‎LiquidText on the App Store

So what exactly are the differences between an iPad and a drawing tablet? While there are similarities, they both offer very different pros and cons. Well, obviously iPads are general-use tablets that tie into the Apple ecosystem, allowing you to check emails, do online shopping, access apps, and much more. This makes it a helpful device both with drawing and anything outside of your art projects. However, you must purchase the Apple Pencil separately, as it is not included in the purchase of an iPad.

Drawing tablets on the other hand, must be connected to a computer to function (unless you have a standalone computer tablet). Typically purchasing a drawing tablet nets you a pen in the purchase, so you don’t need to buy one separately. Depending on the settings on your computer, you can use a tablet like a mouse to access other programs and software on your computer.

Ipad and apple pencil

iPads have some of the best pressure sensitivity of any tablets on the market. Open one of the best drawing apps for iPad and combine that with the awesome Apple Pencil (sold separately), and you’ll be making awesome art in no time.

If you’re going to go the touchscreen tablet route for drawing apps, you need to go iPad. In my experience, Apple’s iPads have better pressure sensitivity than most Windows or Android tablets, though I should mention that it’s not anything near the pressure sensitivity levels offered by drawing tablets. But many people find iPad/Apple Pencil sensitivity to be more than enough for their drawing preferences.

There are plenty of drawing apps out there to use too. In fact, Adobe not only makes versions of their software specifically for iPad, such as Photoshop for iPad, Illustrator on iPad, and the free app Adobe Fresco but the company also tends to prioritize updates for iPad more so than any other touchscreen tablet out there (even the Surface Pro). If you have an Adobe subscription on your computer, you’ll be able to access your compatible iPad work from your computer version of Photoshop or Illustrator and vice versa.

Graphics tablets come with a stylus or pen with removable tips and have far more pressure sensitivity levels than iPads, allowing artists to have more brush stroke variation as determined by how hard they push the pen to the screen. These drawing tablets come in three forms:

• Pen pads — Simple drawing pads that connect to a computer and are typically less expensive than other options. They’re perfect for beginners or established artists looking for an inexpensive option. Nowadays they tend to be wireless with an internal battery.
• Pen displays — Feature a screen that you draw on but must be connected to a computer to supplement the necessary amount of power. They cost a bit more, but being able to draw directly on your art instead of staring at a computer monitor with your hand on a separate pen pad is really convenient.
• Pen computers — Standalone machines that feature HD displays and don’t need to be connected to other devices to function. This is often what you’ll see high-end professionals working on.

Since drawing tablets interact with computers, it gives you access to more intensive drawing software than an app can provide. Drawing tablets can also have massive displays making it easier to work on the finer details of your work. However, the trade-off here is that drawing tablets aren’t nearly as portable since they either need to be connected to a computer or can be too bulky for easy mobile use.

Wacom is the big name in the drawing tablet world and as such, products by this company tend to be the very best you can buy, but also the most expensive. That being said, there are plenty of other brands that don’t cost as much while still offering powerful features and conveniences. Since these devices connect to computers, they are compatible with far more programs since you’re not at the mercy of a simplified drawing app. Many graphics tablets also have customizable shortcut keys near the drawing area that you can program your most accessed commands to for easy use.

Who should buy this: People who need access to more intensive programs to make more controlled projects. If you’re someone who works professionally, you’ll likely want a full-blown drawing tablet. However, also having an iPad to work from when you’re away from your desk is a very useful and common practice.

Pros:

• Far more pressure sensitivity levels than an iPad
• Compatible with more software
• Pen displays can have huge HD screens
• Can cost a lot less than an iPad and Apple Pencil

Cons

• Aren’t nearly as portable
• Many programs aren’t as beginner-friendly as drawing apps

Which apple pencil do i need?

So, you’ve decided on buying an iPad for your artistic needs, eh? With that being the case, these are the ones I recommend most, but you can also check out Best iPads for artists for more suggestions.

If you’re looking for something to test the digital drawing waters without costing you a fortune, this is the drawing tablet to go with. It’s inexpensive while offering plenty of features and conveniences.

Best drawing tablets to buy

If you’re here, it must mean you’re leaning towards a drawing tablet. There are literally hundreds of options out there, but I have a few that I highly recommend:

If you’re just wanting to test the waters to see if this is even something you’ll like, check out the Huion H610 Pro V2. It’s a simple Pen pad that doesn’t cost very much but works beautifully. Many professional artists are content with this simple device alone.

Digital drawing time

Now that you’ve determined to either go with an iPad, a graphics tablet or both you’re ready to start making some awesome art. Both the iPad and graphics tablets have their pros and cons, it’s just a matter of determining what your own preferences are.

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