If you want to see the best iPads for artists in one place, then you’ll love this post.
I personally reviewed 9 iPads — perfect for artists like you embarking on a creative journey.
I also shared my insights on each option as if I’m giving advice to a close friend seeking the ideal purchase.
Let’s dive in.
What Is the Best iPad for Artists?
If you have a larger budget, the 12.9” iPad Pro 2022 offers the most powerful performance, advanced display technology (mini-LED), and top-of-the-line features, making it the ultimate choice for serious artists.
However, if you're working with a smaller budget, the iPad Air 2022 (5th Gen) provides an excellent balance of performance, display quality, and affordability without compromising essentials.
Both models support Apple Pencil 2 and have access to an extensive range of drawing apps, ensuring you'll have the tools you need to unleash your creativity, regardless of your budget.
- 12.9” iPad Pro 2022 (6th Gen)
- 12.9” iPad Pro 2021 (5th Gen)
- 11” iPad Pro 2022 (4th Gen)
- 11” iPad Pro 2021 (3rd Gen)
- iPad Air 2022 (5th Gen)
- iPad Air 2020 (4th Gen)
- iPad 2022 (10th Gen)
- iPad Mini 2021 (6th Gen)
- iPad 2021 (9th Gen)
1. 12.9” iPad Pro 2022 (6th Gen)
Cutting-edge display in a top-tier device
Designed for the most demanding creative tasks and for those who want the best of the best.
Technical Specifications
Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 2
Screen Size: 12.9”
Display: Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion
Resolution: 2732 x 2048 pixels - 264 ppi
Color Gamut: DCI-P3
Weight: 682g (WiFi) / 685g (WiFi + Cellular)
Dimensions: 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4mm
CPU: Apple M2 chip
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
RAM: 8GB on 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 16GB on 1TB, 2TB
Rear Cameras: 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide
Front Camera: 12MP Ultra Wide
The 12.9” iPad Pro 2022 is the most powerful iPad available you can get right now. So powerful that it might be overkill for most people.
Equipped with Apple's latest M2 chip, you won't need to worry about performance. Instead, you might find the limitations of the current iPadOS to be more of a concern.
This iPad boasts a stunning mini-LED display with ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate), ensuring buttery smooth visuals and vivid colors that beautifully enhance your artwork.
Sketching and designing become a breeze with the seamless integration of Apple Pencil 2. You can even charge the Apple Pencil 2 wirelessly by placing it near the side of the iPad.
I assume you won't rely on your iPad for photograph, so I'll skip the camera features – they'll never outshine your iPhone anyway.
One thing to note is that the smaller storage options (128GB, 256GB, and 512GB) come with 8GB RAM. To get 16GB RAM, you'll need to opt for the 1TB or 2TB variant.
In summary, I highly recommend this iPad Pro if budget isn't a concern. As a satisfied user of the 5th Gen model with the M1 chip, I can vouch for its impressive performance.
In fact, I've found myself using my iPad Pro far more often than my MacBook Pro, even though iPadOS has limitations and can't accomplish specific tasks compared to macOS.
The Good
- Powerful M2 Chip: Delivers top-notch performance for demanding tasks.
- Exceptional Display: Features a mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR with ProMotion for vivid visuals.
- Apple Pencil 2: Precise sketching, drawing, and designing.
- Storage Variety: Options from 128GB to 2TB to suit every need.
- Quality Cameras: 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide rear, and 12MP Ultra Wide front cameras.
The Bad
- High Price: Expensive, particularly with larger storage options and accessories.
- Size and Weight: 12.9” size may be less portable for some users.
- RAM Allocation: 16GB RAM only available with 1TB or 2TB storage options.
2. 12.9” iPad Pro 2021 (5th Gen)
High-end performance in the previous generation
Though a previous generation, its high-end performance is still relevant for creating masterpieces.
Technical Specifications
Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 2
Screen Size: 12.9”
Display: Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotio
Resolution: 2743 x 2048 pixels - 264 ppi
Color Gamut: DCI-P3
Weight: 682g (WiFi) / 685g (WiFi + Cellular)
Dimensions: 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4 mm
CPU: Apple M1 chip
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
Rear Cameras: 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide
Front Camera: 12MP Ultra Wide
The 12.9” iPad Pro 2021 is similar to the 2022 model but has a few key differences.
The most significant is that it's powered by the M1 chip, which still provides excellent performance, though less cutting-edge than the M2 chip in the 2022 version.
I'm using my 5th Gen with an M1 chip and am still extremely happy with its performance. This means you can still enjoy a smooth creative experience without the latest chip technology.
Other features, such as the stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, Apple Pencil 2 support, and storage options, remain the same as the 2022 model.
So, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option that offers most of the benefits of the iPad Pro 2022, the 2021 version could be a great choice.
The Good
- M1 Chip: Provides excellent performance, though not as advanced as the M2 in the 2022 model.
- Outstanding Display: Shares the same 12.9” Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion as the 2022 version.
- Apple Pencil 2 Support: Same seamless integration for sketching and drawing as the newer model.
- Storage Variety: Identical storage options as the 2022 model, from 128GB to 2TB.
- Quality Cameras: Comparable camera features to the iPad Pro 2022.
- Budget-Friendlier: Offers most benefits of the 2022 version at a lower price point.
The Bad
- Older Chip: M1 chip is still powerful but not as cutting-edge as the M2 in the 2022 model.
- Size and Weight: The 12.9” size, similar to the 2022 model, might be less portable for some users.
- RAM Allocation: Identical to the 2022 model, with 16GB RAM only available in 1TB or 2TB storage options.
3. 11” iPad Pro 2022 (4th Gen)
Compact form factor with impressive capabilities
Ideal for artists who need pro-level performance while maintaining portability and convenience.
Technical Specifications
Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 2
Screen Size: 11”
Display: Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
Resolution: 2388 x 1668 pixels - 264 ppi
Color Gamut: DCI-P3
Weight: 466g (WiFi) / 470g (WiFi + Cellular)
Dimensions: 247.6 x 178.5 x 5.9mm
CPU: Apple M2 chip
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
RAM: 8GB on 128GB, 256GB, 512GB & 16GB on 1TB, 2TB
Rear Cameras: 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide
Front Camera: 12MP Ultra Wide
The 11” iPad Pro 2022 is an excellent option for artists who prefer a more compact and portable device without compromising power.
Running on the same advanced M2 chip as the 12.9” model, it delivers a top-notch performance that caters to your creative needs.
The 11” Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology ensures vibrant colors and smooth visuals, making it perfect for bringing your artistic visions to life.
Like the 12.9” version, it's fully compatible with Apple Pencil 2, enabling seamless sketching and designing.
The camera features on this iPad Pro are on par with its larger counterpart, but it's worth noting that the 11” model doesn't have the mini-LED display found in the 12.9” version.
Storage options and RAM allocation are identical to the 12.9” model, providing flexibility to choose what suits you best.
In summary, the 11” iPad Pro 2022 is a fantastic choice if you want a powerful yet more portable alternative to the larger iPad Pro model.
The Good
- Compact and Portable: 11” size is more manageable for artists on the go.
- Powerful M2 Chip: Delivers the same top-notch performance as the 12.9” model.
- Vibrant Liquid Retina Display: Offers ProMotion technology for smooth visuals and vivid colors.
- Apple Pencil 2 Support: Enables seamless sketching and designing like the larger model.
- Quality Cameras: Comparable camera features to the 12.9” iPad Pro 2022.
- Storage Variety: Identical storage options as the 12.9” version, from 128GB to 2TB.
The Bad
- Smaller Display: 11” screen may be limiting for some artists compared to the 12.9” model.
- No Mini-LED Display: Lacks the mini-LED technology found in the 12.9” version.
- RAM Allocation: Same RAM options as the 12.9” model, with 16GB RAM only available in 1TB or 2TB storage options.
4. 11” iPad Pro 2021 (3rd Gen)
Pro-level features in a smaller package
The perfect balance between performance, portability, and affordability.
Technical Specifications
Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 2
Screen Size: 11”
Display: Liquid Retina display with ProMotion
Resolution: 2388 x 1668 pixels - 264 ppi
Color Gamut: DCI-P3
Weight: 466g (WiFi) / 470g (WiFi + Cellular)
Dimensions: 247.6 x 178.5 x 5.9mm
CPU: Apple M1 chip
Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
RAM: 8GB on 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 16GB on 1TB, 2TB
Rear Cameras: 12MP Wide, 10MP Ultra Wide
Front Camera: 12MP Ultra Wide
The 11” iPad Pro 2021 offers a budget-friendly alternative for artists seeking a compact, powerful device.
Though it uses the M1 chip rather than the 2022 model's M2, its performance remains impressive.
Featuring an 11” Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology, this model delivers vibrant colors and smooth visuals.
Apple Pencil 2 integration ensures a seamless creative experience — just like other Pro models.
In a nutshell, the iPad Pro 2021 provides a compelling choice for those who value portability and performance without needing the latest advancements.
The Good
- Budget-Friendly: More affordable than the 2022 model while offering great performance.
- Compact Size: 11” display is portable and convenient for artists on the go.
- M1 Chip: Delivers a powerful performance, though not as advanced as the M2 chip in the 2022 model.
- ProMotion Display: Features a Liquid Retina display with smooth visuals and vibrant colors.
- Apple Pencil 2 Support: Provides a seamless creative experience for sketching and designing.
- Storage Variety: Offers the same range of storage options as the 2022 model, from 128GB to 2TB.
The Bad
- Older Chip: Comes with the M1 chip, a step behind the M2 chip in the 2022 version.
- Smaller Screen: 11” display may be limiting for some artists compared to the 12.9” model.
- No Mini-LED Display: Lacks the mini-LED technology found in the 12.9” 2022 version.
- RAM Allocation: Same RAM options as the 2022 model, with 16GB RAM only available in 1TB or 2TB storage options.
5. iPad Air 2022 (5th Gen)
Striking balance between performance and price
An appealing mix of high-quality performance and a more affordable price point.
Technical Specifications
Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 2
Screen Size: 10.9”
Display: Liquid Retina display
Resolution: 2360 x 1640 pixels - 264 ppi
Color Gamut: DCI-P3
Weight: 461g (WiFi) / 462g (WiFi + Cellular)
Dimensions: 247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1mm
CPU: Apple M1 chip
Storage: 64GB / 256GB
RAM: 8GB
Rear Cameras: 12MP, dual pixel PDAF
Front Camera: 12MP
The iPad Air 2022 is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a powerful yet budget-friendly tablet.
Sporting a 10.9” Liquid Retina display, your artwork will pop with sharp visuals and spot-on colors.
Powered by the Apple M1 chip and with 8GB of RAM, you'll find the creative experience smooth and responsive.
Plus, Apple Pencil 2 support means sketching and designing will feel natural and seamless.
Keep in mind, though:
Storage options are limited to either 64GB or 256GB, which could be a concern if you have a massive digital art collection.
The cameras are decent for reference shots and video calls, but let's be honest — you'll probably use your phone for that anyway.
What's great is that the iPad Air 2022 is lightweight and portable, perfect for creating on the go.
The iPad Air 2022 strikes a sweet balance between performance, portability, and affordability for artists like you. So it's definitely worth considering.
The Good
- Affordability: A more budget-friendly option for artists compared to the iPad Pro line.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact, making it ideal for creating on the go.
- Apple Pencil 2 Support: Offers seamless sketching and designing capabilities.
- M1 Chip: Provides smooth and responsive performance for creative tasks.
- Liquid Retina Display: Showcases sharp visuals and accurate colors for your artwork.
The Bad
- Limited Storage Options: Only available in 64GB and 256GB, which might be restrictive if you have extensive digital libraries.
- Slightly Smaller Screen: 10.9” display is a bit smaller than the 11” and 12.9” iPad Pro models.
- No ProMotion Display: Lacks the ProMotion technology found in the iPad Pro models, which offers a smoother visual experience.
- Camera Quality: Decent for reference images and video calls, but not as advanced as the iPad Pro models or iPhone.
6. iPad Air 2020 (4th Gen)
Affordable choice with excellent capabilities
A strong contender for artists who want a feature-rich device without the high expense.
Technical Specifications
Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 2
Screen Size: 10.9”
Display: Liquid Retina display
Resolution: 2360 x 1640 pixels - 264 ppi
Color Gamut: DCI-P3
Weight: 458g (WiFi) / 460g (WiFi + Cellular)
Dimensions: 247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1mm
CPU: A14 Bionic chip
Storage: 64GB / 256GB
Rear Cameras: 12MP Wide
Front Camera: 7MP FaceTime
The iPad Air 2020 is still an excellent option if you're seeking a blend of performance and affordability without necessarily jumping to the latest iPad Air.
With its 10.9” Liquid Retina display, you'll enjoy vibrant colors and crisp visuals as you bring your art to life.
Under the hood, you'll find the A14 Bionic chip, which means you'll get solid performance without breaking the bank, though not as powerful as the M1 chip found in the 2022 model.
Paired with Apple Pencil 2 support, your sketching and designing experience will be smooth and satisfying.
Storage options include 64GB and 256GB, so choose wisely based on your digital art collection.
The iPad Air 2020 is lightweight and portable, perfect for taking your art on the go.
The iPad Air 2020 is a reliable and budget-conscious choice if you're looking for a capable tablet without the iPad Pro price tag or the latest upgrades from the 2022 model.
The Good
- Budget-Friendly: Offers excellent performance without the iPad Pro price tag or the latest iPad Air 2022 upgrades.
- Vibrant Display: The 10.9” Liquid Retina display provides sharp details and vivid colors for your artwork.
- Solid Performance: The A14 Bionic chip ensures smooth operation for most creative tasks.
- Apple Pencil 2 Support: Seamless integration for sketching and designing.
- Lightweight and Portable: Easy to carry around, perfect for creating art on the go.
The Bad
- Less Powerful: Lacks the M1 chip found in the iPad Air 2022.
- Limited Storage Options: Only available in 64GB and 256GB, so choose wisely.
- Camera Quality: Decent for quick snaps and video calls, but your phone likely has better camera capabilities.
7. iPad 2022 (10th Gen)
Exceptional value with dependable performance
Ideal for artists who need a dependable tablet without overspending.
Technical Specifications
Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 1
Screen Size: 10.9”
Display: Liquid Retina display
Resolution: 2360 x 1640 pixels - 264 ppi
Color Gamut: sRGB
Weight: 477g (WiFi) / 481g (WiFi + Cellular)
Dimensions: 248.6 x 179.5 x 7 mm
CPU: Apple A14 Bionic
Storage: 64GB / 256GB
Rear Camera: 12MP
Front Camera: 12MP
If the iPad Pro and iPad Air stretch your budget, the iPad 2022 is an affordable yet competent alternative.
It boasts a 10.9” Liquid Retina display and is well-suited for everyday creative tasks.
However, bear in mind that it features an sRGB color gamut, not the wider DCI-P3 found in higher-end models.
Equipped with the A14 Bionic chip, it provides a dependable performance.
Although it supports Apple Pencil 1 — which is still quite adequate for creative work — it misses out on the advanced features of Apple Pencil 2.
The storage options are a bit limited, so choose wisely between the 64GB and 256GB variants.
Overall, the iPad 2022 is a practical choice for artists seeking a capable device without a hefty price tag.
The Good
- Budget-Friendly: Offers excellent performance without the iPad Pro or iPad Air price tag.
- Vibrant Display: The Liquid Retina display provides sharp details and vivid colors for your artwork.
- Solid Performance: The A14 Bionic chip ensures smooth operation for most creative tasks.
- Apple Pencil 1 Support: Compatibility for sketching and designing.
- Lightweight and Portable: Easy to carry around, perfect for creating art on the go.
The Bad
- Limited Color Gamut: Features an sRGB color gamut instead of the wider DCI-P3 found in higher-end models.
- Limited Storage Options: Only available in 64GB and 256GB, so choose wisely.
- Apple Pencil 1, Not 2: Lacks the advanced features of Apple Pencil 2.
- Less Powerful: Lacks the M1 chip found in the iPad Air 2022 and iPad Pro models.
8. iPad Mini 2021 (6th Gen)
Pocket-sized creativity powerhouse
The ultimate travel companion for artists who want to create on the go.
Technical Specifications
Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 2
Screen Size: 8.3”
Display: Liquid Retina display
Resolution: 2266 x 1488 pixels - 326 ppi
Color Gamut: DCI-P3
Weight: 293g (WiFi) / 297g (WiFi + Cellular)
Dimensions: 195.4 x 134.8 x 6.3 mm
CPU: A15 Bionic
Storage: 64GB / 256GB
Rear Camera: 12MP Wide
Front Camera: 12MP Ultra Wide
Meet the iPad Mini 2021 — the perfect companion for artists who need a powerful, ultra-portable tablet.
This little powerhouse sports an 8.3” Liquid Retina display with a DCI-P3 color gamut, making your creations pop with stunning colors and sharp details.
Despite its small size, the iPad Mini 2021 is no slouch when it comes to performance.
It's packed with an A15 Bionic chip, ensuring a smooth experience for your creative tasks.
With the added bonus of Apple Pencil 2 support, you can easily sketch, design, and illustrate while on the go.
It offers storage options of 64GB and 256GB, catering to a range of needs.
Its 12MP Wide rear camera and 12MP Ultra Wide front camera make it suitable for snapping quick reference shots and handling video calls with clarity.
If you're after a portable yet powerful tablet for your artistic pursuits, the iPad Mini 2021 is definitely worth considering.
The Good
- Ultra-Portable: The compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for artists on the go.
- Impressive Display: The 8.3” Liquid Retina display with DCI-P3 color gamut delivers vibrant colors and sharp details.
- Powerful Performance: The A15 Bionic chip ensures a smooth experience for a wide range of creative tasks.
- Apple Pencil 2 Support: Offers seamless integration for sketching, designing, and illustrating.
- Storage Options: Comes in 64GB and 256GB variants to cater to different storage needs.
The Bad
- Smaller Screen: The 8.3” display might be too small for some users who prefer a larger workspace.
- Battery Life: The smaller size may result in shorter battery life compared to larger iPad models on this list.
- No Face ID: Lacks the Face ID feature found in higher-end iPad models for added security and convenience.
9. iPad 2021 (9th Gen)
Budget-conscious option with reliable performance
Perfect for budget-conscious artists who need reliable performance without a hefty price tag.
Technical Specifications
Stylus Support: Apple Pencil 1
Screen Size: 10.2”
Display: Retina display
Resolution: 2160 x 1620 pixels - 264 ppi
Color Gamut: sRGB
Weight: 487g (WiFi) / 498g (WiFi + Cellular)
Dimensions: 250.6 x 174.1 x 7.5mm
CPU: A13 Bionic chip
Storage: 64GB / 256GB
RAM: 8GB
Rear Cameras: 8MP Wide
Front Camera: 12MP Ultra Wide
If you're considering the iPad 2022 but are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the iPad 2021 might be the one for you.
While it comes with a slightly smaller 10.2” Retina display, it still delivers crisp visuals, making it suitable for everyday creative tasks.
And it features an sRGB color gamut, just like its successor.
Powered by the A13 Bionic chip, the iPad 2021 ensures smooth operation for most tasks, though it isn't as powerful as the newer iPad 2022 with its A14 Bionic chip.
It supports Apple Pencil 1, making it suitable for sketching and designing, but keep in mind that it lacks the advanced features of Apple Pencil 2.
The iPad 2021 is available in 64GB and 256GB storage options, similar to the iPad 2022.
However, it has a different rear camera setup with an 8MP Wide camera.
Overall, if you're after a capable device that won't break the bank, the iPad 2021 is worth considering.
The Good
- Budget-Friendly: A more affordable option than the iPad 2022 while still delivering reliable performance for most tasks.
- Decent Display: The 10.2” Retina display provides adequate detail and color for your artwork.
- A13 Bionic Chip: Ensures smooth operation for everyday creative tasks.
- Apple Pencil 1 Support: A good option for sketching and designing.
- Comparable Storage Options: Available in 64GB and 256GB, similar to the iPad 2022.
The Bad
- Slightly Smaller Display: The 10.2” screen size may be less ideal for some users compared to the 10.9” iPad 2022.
- Older Generation Chip: Lacks the performance boost of the A14 Bionic chip found in the iPad 2022.
- Limited Color Gamut: Features an sRGB color gamut, unlike the wider DCI-P3 found on higher-end models.
- Apple Pencil 1 Limitation: Lacks the advanced features and seamless integration of Apple Pencil 2.
- Inferior Camera Setup: Comes with an 8MP Wide rear camera, which is not as versatile as the 12MP camera on the iPad 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a screen protector?
I personally don't use one on my iPad Pro, as applying a Paperlike screen protector negates the benefits of the mini-LED display.
The iPad's screen is designed to deliver an optimal user experience without additional protection, so you can fully enjoy its high-quality visuals.
Can I use my iPad as a drawing tablet for my computer?
Yes, you can use your iPad as a drawing tablet for your computer with apps like Astropad, Duet Display, or EasyCanvas, which allow you to mirror and extend your computer screen onto the iPad and use it as a drawing tablet.
Is there a significant difference between the M1/M2 chip and the A-series chips in terms of performance for artists?
Apple silicon (M1/M2) offers a significant performance boost over A-series chips, especially for intensive tasks. For artists, this translates to smoother brush strokes, faster rendering, and better handling of complex projects.
How do iPadOS updates affect the drawing experience on iPads?
iPadOS updates typically improve overall performance, introduce new features, and provide better support for apps. This can enhance the drawing experience on iPads, making it more enjoyable and efficient.
What are some of the best drawing apps available for iPads?
Some of the best drawing apps for iPads include Procreate, Adobe Fresco, Affinity Designer, Clip Studio Paint, and Autodesk SketchBook. Each app offers a unique set of features catering to different artistic styles and workflows.
What are the differences between the Liquid Retina and Retina displays for artists?
The Liquid Retina display features rounded corners and improved color accuracy compared to the Retina display. Both provide excellent visuals for artists, but the Liquid Retina display offers a slightly better overall experience.
Can I use third-party styluses with my iPad, and how do they compare to the Apple Pencil?
There are third-party styluses available for iPads, such as the Logitech Crayon and Adonit styluses.
While they may offer some unique features or a lower price point, the Apple Pencil typically provides the best integration, pressure sensitivity, and overall drawing experience.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, choosing the right iPad for your artistic needs depends on your preferences and budget.
From the powerhouse iPad Pro models to the ultra-portable iPad Mini, there's an option for you, regardless of where you are in your creative journey.
Ultimately, the best iPad for you is the one that helps you unleash your creativity while fitting comfortably within your budget.
I hope you find this post helpful and in the comment section below, let me know which iPad you're currently using for your creative endeavor.