Understanding Your Needs as an Artist

Before diving into specific iPad models, let’s define what factors matter most for drawing:

• Pressure Sensitivity: A good iPad for drawing needs to detect subtle changes in pressure as you sketch, allowing you to vary line weight realistically.
• Display Quality: Crispness, color accuracy, and low glare ensure your artwork looks its best and helps with accurate line placement.
• Apple Pencil Compatibility: The Apple Pencil is essential for precision and a natural drawing feel. Check which generation (1st or 2nd) your chosen iPad supports.
• App Support: Ensure it can run powerful drawing apps like Procreate, Adobe Fresco, Clip Studio Paint, and others.
• Size Matters: Larger screens provide more canvas space, but smaller iPads offer portability. Consider your working style.

best cheap ipad for drawing

The Contenders: Budget-Friendly iPads

Let’s analyze the top candidates for the title of “Best Cheap iPad for Drawing”:

• iPad (Standard Model):

• • The Entry Point: Apple’s most affordable iPad often boasts impressive overall value for its price.
  • Pros: 10.2-inch Retina display, Apple Pencil (1st generation) support, powerful A-series chip.
  • Cons: Older design with thicker bezels, non-laminated display (small gap between the glass and the actual screen).

• iPad Air (Older Generations):

• • Mid-Range Powerhouse: Look for refurbished or used models (e.g., iPad Air 3rd or 4th generation).
  • Pros: Larger displays (10.5 inches or 10.9 inches), laminated displays, Apple Pencil (1st or 2nd gen) support, more powerful processors.
  • Cons: Finding a unit in good condition can be trickier, might be a slightly higher price point than the base iPad.

• iPad mini:.

• • The Compact Artist: Great if you value portability above all else.
  • Pros: 8.3-inch Liquid Retina Display, Apple Pencil (2nd generation) support, amazingly portable.
  • Cons: The smallest screen size for drawing, generally a pricier option compared to the others.

Feature Face-Off

Here’s a quick comparison table of key drawing features:

The Verdict: Which is Best?

There’s no single answer, as the “best” depends on your priorities and budget:

• All-Around Value: The standard iPad strikes a fantastic balance of price and drawing capability. It’s your safest bet if this is your first drawing iPad.
• Secondhand Seekers: If you can find a well-maintained older iPad Air, the enhanced display and processor provide a step up in the drawing experience.
• Portability Above All: The iPad mini excels for on-the-go sketching or if you prefer a very compact device.

Tips for Maximizing Your Budget iPad

• Refurbished Wonders: Consider refurbished iPads directly from Apple or reputable sellers, offering discounts with full warranties.
• Storage Strategy: Lower storage tiers (64GB) can be sufficient if you utilize cloud storage (iCloud, Dropbox) for some of your artwork.
• Case Combos: A case with a built-in stand provides various drawing angles, elevating comfort and precision.
• Paper-Like Screen Protectors: These matte protectors add texture, mimicking the feel of drawing on paper for some artists.

Important Reminders

• The Apple Pencil Matters: Factor in the cost of an Apple Pencil (1st or 2nd gen depending on iPad model) if you don’t own one already.
• App Costs: Pro-level drawing apps often have subscriptions or one-time purchases. Include those in your budgeting.
• Sales Happen: Monitor prices around holidays or back-to-school seasons, as iPads occasionally go on sale.