Cons
- Lacks face ID
10. Apple IPad 9.7 (2018)
You can turn your iPad into a daily artist workstation. Apple iPad 9.7’’ uses a powerful A10 fusion processor, M10 coprocessor that gives artists the real-time performance connected via Bluetooth or surfing online via 4G LTE WIFI. Besides, the tablet features a 9.7″ Multi-Touch Retina Display with 2048 x 1536 resolution, pixel density of 264 PPI, and 32 gigabytes of memory. Further, its Front-Facing TrueDepth camera system with enabled Face ID unlocks the screen, authenticating for online payments, and launches your apps in seconds.
Designed with the latest technology and user experience, ios 9 delivers the most sophisticated mobile system ever. The iOS 11.3 has dramatically improved reliability, responsiveness, overall performance. Moreover, it includes many new features: Siri Shortcuts, Apple Pay Cash 2.0, Continuity Camera Remote Control, etc. The tablet for artists supports Apple pencil with Night Shift technology draw, write easily on your screen, with no glare ever.
SPECS
- Style: Wifi
- Resolution: 1536 X 2048 Pixels
- Processor Chip: Apple A10 Fusion
- Storage/RAM: 128GB/2GB
- Operating System: IOS 11.3, Upgradable
- Connectivity: Wifi, Bluetooth, Lightening, USB 2.0
- Weight: 1.03 Lbs
- Sizes: 6.67 X 0.3 X 9.45 Inches
FEATURES
- 9.7 inches screen display with 2048 x 1536 resolution
- Built-in li-po 8827 mah with 8 hours life
- Adjustable brightness with on/off nightshift control
- Responsive authentification fingerprint sensor ID
Pros
- Worthy the price
- Elegant in design
- Cost-effective
- Fast and productive A10 fusion chip
Cons
- Apple pencil retails separately
Buyers Guide
With the advent of the iPad and its apps, artists have a lot to choose from. And there are a lot of options available. But how do you know which one is best for you? It’s not easy to find an iPad that will meet your needs. When choosing the ideal device for your artwork, consider the iPad with the following features.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
Apple Pencil is a digital tool that helps artists create sketches, drawings, designs, and illustrations. There are two apple styli; first and second generation. When buying an iPad, consider the generation supported based on your needs. Firstly, not all iPad support stylus pens. Secondly, while the first-generation apple pencil requires you to stick the stylus on the iPad using the lightning connector, if your iPad only uses USB-C, you will need to buy a lightning port adaptor.
Similarly, if the budget allows, it is commendable to buy an iPad compatible with send generation apple pencil, which has various advantages. Some of these merits are that the apple pen 2 connects via Bluetooth, its rechargeable eaning it will not consume iPad charge.
RAM and Storage Capacity
How does Ram affect your artistic creativity? Well RAM facilitates processes by responding fast to commands, opening apps faster, and handling heavy-duty tasks. Therefore, the higher the RAM, the better. Tabs with over 4GB RAM create more layers and sketch faster on drawing apps like procreate and others.
Similarly, you’ll need a device with big storage that will hold a huge drawing and graphic app for advanced artists. Most apps increase in storage capacity taken with time as you use. However, if you want more ram and storage, it will attract more cost on iPad, so a beginner might consider buying an average iPad. Ipad with 64GB and above is just enough for a starter, while 128GB up is ideal for professionals.
Battery Life
Battery life is the most important thing to consider when buying any device. While there are various types of batteries, the best iPad for the artist should allow you to work even when far from the power source or hen on the field. Super quality iPad has impressive battery life that lets you use it for a whole day before you need to recharge. A device that can serve you for 6 to 10 hours while surfing the internet, using Bluetooth or external keyboards is the best option.
Connectivity
If you have a flexible budget, consider buying a tablet that supports both Wi-Fi and cellular connection. You will find the device leveled either ‘WIFI style’ or ‘WIFI + cellular’’. The greatest advantage with the latter is that you can share your drawings, illustrations, and other artwork over the internet on the go or when on outdoor activities. This means that internet access is not limited to Wi-Fi, but you can use cellular data when away from Wi-Fi connectivity. Although the iPad with built-in LTE attracts more cost, it will bring flexibility advantages if you can afford it.
Apps Compatibility
Before you place the order on your next iPad, research to know whether it supports your preferable drawing apps. Moreover, consider that works with most outstanding artistic apps to enhance versatility. Therefore, the compatibility with apps like Adobe Freso, ArtRage, Procreate, adobe photoshop sketch, etc.
FAQ
What Makes the IPad Better for the Artist than Laptops, PC, Desktops, and Other Smartphones?
The iPad is a revolutionary device that allows artists to create and share their artwork. The iPad can be used for many different purposes, from sharing art online to creating videos for YouTube. What works best for the arts between iPad and computers has been debated for years. The simple answer in favor of the iPad is that it allows artists to do things they could never do on a computer, like use a brush or paint on canvas or draw with charcoal.
How IPads With Glare and Parallax Affect Artists?
IPads with glare and parallax effects can create an annoying experience for artists working on a stage. Artist’s eyes are not used to it since they focus on the stage lights, making them more sensitive than normal people. Therefore, artists need special tools to help them without causing any distraction or confusion. This issue can be solved with the help of an iPad with a Glare Filter or IPS screen. A glare filter blocks the glare effect, while an IPS screen filters the parallax effect.
Does IPad for Arts Need to Have a High Screen Latency?
A screen with high latency is responsive and responds most accurately. The reason artists are attracted to this technology is that it offers them the possibility of working faster and better on their iPad. Great iPad with ProMotion technology, huge RAM, and super processor ensures you are on top of your workflow without experiencing laxity.
Conclusion
Whether a beginner or not, choosing the right iPad can be quite confusing. Fortunately, in this article, we focused on reviewing the best iPad for the artist. Besides, we have also explained features and stylus recommendations to bring impressive experience to your artwork. When purchasing the appropriate iPad for your needs, check our comparison table for specifications like storage, RAM, screen resolution, pen support before making the final decisions.
