Updated 19 October 2026.
A good iPhone drawing app should suit the pictures you want to make and feel comfortable on a small screen. Start with one app, try a complete drawing and check its export options before paying for extra brushes or a subscription.
These five apps have iPhone versions. The suggestions below are based on their published features, rather than a claim that we tested every brush on every iPhone. Check your local App Store for current compatibility and purchase terms.
A quick comparison
| App | A useful starting point for | Payment model to check |
|---|---|---|
| Procreate Pocket | Painting and illustration on iPhone. | Paid app. |
| Sketchbook | A sketchbook-style drawing workspace. | Free download with optional paid features. |
| ibis Paint X | Illustration, comics and a broad tool collection. | Free download with ads and paid options. |
| Tayasui Sketches | Drawing with natural-media-style tools. | Free download with in-app purchases. |
| Concepts | Flexible sketches, diagrams and ideas on an expandable canvas. | Free basics with paid tools or plans. |
Procreate Pocket
Procreate Pocket is the iPhone app; do not confuse it with Procreate for iPad. It is worth considering if you want a painting-focused toolset and are comfortable buying the app before settling into it.
Look through its current feature list and device requirements first. A workflow shown in an iPad tutorial may use a different app, screen layout or accessory.
Sketchbook
Sketchbook offers drawing tools for mobile devices as well as desktop versions. Try it if you want to sketch, organize layers and gradually build a drawing without choosing a specialist comic workflow.
Check which mobile tools are included and which need an additional purchase. A desktop purchase should not be assumed to unlock every mobile feature.
ibis Paint X
The ibis Paint X listing describes an illustration and animation app with brushes, layers and additional creative tools. Its wide tool selection can suit someone who wants to explore several styles in one app.
Before paying, distinguish ad removal from memberships or other paid features. Downloading a free app does not mean every tool is free, and one purchase may not unlock all paid options.
Tayasui Sketches
Tayasui Sketches emphasizes drawing and painting tools with a natural-media look. It is a candidate for quick studies, notebook-style illustrations and experiments with watercolor-like brushes.
Try the tools included with the download and check the Pro purchase details before assuming an example shown in promotional images is available in the basic version.
Concepts
Concepts is a different starting point for ideas, plans and visual notes. Its expandable canvas and editable strokes can be useful when a sketch needs to keep growing or changing.
Check its current iOS feature and export options against your task. A rough floor-plan idea, a polished painting and a layered illustration do not all need the same tools.
Test these things before you commit
- Draw and erase a few lines at the zoom level you normally use.
- Try layers, undo and the selection tools.
- Export a finished image and check its size, transparency and quality.
- Find out how to back up an editable project, not just a flattened picture.
- Read the payment screen carefully, including renewal terms for subscriptions.
Do not buy an Apple Pencil expecting iPhone support. Check Apple’s compatibility list and the app’s support for any other stylus. Touch input and accessory support vary. If you later need desktop editing, our GIMP background-removal guide shows a different stage of an image workflow.
FAQs
Can I use Procreate for iPad on an iPhone?
Procreate Pocket is the separate iPhone app. Check that you are buying the version intended for your device.
Are all five apps completely free?
No. Their payment models differ, and free downloads may include paid tools, ads or subscription options.
Do I need a stylus to start?
No. You can try touch drawing first, then check supported accessories if you want a different input method.
Which app should a beginner choose?
Choose based on the task and controls you find comfortable. Make one small finished drawing before buying a larger tool collection.