If you’re searching for alternative devices to the iPad for drawing for every budget, you’re in the right place. In this blog post, we will cater to the needs of graphic designers, illustrators, and digital artists by exploring a variety of devices that can rival the iPad’s capabilities.
Looking to sketch your way into the digital world but not ready to leap into Apple’s ecosystem with the iPad? Fret not, there’s a whole universe of creative options!
Related: Surface Pro models vs iPad Pro for Drawing & Art (Compared)
First off, let’s dispel the myth that the only path to digital drawing is through Procreate and Apple Pencil. While these two make a dynamic duo, several alternatives offer a comparable, if not an equally exciting, artistic journey.
Visit the 13 Best iPad Alternatives for all purposes, not just drawing.
In this post, we’ll cover every alternative to the iPad for drawing and graphic design specifically, including computer tablets, 2-in-1 tablets, e-ink devices, as well as alternate stylus options to compete with the apple pencil and iPad experience.
See: The Best Procreate Alternatives for Android
- Key Takeaways
- At A Glance – Top iPad Alternatives for Drawing
- Best alternatives to iPad for drawing (for every budget)
- Graphic Tablets: Unconventional iPad Alternatives for Creators
- E-ink Devices: A Unique alternative device type to the iPad for drawing and note-taking
- Don't Overlook App Requirements and Compatibility
- Can I use Procreate on an iPad Alternative?
- Best Apps to Use Instead of Procreate
- Best Drawing Apps to Use on an iPad Alternative
- Conclusion: Unleashing Your Artistic Potential with iPad Alternatives
Key Takeaways
Among the wealth of alternatives, Microsoft Surface Pro 9, Samsung Galaxy S8+, and Lenovo Yoga 9i models stand tall, offering exceptional alternative options to the iPad for your digital drawing needs.
Also see: 5 Best iPads for Artists (Drawing, Digital Art, and more)
Before diving in, though, keep in mind your specific needs. Unless you’re using an advanced drawing app, super advanced RAM over 16GB or the fastest processor might be an overkill.
Instead, focus on your chosen drawing app’s requirements.
Also see: Procreate iPad: 7 Best iPads for Procreate
Speaking of apps, have you thought about what drawing apps you’ll be using? The world of digital sketching isn’t just about hardware; software makes a considerable difference, too.
Alternatives to the iPad for drawing aren’t just Computer tablets
For those who are looking for a note-taking companion that can handle a dash of doodling, e-ink devices could be just the ticket….
These devices, like the reMarkable 2, SuperNote, and Kindle Scribe, are mainly designed for note-taking and annotating PDFs, but also work for drawing.
Also see: reMarkable 2 Vs iPad Pro & Air – Which is better? (Key differences)
However, they offer a canvas for your sketches, albeit in black and white. For a pop of color, there’s the MobiScribe Wave Color, although these devices are still primarily designed for note-taking and sketching quick drawings for notes.
Also see: Best Note taking apps for iPad
Broaden your horizons a bit more and you’ll discover that not all tablets need to be, well, ‘tablets’.
Consider 2-in-1 laptop/tablet hybrids or graphics tablets, which provide an excellent alternative to traditional tablets like the iPad.
They might not exactly fit the ‘tablet’ bill, but they can still deliver an outstanding drawing experience.
At A Glance – Top iPad Alternatives for Drawing
Let’s take a quick glance at the devices that are the most premium alternatives to drawing on the iPad
1. Microsoft Surface Pro 9: Windows Powerhouse for Artists
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The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 deserves a top spot on the list of iPad alternatives for drawing due to its impressive performance and slick design. T
Also see: 8 Best Surface Pro Alternatives (With Active Pens)
he Surface Pro 9 runs on Windows, providing artists with a desktop-like experience, allowing them to tap into the full potential of professional software such as Adobe Creative Cloud. This feature sets it apart from other tablet offerings and makes it a unique alternative to the iPad for drawing enthusiasts.
Side note: The Surface Pro 9 tablet is compatible with the Surface Pen 2 stylus, offering 4,096 pressure sensitivity levels and advanced haptic feedback for an incredibly precise drawing experience.
One advantage of the Surface Pro 9 is its versatility in terms of how it can be used. When paired with the Type Cover keyboard, it effectively transforms into a laptop, providing creatives with even more flexibility and power in their workflow.
Also… the vibrant 13-inch PixelSense display is ideal for artists in need of accurate color representation and a high level of clarity. Another selling point for many artists is that the Surface Pro 9 offers several configurations in terms of processing power and storage space, allowing users to choose the best-suited option for their creative needs.
In terms of connectivity, the Surface Pro 9 is well-equipped with a USB Type-C port, a USB Type-A port, Surface Connect, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
This variety of ports enables seamless connection to a range of external peripherals and accessories, further enhancing its appeal to artists seeking an iPad alternative for drawing and designing.
2. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+: A Vibrant Canvas for Creatives
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The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ shines as a powerful and exciting alternative to the iPad, delivering a premium drawing experience for artists on the go. The Tab S8+ boasts a vibrant 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, allowing artists to draw smoothly and witness their creations in stunning detail.
The included Samsung S Pen considerably elevates the drawing experience, offering 4,096 pressure sensitivity levels, minimal latency, and a comfortable grip for extended drawing sessions.
The Galaxy Tab S8+ runs on Android, providing access to a wealth of drawing and design apps through the Google Play Store. This enables artists to work with familiar apps on a powerful device that rivals the iPad in terms of performance.
Related: 10 Largest Android Tablets that are 11 inches or bigger
Keep in mind that the Tab S8+ supports DeX mode, which transforms the tablet into a fully functioning desktop-like experience when connected to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse – further increasing its appeal to professional artists.
One of the key selling points of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is its sleek design, making it an appealing device for creatives who value both form and function.
Additionally, the long-lasting battery promises hours of uninterrupted drawing time, ensuring artists can work on their projects without constantly worrying about recharging. In summary, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is an excellent iPad alternative for artists who prioritize stunning visuals, impressive performance, and the freedom to run Android apps.
Also see: Best Note-Taking apps for Samsung Galaxy and Pixel Devices (Android tablets)
3. Lenovo Yoga 9i: The Ultimate 2-in-1 Drawing Experience
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The Lenovo Yoga 9i presents a unique iPad alternative for artists seeking a combination of a laptop and drawing tablet alternative to iPad. As a 2-in-1 convertible, the Yoga 9i can easily switch between laptop and tablet mode, offering versatility and convenience for creatives.
The device’s 14-inch IPS touchscreen display with a 3840 x 2160 resolution ensures precise color representation and crisp visuals for artists during their drawing sessions.
One key feature of the Lenovo Yoga 9i is its compatibility with the Lenovo Active Pen 2 stylus, providing an engaging and natural drawing experience. The Active Pen 2 provides 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing artists to create precise strokes and detailed artwork.
Furthermore, with the Yoga 9i running Windows, artists gain full access to desktop-class drawing and design software, enabling them to work in their preferred creative programs without compromise.
The Lenovo Yoga 9i also stands out for its impressive battery life, lasting up to 18 hours on a single charge. This ensures that artists can work on their projects without interruption and avoid having to recharge frequently during extended drawing sessions. Overall, the Yoga 9i is an excellent iPad alternative for those in search of a Windows-powered 2-in-1, offering a delightful drawing experience combined with the benefits of a fully-featured laptop.
Best alternatives to iPad for drawing (for every budget)
Let’s dive right into the best iPad alternatives for drawing!
1. Surface Go 3
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As an appealing iPad alternative for drawing enthusiasts, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 balances performance, portability, and affordability. Available in both Intel Pentium and Intel Core i3 configurations, this 10.5-inch tablet delivers excellent performance for creative projects and everyday tasks. The high-resolution PixelSense display, boasting 1,920 x 1,280 pixels, provides an enjoyable drawing experience with vibrant colors and sharp lines.
Also see the 9 Best Surface Pen & Slim Pen Alternatives (Surface Pro Pens)
Although the Surface Pen is not included, it can be purchased separately and comes with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support.
This allows for a natural drawing feel that is similar to the Apple pencil + iPad combo, with the ability to create intricate details and various stroke widths.
As an added bonus, the Surface Go 3 is compatible with Microsoft’s Type Cover, creating a laptop-like experience for users who prefer that setup. In conclusion, the Surface Go 3 is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly drawing tablet that can also serve as a versatile multi-purpose device.
2. XP-Pen Artist 12: Affordable Powerhouse
The XP-Pen Artist 12 is a fantastic option for those who want an affordable drawing tablet without sacrificing performance when selecting an iPad alternative. This 11.6-inch tablet, compatible with both Windows and macOS, offers a sleek and portable lightweight design, making it perfect for artists on the go. The screen resolution of 1920 x 1080 delivers vibrant colors and crisp lines to make your digital artwork stand out.
One advantage of the XP-Pen Artist 12 is its compatibility with popular software programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, CorelDRAW, and Clip Studio Paint. The included P06 battery-free pen provides 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring precise and natural drawing strokes.
As a side note, the Artist 12 also comes with customizable shortcut buttons and a touch bar, which makes it easier to adjust tools and settings while drawing. For its low price point, the XP-Pen Artist 12 offers impressive performance, rivaling some of the more expensive tablet options on the market.
3. Lenovo Yoga 9i
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If you’re looking for a multi-purpose device instead of a dedicated drawing tablet, the Lenovo Yoga 9i may be an ideal choice. This convertible laptop offers a stunning touch display that can be transformed into a tablet for all your creative needs. The 4K 14-inch touchscreen, with Dolby Vision support, provides users with an immersive drawing experience complete with vibrant colors and sharp detail.
The Yoga 9i comes equipped with a versatile “garaged” pen that fits snugly into the device for quick and easy access.
With its 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, the pen allows for precise and natural line work, making it perfect for digital artwork and note-taking. Keep in mind that the device’s powerful Intel Core processors and dedicated graphics card provide a smooth and lag-free experience while using demanding drawing software.
Making it an all-in-one solution for those who want a combination of a powerful laptop and an exceptional drawing workstation.
4. Lenovo Yoga Tab 3: Best cheap alternative as an iPad alternative for drawing
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Aspiring digital artists searching for a high-quality drawing tablet without breaking the bank should consider the Lenovo Yoga Tab 3. With their signature hinge design, Lenovo enables users to easily switch between various modes, including ‘Hold’ for an on-the-go drawing experience, ‘Tilt’ for a convenient drawing angle, and ‘Stand’ for hands-free media consumption.
Side note: the Yoga Tab 3 comes with an 8-inch HD display and built-in AnyPen technology, allowing users to utilize any conductive object, such as an ordinary pen or pencil, as a makeshift stylus.
One advantage of this affordable tablet is its impressive battery life, allowing for up to 18 hours of usage on a single charge, ensuring minimal interruptions during creative sessions.
Despite being budget-friendly, the Yoga Tab 3 has a quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage, making it ideal for running various drawing apps compatible with Android devices with relative ease. While the Yoga Tab 3 may not cater to all the needs of professional digital artists, it is a solid entry point for those beginning their creative journey.
5. LG G Pad F2: Budget-friendly Option
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The LG G Pad F2 offers a competitively priced alternative for digital artists looking for an iPad alternative without sacrificing quality performance. The 8-inch display, powered by Android 7.1.1 Nougat, supports a wide variety of drawing apps available on the Google Play Store. Side note: its octa-core processor and 2GB RAM provide respectable performance for budding artists to work effortlessly on their creations.
This affordable tablet has an ample storage capacity of 16GB built-in, expandable up to 2TB via a microSD card slot, allowing for a vast library of drawings and projects.
The included stylus, though not as advanced as more expensive alternatives, provides a reliable drawing experience with accuracy and precision. The battery life for the LG G Pad F2 is also commendable, lasting more than a full day of casual usage.
6. Fire HD 10 Tablet: Amazon’s Multimedia Device
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If content consumption and portability are essential to you, then the Fire HD 10 Tablet is a viable option. Amazon’s 10.1-inch tablet offers great value for users seeking a device for both drawing and media consumption. Its compatibility with drawing apps available on the Amazon Appstore makes it suitable for digital artists looking to get started on their creative endeavors.
See the 7 Best Stylus for Amazon Fire HD 8 & 10
The Fire HD 10 Tablet is also the first in Amazon’s lineup to support the AmazonBasics stylus (sold separately), providing a smooth and responsive drawing experience.
Equipped with a quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM, and up to 64GB of storage, the Fire HD 10 Tablet has the right balance of performance and practicality for budding artists on a budget, while also offering an enjoyable multimedia experience.
See how the Amazon Fire HD compares to the Samsung Tablet models
7. Lenovo Tab 4: Stellar Performance on a Budget
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The Lenovo Tab 4 offers incredible value for a drawing tablet, delivering high-quality performance at a budget-friendly price point. Its 10.1-inch display provides users with ample screen real estate, enabling artists to create detailed illustrations with ease. Keep in mind that this tablet is compatible with third-party styluses, such as Wacom’s Bamboo Sketch or Adonit’s Jot Touch.
With a quad-core Snapdragon processor, 2GB of RAM, and up to 32GB of storage (expandable via a microSD slot), the Tab 4 runs Android Nougat seamlessly, ensuring a fluid drawing experience paired with a stylus of your choice.
Moreover, the battery life of the Lenovo Tab 4 is commendable, lasting up to 20 hours on a single charge. As a result, this tablet presents an affordable option for users who value performance, compatibility, and functionality without spending a fortune.
Related: Lenovo Active Pen 2 Not Working? How to fix it
Graphic Tablets: Unconventional iPad Alternatives for Creators
Let’s dive right into the top graphic tablets and pen tablets with a screen that work as iPad alternatives. These are all considered drawing tablets.
Wacom Intuos
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The Wacom Intuos series is a dependable and popular choice among digital artists. Offering a smooth drawing experience with an accurate and responsive pen, Wacom Intuos tablets come in various sizes and configurations. One advantage of these devices is their customizable ExpressKeys, which can be assigned to frequently used shortcuts, enhancing the creative workflow.
Also see: What is a Wacom Tablet and how do they work?
The Wacom Intuos Pro is worth considering as it offers additional functionality, such as Bluetooth connectivity, improved pen accuracy, and a larger drawing area. Side note: Although Wacom Intuos tablets require connection to a computer, their integration with popular digital art software makes them a reliable and efficient solution for creators.
Related: 7 Best Wacom Tablets for Photo Editing & Photographers
XP-Pen Artist 15.6
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The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 is another compelling alternative for those seeking a dedicated drawing tablet. With a sleek design, full HD display, and an affordable price, this tablet offers a good balance between cost and functionality. Its responsive styli, with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, provide artists with the precision and control needed for intricate work.
One of the top advantages of the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 is its compatibility with multiple operating systems and creative software. It features customizable shortcut keys, enabling users to tailor their workflow and improve efficiency. This tablet is an ideal choice for beginners and intermediate artists who require reliable performance on a budget.
Huion KAMVAS
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The Huion KAMVAS series presents another invaluable option for artists seeking a dedicated drawing tablet. With full laminated screens, precise styli, and customizable shortcuts, these tablets excel at offering a user-friendly experience. The KAMVAS Pro series, in particular, boasts an upgraded battery-free stylus and a higher color gamut compared to its predecessors, making them suitable for professional work.
See the best standalone drawing tablets that don’t need a computer.
Huion KAMVAS tablets come in various sizes and configurations, catering to different preferences and budgets. Providing excellent performance and a wide range of compatible software, these tablets have become a popular choice for digital artists. However, keep in mind that they do require a computer for operation, making them less portable than iPads and other stand-alone tablets.
Wacom One
The Wacom One is an outstanding option as an iPad alternative for drawing. Featuring a 13.3-inch screen with Full HD (1920×1080) resolution and battery-free stylus, this affordable drawing tablet provides a satisfying drawing experience. As it is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Android systems, artists will appreciate its flexibility with various operating platforms.
One advantage of the Wacom One is its support for most major drawing and design applications, such as Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Corel Painter, and Autodesk Sketchbook, making it a practical choice for a wide range of users. Side note: the stylus with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity allows for highly accurate drawing, while the paper-like texture of the screen helps artists create natural and smooth strokes.
Also see: Sketchbook vs Photoshop: Which Software is Better?
Despite its many benefits, the Wacom One does have some limitations. The screen size may be too small for some users, and the tablet lacks built-in express keys for quick access to shortcuts. However, the overall affordability and performance of the Wacom One make it a solid option for artists looking for a quality drawing tablet without the expense of an iPad.
Xencelabs Medium
The Xencelabs Medium Pen Tablet is another excellent iPad alternative for drawing enthusiasts. Boasting a sleek design and compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Android devices, this tablet offers a comfortable and precise drawing experience with its two battery-free, ergonomically designed pens and Quick Keys remote for added functionality.
The Xencelabs tablet has an impressive 8,192 pressure sensitivity levels, allowing for precise control and detailed artwork. Its customizable Quick Key remote gives artists direct access to frequently used shortcuts and functions, making the drawing experience more efficient. Additionally, the tablet’s support for leading drawing applications, such as Adobe Creative Suite, ensures compatibility with an array of software options.
While the Xencelabs Medium Pen Tablet may not have the same display quality as the iPad Pro or other high-end tablets, its attractive combination of performance and affordability makes it an appealing choice for artists seeking a capable and reasonably priced alternative.
Parblo 10.1” Coast10: Creativity Bundle
The Parblo 10.1” Coast10 offers a competitive package for artists looking for versatility and reliability. With its high-definition 1280×800 IPS display, this 10.1-inch drawing tablet provides users with a vivid and colorful drawing experience. The tablet’s laminated screen reduces parallax issues, making drawing smoother and more precise. Compatible with both macOS and Windows, it also supports popular creative software like ZBrush and Photoshop.
With a battery-free stylus that features 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity, you can create smooth and accurate lines for professional-grade artwork.
The Parblo Coast10 provides an adjustable and customizable stand, which makes it comfortable for artists to find their optimal drawing angle. It’s worth noting that the tablet can be used with a wide range of drawing accessories, adding even more creative possibilities for artists. In summary, the Parblo Coast10 is an excellent option for those who want a comprehensive drawing solution without breaking the bank.
Graphic tablets are specialized devices designed to cater to the needs of artists, providing unique drawing experiences and tailored features. While they may not have the wide range of functionality offered by iPads, they present interesting alternatives for those focused solely on drawing.
Also see 7 Ways to Use Your Phone as a Drawing Tablet (Android & iPhone)
E-ink Devices: A Unique alternative device type to the iPad for drawing and note-taking
E-ink devices offer a unique alternative to iPads for drawing and note-taking. One advantage of E-ink devices is their paper-like display, which reduces eye strain, making them suitable for extended drawing and writing sessions.
Side note: They also consume far less battery than traditional tablets like the iPad, enabling extended use without recharging.
Also see: Best iPads for Note-taking
The Remarkable 2 is one example of an E-ink device tailored towards artists and writers which works to satisfy those who may not want to use a tablet like the iPad. With its palm rejection technology and responsive pen detection, users can enjoy an authentic handwriting and drawing experience.
It supports various file formats and cloud syncing, allowing seamless collaboration with other devices. Onyx Boox is another popular E-ink brand that offers products like the Boox Note Air, which combines a large writing surface with extensive drawing tools and Android app support.
Keep in mind that E-ink devices have some limitations, such as a narrower color range compared to LCD screens, and they might not be as versatile in terms of app support.
2-in-1 Laptop/Tablet Hybrids: Versatile Options for Drawing
2-in-1 laptop/tablet hybrids offer the advantage of combining the power and functionality of a laptop with the portability and touchscreen capabilities of a tablet. These devices, such as the Microsoft Surface Pro and Lenovo Yoga series, provide artists with versatile options for drawing, with access to desktop software alongside touchscreen drawing capabilities.
One of the benefits of 2-in-1 devices is the opportunity to utilize full software versions, unlike the more limited mobile app counterparts for standalone tablets. This flexibility allows artists to access professional features found in desktop applications, improving their overall workflow.
Side note: many 2-in-1 devices offer compatibility with high-performance styluses, further enhancing the drawing experience.
Keep in mind that while these hybrids often come at a higher price point compared to standalone tablets, their multitasking capabilities and access to the full range of creative software justify their cost for many artists who require both portability and functionality in their devices.
Top Stylus Options: From Manufacturer-Specific to Third-Party Choices
In the world of iPad alternatives for drawing, a wide array of styluses is available, including options from both manufacturers and third-party providers.
The Adonit Note Plus, for instance, is designed for iOS and iPadOS devices, offering 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity combined with palm-rejection technology and USB-C charging. The Logitech Crayon, on the other hand, provides a more budget-friendly option that works with the majority of Apple’s iPad lineup, including the iPad Pro.
For Android and Windows devices, options like the Lenovo Active Pen 2 or the Microsoft Surface Slim Pen offer stunning performance with 4,096 pressure sensitivity levels, customizable buttons, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Also see: 7 Best Stylus Pens for Touch Screen Laptops
When choosing a stylus, make sure to consider factors such as compatibility, pressure sensitivity, and the availability of additional features like customizable buttons or tilt sensitivity in order to find the best option for your needs.
Key Features to Look for when buying an iPad alternative for drawing
When selecting an iPad alternative for drawing, it’s important to prioritize essential features that cater to your artistic needs. First, consider the tablet’s screen size and resolution, as these factors directly impact your drawing experience. A large, high-resolution display is more conducive to detailed and immersive artwork.
Another critical aspect to consider is the tablet’s pressure sensitivity levels, which affect the responsiveness and accuracy of the stylus in relation to your strokes. Higher pressure levels generally provide a more natural drawing experience.
Lastly, take into account the tablet’s compatibility with essential art software, as this will determine the functionality and creative capabilities you have access to. In essence, when looking for the perfect iPad alternative, focus on the device’s display, stylus capabilities, and software compatibility to ensure that it meets your artistic requirements.
Don’t Overlook App Requirements and Compatibility
When exploring iPad alternatives for drawing, it is essential to consider the app compatibility and requirements of your desired device. It’s crucial to find a tablet that supports the specific applications or software you’ll use frequently, as not all drawing applications are created equal, and some may not be available on all platforms.
For example, while the popular Procreate app is exclusively available for iOS, many other drawing apps such as Autodesk SketchBook, Medibang Paint, and Adobe Sketch work across various platforms.
Another critical factor to consider is the app developers’ commitment to continuous updates and improvements, as this directly affects your user experience. App features, bug fixes, and overall performance vary from one platform to another, so research the development history and reviews of the apps you’re interested in using. Make sure the software is updated regularly and that the developers address user issues and concerns.
Side note: Besides software compatibility, hardware compatibility should be addressed as well. Keep in mind that some tablets may not be compatible with certain styluses or accessories that are essential for a fluid drawing experience. So, always double-check for compatibility before purchasing any additional equipment or supplies.
Alternative to iPad + Apple Pencil combo
Yes, the charm of the Apple Pencil’s unique gestures is undeniable, but don’t overlook the robust range of stylus pens that step up to the plate to play ball in this digital field.
You’ve got offerings straight from tablet manufacturers themselves and third-party contenders like the Logitech Crayon and Adonit Note +. These gadgets may surprise you with their flair!
Also see: Apple Pencil Compatibility: Which Apple Pencil works with your iPad?
Now, who said the iPad was the only game in town for digital drawing? Dive in, explore, and let your creativity soar with these amazing alternatives!
To see other options and how they compare to the Apple Pencil, see the Zagg Pro vs Apple Pencil vs Adonit Note+ vs Adonit Pixel
Can I use Procreate on an iPad Alternative?
Procreate, a popular drawing application, is exclusively available for iOS devices, such as iPads and iPhones.
While there aren’t any direct alternatives that can run the Procreate app, many other drawing tablets offer their own native applications or support various art apps that deliver similar functionality as Procreate.
See the Best Procreate Alternatives for Android
Android-based tablets, for example, often provide compatibility with a wide range of drawing applications that cater to various skill levels and requirements.
You may want to see: How to get Procreate on Mac
Best Apps to Use Instead of Procreate
If you’re using an iPad alternative for drawing, there are several excellent apps that can fill in the gap left by Procreate:
- Autodesk SketchBook: Available for both Android and iOS, this powerful drawing app features a sleek interface, customizable brushes, and support for professional-grade tools. It’s widely considered to be an impressive Procreate alternative.
- Adobe Photoshop Sketch: Compatible with Android and iOS, this drawing app offers a variety of brushes, layers, blending modes, and effects. If you’re an Adobe Creative Cloud user, you’ll enjoy seamless integration with the rest of the Adobe suite.
- ArtRage: Accessible to both iOS and Android users, ArtRage is designed to simulate real-world painting tools and allows artists to create realistic-looking art. Offering a wide range of tools like oil brushes, palette knives, and watercolors, it’s ideal for those seeking a more traditional art experience.
- Infinite Painter: Exclusive to Android devices, Infinite Painter boasts advanced layer manipulation, high-resolution canvases, and a highly customizable brush system. This app provides a smooth drawing experience and is perfect for artists looking for a Procreate alternative on Android.
Also see: How to Get Procreate on Windows (+ Top Alternatives)
Best Drawing Apps to Use on an iPad Alternative
While choosing the right drawing app for an iPad alternative, consider your specific needs and requirements. Here are a few popular drawing apps that cater to a wide range of creative processes:
- MediBang Paint: Featuring over 100 customizable brushes and a cloud-saving option, MediBang Paint is ideal for comic book artists working on an Android or Windows-based device.
- ibis Paint X: Popular among Android users for its abundant features, this drawing app offers a wide range of brushes, markers, and airbrushes. Its layer functionality and user-friendly interface make it a solid choice for beginners and experts alike.
- Krita: If you’re using a drawing tablet that connects to your computer, Krita is a highly recommended free and open-source painting program. Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, Krita is designed for illustrators, concept artists, and comic book creators.
Also see: Krita vs Medibang: Which software is better for artists?
Conclusion: Unleashing Your Artistic Potential with iPad Alternatives
While iPads are undoubtedly popular choices for digital artists, exploring iPad alternatives for drawing can reveal equally capable devices that cater to your specific needs without sacrificing much on quality. The key to success lies in understanding your personal preferences and weighing the pros and cons of each device, especially when selecting a tablet with a stylus that isn’t an Apple iPad.
Related: 7 Best Stylus for iPad Air (Drawing, Writing, Notes)
Some of the most notable iPad alternatives worth considering are the Microsoft Surface Pro series, Samsung Galaxy Tab S series, and various models from Huion and Wacom. Gain a thorough understanding of each tablet’s unique advantages and limitations related to app support, display quality, pressure sensitivity, and accessory compatibility. A properly informed decision ensures that your chosen device complements your creative workflow and enhances your digital art experience.
In summary, if you’re a digital artist looking for an alternative to iPads, don’t be afraid to explore the diverse range of tablets available. It’s crucial to compare different devices in terms of app compatibility, user experience, and performance before making a final decision. By doing so, you can find the perfect tool to unleash your artistic potential – without breaking the bank.