Unveil the best iPads compatible with Procreate, perfect for digital artists and creatives.
So you’re an artist looking to level up your digital art game with Procreate? You’ve come to the right place! Procreate is a powerful and intuitive app that’s become a favorite among digital artists, but getting the most out of it requires the right iPad. There’s a vast array of iPads available, each with unique features and specs, making it tough to know which one is perfect for your needs.
This guide is designed to help you find the best iPad for Procreate, no matter your budget or artistic goals. We’ll dive into the top 20 iPads, exploring their strengths and weaknesses, and helping you choose the one that fits your workflow and creative vision.
We’ll cover everything from the latest iPad Pro models with their powerful M2 chip and gorgeous Liquid Retina XDR displays to the more budget-friendly iPads perfect for beginners and those looking for a portable option. We’ll also consider factors like display size, resolution, storage, and Apple Pencil compatibility, so you can make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a seasoned digital artist or just starting your journey, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to find the perfect iPad that empowers your creativity and unlocks the full potential of Procreate.
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| iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation) | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation) | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation) | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| iPad Air (5th generation) | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation) | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation) | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| iPad (9th generation) | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| iPad Air (4th generation) | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| iPad mini (6th generation) | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)
The latest and greatest iPad Pro, this model boasts the most powerful M2 chip, a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, and a ProMotion refresh rate for super-smooth scrolling and drawing.
Specifications:
- Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display (2732 x 2048 resolution, 264 ppi)
- Processor: Apple M2 chip
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
- RAM: 8GB or 16GB
- Cameras: 12MP Wide camera, 10MP Ultra-Wide camera, LiDAR Scanner
- Front camera: 12MP Ultra-Wide camera with Center Stage
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E, Thunderbolt/USB 4, Bluetooth 5.3
- Battery life: Up to 10 hours
Reasons to buy:
- Exceptional performance: The M2 chip provides unparalleled power for demanding creative tasks.
- Stunning display: The Liquid Retina XDR display delivers incredible detail, color accuracy, and contrast.
- ProMotion: The 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and drawing incredibly smooth.
- Versatile connectivity: Thunderbolt/USB 4 supports high-speed data transfer and external displays.
- Powerful cameras: The cameras are excellent for capturing photos, videos, and even scanning artwork.
Reasons to avoid:
- High price: The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation) is one of the most expensive iPads on the market.
- Large size: The 12.9-inch screen might be too big for some users, especially for portability.
- Limited pencil support: Only the second generation Apple Pencil is compatible with this iPad.
What you need to know:
Buy it if
- You need the absolute best performance for Procreate and other demanding creative apps.
- You value a large, high-quality display for detail and precision in your artwork.
- You appreciate the smooth scrolling and responsiveness of ProMotion.
- You want to connect to external displays and peripherals.
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget.
- You prefer a smaller, more portable iPad.
- You don't need the latest and greatest features.
Bottom Line:
The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation) is the ultimate iPad for serious artists who demand the best possible performance, display, and creative tools. It is powerful, versatile, and built to handle even the most demanding creative tasks. However, its high price and large size might be prohibitive for some users. If you are looking for a smaller and more affordable option, consider the iPad Pro 11-inch or the iPad Air.
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation)
The 11-inch iPad Pro (1st generation) is a powerful tablet with a beautiful display and a fast processor. It is a great option for artists who need a tablet that can handle demanding tasks like drawing and painting.
Specifications :
- Display: 11-inch Liquid Retina display (2388 x 1668 resolution)
- Processor: A12X Bionic chip
- Storage: 64GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
- Camera: 12MP wide-angle camera, 7MP TrueDepth front camera
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Reasons to buy :
- Powerful A12X Bionic chip for fast performance
- Beautiful 11-inch Liquid Retina display
- Apple Pencil support for drawing and sketching
- 12MP wide-angle camera for taking high-quality photos and videos
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive compared to other iPad models
- No USB-C port (only Lightning connector)
- Can be a bit heavy for extended use
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a powerful tablet for demanding tasks like drawing and painting
- You want a tablet with a beautiful display
- You are willing to pay a premium for the best iPad experience
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget
- You don't need the most powerful iPad available
- You prefer a smaller or lighter tablet
Bottom Line:
The 11-inch iPad Pro (1st generation) is a great choice for artists who need a powerful and versatile tablet. It has a beautiful display, a fast processor, and excellent Apple Pencil support. However, it is expensive and a bit heavy. If you are on a tight budget or don't need the most powerful iPad available, you may want to consider a different model. The iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation) is a great choice for artists who are serious about their craft and want the best possible experience. It's a powerful tablet with a beautiful display, a fast processor, and excellent Apple Pencil support. However, it is expensive and a bit heavy. If you are on a tight budget or don't need the most powerful iPad available, you may want to consider a different model.
iPad (7th generation)
The 7th generation iPad is a budget-friendly tablet that is perfect for basic tasks like browsing the web, watching videos, and playing games. It is also a good choice for artists who are just starting out and don't need a lot of power.
Learn more about 20 Best iPads for Using Procreate for Artists
Specifications :
- Display: 10.2-inch Retina display (2160 x 1620 resolution)
- Processor: A10 Fusion chip
- Storage: 32GB, 128GB
- Camera: 8MP wide-angle camera, 1.2MP front camera
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Retina display for sharp and clear visuals
- A10 Fusion chip for fast performance
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as powerful as the iPad Air or iPad Pro
- No support for Apple Pencil (1st generation)
- Limited storage options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget
- You need a tablet for basic tasks like browsing the web, watching videos, and playing games
- You are a beginner artist and don't need a lot of power
Don't buy it if:
- You need a powerful tablet for demanding tasks like drawing and painting
- You want a tablet with Apple Pencil support
- You need a lot of storage space
Bottom Line:
The iPad (7th generation) is a great budget-friendly option for artists who are just starting out or who need a tablet for basic tasks. It's not as powerful as the iPad Air or iPad Pro, but it's still a great tablet for the price.
iPad mini (5th generation)
The iPad mini (5th generation) is a compact and portable tablet that is perfect for artists who want a tablet that they can take with them on the go. It has a beautiful display and a fast processor, and it is also compatible with the Apple Pencil (1st generation).
Specifications :
- Display: 7.9-inch Liquid Retina display (2048 x 1536 resolution)
- Processor: A12 Bionic chip
- Storage: 64GB, 256GB
- Camera: 12MP wide-angle camera, 7MP front camera
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Reasons to buy :
- Compact and portable design
- Beautiful 7.9-inch Liquid Retina display
- A12 Bionic chip for fast performance
- Apple Pencil (1st generation) support
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- Smaller display than the iPad Air or iPad Pro
- Not as powerful as the iPad Pro
- No support for the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a compact and portable tablet
- You need a tablet with a beautiful display
- You want a tablet that is compatible with the Apple Pencil (1st generation)
Don't buy it if:
- You need a tablet with a large display
- You want a tablet that is compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- You need the most powerful iPad available
Bottom Line:
The iPad mini (5th generation) is a great choice for artists who want a compact and portable tablet. It has a beautiful display, a fast processor, and Apple Pencil support. However, it is not as powerful as the iPad Pro and does not support the Apple Pencil (2nd generation). If you need a tablet with a large display or a lot of power, you may want to consider a different model.
iPad (6th generation)
The 6th generation iPad is a solid mid-range tablet that is a good option for artists who need a tablet that can handle basic drawing and sketching tasks. It is also a great choice for students and professionals who need a tablet for everyday use.
Specifications :
- Display: 10.2-inch Retina display (2160 x 1620 resolution)
- Processor: A10 Fusion chip
- Storage: 32GB, 128GB
- Camera: 8MP wide-angle camera, 1.2MP front camera
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Retina display for sharp and clear visuals
- A10 Fusion chip for fast performance
- Long battery life
- Apple Pencil (1st generation) support
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as powerful as the iPad Air or iPad Pro
- No support for the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- Limited storage options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget
- You need a tablet for basic drawing and sketching tasks
- You want a tablet with Apple Pencil (1st generation) support
Don't buy it if:
- You need a powerful tablet for demanding tasks like drawing and painting
- You want a tablet that is compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- You need a lot of storage space
Bottom Line:
The iPad (6th generation) is a great mid-range tablet that is a good option for artists who need a tablet that can handle basic drawing and sketching tasks. It's not as powerful as the iPad Air or iPad Pro, but it's still a great tablet for the price. If you are on a tight budget or don't need the most powerful iPad available, the 6th generation iPad is a great choice.
iPad Air (3rd generation)
The iPad Air (3rd generation) is a powerful and versatile tablet that is a great choice for artists who need a tablet that can handle demanding tasks like drawing and painting. It has a beautiful display, a fast processor, and Apple Pencil (1st generation) support.
Learn more about The 25 Best iPads for Kids in 2024
Specifications :
- Display: 10.5-inch Retina display (2224 x 1668 resolution)
- Processor: A12 Bionic chip
- Storage: 64GB, 256GB
- Camera: 12MP wide-angle camera, 7MP front camera
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Reasons to buy :
- Powerful A12 Bionic chip for fast performance
- Beautiful 10.5-inch Retina display
- Apple Pencil (1st generation) support
- 12MP wide-angle camera for taking high-quality photos and videos
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- More expensive than the iPad (7th generation) or iPad (6th generation)
- No support for the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- No USB-C port (only Lightning connector)
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a powerful tablet for demanding tasks like drawing and painting
- You want a tablet with a beautiful display
- You want a tablet that is compatible with the Apple Pencil (1st generation)
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget
- You need a tablet that is compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- You need a tablet with a USB-C port
Bottom Line:
The iPad Air (3rd generation) is a great choice for artists who need a powerful and versatile tablet. It has a beautiful display, a fast processor, and Apple Pencil support. However, it is more expensive than the iPad (7th generation) or iPad (6th generation) and does not support the Apple Pencil (2nd generation). If you are on a tight budget or need a tablet that is compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), you may want to consider a different model.
iPad mini (4th generation)
The iPad mini (4th generation) is a compact and portable tablet that is a good option for artists who want a tablet that they can take with them on the go. It has a beautiful display and a fast processor, and it is also compatible with the Apple Pencil (1st generation).
Specifications :
- Display: 7.9-inch Retina display (2048 x 1536 resolution)
- Processor: A12 Bionic chip
- Storage: 64GB, 256GB
- Camera: 8MP wide-angle camera, 7MP front camera
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Reasons to buy :
- Compact and portable design
- Beautiful 7.9-inch Retina display
- A12 Bionic chip for fast performance
- Apple Pencil (1st generation) support
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- Smaller display than the iPad Air or iPad Pro
- Not as powerful as the iPad Pro
- No support for the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a compact and portable tablet
- You need a tablet with a beautiful display
- You want a tablet that is compatible with the Apple Pencil (1st generation)
Don't buy it if:
- You need a tablet with a large display
- You want a tablet that is compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- You need the most powerful iPad available
Bottom Line:
The iPad mini (4th generation) is a great choice for artists who want a compact and portable tablet. It has a beautiful display, a fast processor, and Apple Pencil support. However, it is not as powerful as the iPad Pro and does not support the Apple Pencil (2nd generation). If you need a tablet with a large display or a lot of power, you may want to consider a different model.
iPad (5th generation)
The 5th generation iPad is a solid mid-range tablet that is a good option for artists who need a tablet that can handle basic drawing and sketching tasks. It is also a great choice for students and professionals who need a tablet for everyday use.
Specifications :
- Display: 9.7-inch Retina display (2048 x 1536 resolution)
- Processor: A9 chip
- Storage: 32GB, 128GB
- Camera: 8MP wide-angle camera, 1.2MP front camera
- Battery Life: Up to 9 hours
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Retina display for sharp and clear visuals
- A9 chip for fast performance
- Long battery life
- Apple Pencil (1st generation) support
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as powerful as the iPad Air or iPad Pro
- No support for the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- Limited storage options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget
- You need a tablet for basic drawing and sketching tasks
- You want a tablet with Apple Pencil (1st generation) support
Don't buy it if:
- You need a powerful tablet for demanding tasks like drawing and painting
- You want a tablet that is compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- You need a lot of storage space
Bottom Line:
The iPad (5th generation) is a great mid-range tablet that is a good option for artists who need a tablet that can handle basic drawing and sketching tasks. It's not as powerful as the iPad Air or iPad Pro, but it's still a great tablet for the price. If you are on a tight budget or don't need the most powerful iPad available, the 5th generation iPad is a great choice.
iPad (4th generation)
You can find more information on 22 Best iPads for Using Procreate for Artists
The 4th generation iPad is an older model, but it is still a solid option for artists who need a tablet for basic drawing and sketching tasks. It has a Retina display and a fast processor, and it is also compatible with the Apple Pencil (1st generation).
Specifications :
- Display: 9.7-inch Retina display (2048 x 1536 resolution)
- Processor: A8X chip
- Storage: 16GB, 64GB, 128GB
- Camera: 8MP wide-angle camera, 1.2MP front camera
- Battery Life: Up to 9 hours
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Retina display for sharp and clear visuals
- A8X chip for fast performance
- Long battery life
- Apple Pencil (1st generation) support
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as powerful as the iPad Air or iPad Pro
- No support for the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- Limited storage options
- Older model that may not be compatible with the latest apps and features
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are on a very tight budget
- You need a tablet for basic drawing and sketching tasks
- You want a tablet with Apple Pencil (1st generation) support
Don't buy it if:
- You need a powerful tablet for demanding tasks like drawing and painting
- You want a tablet that is compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
- You need a lot of storage space
- You need a tablet that is compatible with the latest apps and features
Bottom Line:
The iPad (4th generation) is a good option for artists who need a tablet for basic drawing and sketching tasks and are on a very tight budget. It's not as powerful as the iPad Air or iPad Pro, but it's still a great tablet for the price. However, it's an older model that may not be compatible with the latest apps and features. If you need a tablet that is compatible with the latest apps and features or want a more powerful tablet, you may want to consider a different model.
iPad (3rd generation)
You can find more information on The 15 Best iPad for Drawing in 2024
The 3rd generation iPad is an older model that is no longer supported by Apple. It is still a good option for artists who need a tablet for basic drawing and sketching tasks and are on a very tight budget. However, it is not compatible with the Apple Pencil.
Check this blog on The 25 Best iPads for Students in 2024
Specifications :
- Display: 9.7-inch Retina display (2048 x 1536 resolution)
- Processor: A5X chip
- Storage: 16GB, 32GB, 64GB
- Camera: 5MP wide-angle camera, 1.2MP front camera
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price
- Retina display for sharp and clear visuals
- A5X chip for fast performance
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as powerful as the iPad Air or iPad Pro
- No support for the Apple Pencil
- No support for the latest apps and features
- Older model that may not be compatible with the latest apps and features
- No support from Apple
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are on a very tight budget
- You need a tablet for basic drawing and sketching tasks
- You do not need Apple Pencil support
Don't buy it if:
- You need a powerful tablet for demanding tasks like drawing and painting
- You need Apple Pencil support
- You need a tablet that is compatible with the latest apps and features
- You need a tablet that is supported by Apple
Bottom Line:
The iPad (3rd generation) is a good option for artists who need a tablet for basic drawing and sketching tasks and are on a very tight budget. It's not as powerful as the iPad Air or iPad Pro, and it's not compatible with the Apple Pencil. However, it's an older model that may not be compatible with the latest apps and features. If you need a tablet that is compatible with the latest apps and features or want a more powerful tablet, you may want to consider a different model.
iPad 2
The iPad 2 is a very old model that is no longer supported by Apple. It is not a good option for artists who need a tablet for drawing and sketching tasks.
Specifications :
- Display: 9.7-inch Retina display (1024 x 768 resolution)
- Processor: A5 chip
- Storage: 16GB, 32GB, 64GB
- Camera: 0.7MP wide-angle camera, 0.3MP front camera
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Reasons to buy :
- Very affordable price
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as powerful as the iPad Air or iPad Pro
- No support for the Apple Pencil
- No support for the latest apps and features
- Older model that may not be compatible with the latest apps and features
- No support from Apple
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- None
Don't buy it if:
- You need a tablet for drawing and sketching tasks
- You need a tablet that is compatible with the latest apps and features
- You need a tablet that is supported by Apple
Bottom Line:
The iPad 2 is a very old model that is no longer supported by Apple. It is not a good option for artists who need a tablet for drawing and sketching tasks. There are much better and more modern options available.
So there you have it, the 20 best iPads for using Procreate! Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, there's an iPad on this list that's perfect for you. We've taken into account everything from screen size and resolution to processing power and battery life, so you can be confident that you're getting the best possible iPad for your creative needs.
Ultimately, the best iPad for Procreate is the one that fits your individual needs and budget. If you're looking for the best possible performance and features, then the iPad Pro is the way to go. But if you're on a tighter budget, then the iPad Air or iPad mini are still excellent options. No matter which iPad you choose, we're confident that you'll be able to create stunning artwork with Procreate.
The world of digital art is constantly evolving, and new iPads are released regularly. So, be sure to keep an eye out for the latest models and updates. And don't forget to explore the vast library of Procreate brushes and tutorials available online. With a little bit of practice and experimentation, you can create beautiful and unique artwork on your iPad.
We encourage you to experiment with different iPads and features to discover what works best for you. The creative possibilities with Procreate are endless, and the right iPad can be your key to unlocking your artistic potential. Happy creating!