Being a graphic artist is not easy at all, since it requires extensive training and also equipment that is not cheap. Many people wonder if an iPad can illustrate or is something cumbersome. In this article we are going to try to clarify what the best iPad can be for anyone interested in illustration.
iPad or graphics tablet, the big question
Anyone who is in the world of illustration surely has in mind the purchase of a graphics tablet. These have an exclusive function focused on helping the artist to capture a digital drawing offering an experience very similar to when it is drawn on paper in a classic way. This is one of the great attractions of graphics tablets, but working on iPad can offer a fairly similar experience. Everything is getting used to and the experience of using an Apple Pencil on the screen of an iPad, although it is not the same as on the graphics tablet, is not negative at all.
One of the negative points that the iPad and the Apple Pencil can have, is that applying pressure simply releases much more ink. In the case of graphics tablets, it responds to more pressure levels and offers a much more pencil-like experience depending on the angle. But what the iPad clearly wins is that it is a totally portable device and that it performs many other functions besides drawing. This is something that cannot be achieved with a graphics tablet, since due to its size and also due to its dependence on other equipment it is difficult to transport. This makes it a great attraction for illustrators who must carry out their professional activity outside the home and always on the move .
In short, you always have to assess on a case-by-case basis which product may be best. And obviously try both, since both the iPad and the graphics tablet can make authentic works of art.
The most recommended iPad for illustrators
There are many iPads that we find in the market that would be suitable for illustrators. The difference between these may finally lie in the size of the screen and also in the Apple Pencil that can be of several generations.
iPad Pro
The iPad Pro has many advantages over other equipment such as compatibility with the second-generation Apple Pencil . This pen has the advantage of being able to configure a shortcut to access other tools such as an eraser with a single touch. This can be tremendously interesting to be more productive when doing illustration on the computer.
Regarding the screen size of the iPad, we can say that in general the 12.9 ″ screen is the most recommended. To work in a much more comfortable way it is better to have a fairly large screen with which to see what we are doing at all times. In addition, the second generation Apple Pencil will always be carried on top thanks to being magnetically attached to one of the sides.
It is possible that to save money it is interesting to go to a previous generation of the iPad Pro, since it continues to maintain a very similar power. In the case of the iPad Pro 2020, the LiDAR sensor is notably included as a great novelty, something that the truth will not end up contributing hardly anything to a person who is an illustrator. Obviously, it is always interesting to consider the most recent option, but if the budget is cut, you can opt for previous generations with very similar characteristics.
iPad Air
If you want to save a little money, the iPad Air is one of the most recommended devices. The problem is that you will not have the second generation Apple Pencil, but you will have to ‘suffer’ the negative points of the first generation Apple Pencil . Among these, the absence of a magnetic port to carry the Apple Pencil always attached to the iPad stands out, or simply a shortcut on the pencil to switch to other tools.
It has a 10.5 ″ screen that may be fair, but it is a team that will undoubtedly offer plenty of power to move illustration and drawing applications. In addition, it is an extremely portable and versatile equipment that will allow us to do many other tasks by being able to connect a keyboard through the Smart Connector.
And you, which iPad would you choose for the illustration field?
