Best Tablet For Drawing With Apple Pencil

Drawing with an Apple Pencil offers a truly intuitive and expressive experience, transforming your tablet into a versatile digital canvas. Whether you’re a seasoned professional artist or just starting your creative journey, finding the perfect device is key. The right tablet can significantly enhance your workflow.

This guide explores the best tablet for drawing with Apple Pencil, presenting a curated selection of top options available today. We understand that artists have diverse needs, budgets, and preferences. That’s why we’ve gathered a variety of choices.

From incredibly powerful machines designed for demanding creative tasks to more accessible models perfect for everyday sketching, there’s an iPad here for everyone. Each option provides a fantastic platform for your artistic endeavors. You will find something that fits your style.

We’ll highlight what makes each tablet stand out, who it’s best suited for, and its general price point. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision. Get ready to discover the ideal companion for your Apple Pencil and unlock your full creative potential.

Here are some of the best tablets for drawing with Apple Pencil:

1. iPad (9th Generation) – The Accessible Artist’s Friend

The iPad 9th Generation stands out as an excellent entry-level option for anyone looking for the best tablet for drawing with Apple Pencil without a premium price tag. It offers a solid foundation for digital art. This model supports the 1st Generation Apple Pencil.

Its 10.2-inch (25.9 cm) Retina display provides vibrant colors and ample space for sketching, painting, and note-taking. The A13 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance for popular drawing apps like Procreate and Adobe Fresco. It handles many creative tasks with ease.

This iPad is perfect for students, hobbyists, or those new to digital art who want to experiment with the Apple Pencil. It offers exceptional value, making it a budget-friendly choice that doesn’t compromise on core functionality. This is a great starting point.

The iPad (9th Generation) is a great choice for getting started. It provides all the essentials for a satisfying drawing experience. Its reliability and affordability make it a top contender for new artists.

2. iPad (10th Generation) – Modern Design for Everyday Creativity

Stepping up in design, the iPad 10th Generation brings a refreshed look with flat edges and a larger 10.9-inch (27.7 cm) Liquid Retina display. This makes it a more immersive surface for your artistic projects. It’s a stylish and capable device.

It is powered by the A14 Bionic chip, which delivers faster performance compared to its predecessor. This ensures a more fluid experience when working on detailed illustrations or complex layers in your favorite art applications. It handles creative apps well.

This model is ideal for casual artists, students, or anyone who appreciates a modern aesthetic and improved performance for daily tasks alongside their drawing. It also supports the 1st Generation Apple Pencil, requiring a USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter for charging and pairing.

Its improved screen and faster chip make it a mid-range contender for those seeking a balance of features and cost. The iPad (10th Generation) is a strong option for a versatile drawing tablet.

3. iPad Air (4th Generation) – A Balanced Powerhouse for Artists

The iPad Air (4th Generation) remains a highly sought-after tablet for drawing, even after newer models have arrived. It offers a fantastic blend of power, portability, and premium features at a mid-range price point. It’s an excellent value proposition.

Featuring a 10.9-inch (27.7 cm) Liquid Retina display and the A14 Bionic chip, this iPad Air provides crisp visuals and robust performance. It capably handles demanding drawing applications and multitasking. Many artists find it ideal.

Crucially, it supports the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically and charges wirelessly. This convenience greatly enhances the drawing workflow. It feels more natural and integrated.

This iPad Air is perfect for serious hobbyists and aspiring professionals who desire the advanced features of the Apple Pencil 2 without the higher cost of a Pro model. It’s a top choice for a refined drawing experience.

4. iPad Air (5th Generation) – M1 Chip Power for Creative Professionals

The iPad Air (5th Generation) takes artistic performance to the next level by incorporating Apple’s powerful M1 chip. This is the same chip found in some MacBook models and iPad Pros. It unlocks incredible speed.

Its 10.9-inch (27.7 cm) Liquid Retina display, combined with the M1 chip, means you can run the most graphics-intensive drawing apps with absolute fluidity. Work on massive canvases and intricate designs without lag. It’s a true workhorse.

This tablet is an excellent mid-to-premium option for professionals and advanced artists who need serious processing power for complex projects. It also fully supports the Apple Pencil 2 for a seamless creative flow.

If you’re looking for an iPad that bridges the gap between the standard models and the Pro lineup, offering near-Pro performance for drawing, the iPad Air (5th Generation) is an outstanding best tablet for drawing with Apple Pencil. It offers exceptional value.

5. iPad Mini (6th Generation) – The Ultimate Portable Sketchbook

For artists who prioritize portability above all else, the iPad Mini (6th Generation) is an unrivaled choice. Its compact 8.3-inch (21.1 cm) Liquid Retina display fits comfortably in one hand, making it ideal for sketching on the go. It’s truly pocket-sized.

Powered by the A15 Bionic chip, this tiny powerhouse delivers impressive performance, easily handling demanding drawing applications. Don’t let its size fool you; it’s capable of serious artistic work. It’s surprisingly robust.

It supports the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil, which magnetically attaches to its side. This makes it incredibly convenient for quick ideas, plein air painting, or capturing inspiration whenever and wherever it strikes. It’s always ready.

The iPad Mini (6th Generation) is perfect for urban sketchers, travelers, or anyone who wants a highly portable, yet powerful, digital art tool. It’s a premium option for ultimate flexibility.

6. iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd Generation) (2020) – Pro Features on a Budget

While not the newest, the iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd Generation) from 2020 remains a formidable tool for artists, especially if you can find it at a good price. It offers many “Pro” features that enhance the drawing experience. It’s a smart purchase.

Its 11-inch (27.9 cm) Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology delivers incredibly smooth scrolling and a highly responsive drawing surface. The A12Z Bionic chip still provides plenty of power for most creative apps. It’s still very capable.

This model fully supports the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil, offering precision and low latency that artists crave. The magnetic attachment and wireless charging are a significant convenience. It streamlines your workflow.

This iPad Pro is ideal for aspiring professionals or those seeking a premium drawing experience without investing in the absolute latest model. It’s a mid-to-premium option that offers excellent value for its performance.

7. iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd Generation) (2021) – M1 Power in a Compact Pro Package

The iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd Generation) introduced the groundbreaking M1 chip to the smaller Pro form factor, elevating its performance significantly. This makes it an incredibly powerful and versatile tablet for drawing. It’s a serious creative tool.

Its 11-inch (27.9 cm) Liquid Retina display with ProMotion, True Tone, and P3 wide color support ensures stunning visual accuracy for your artwork. The M1 chip handles complex 3D models and countless layers with ease. It’s incredibly fluid.

Supporting the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil, this model provides an exceptional drawing experience with virtually no lag. The responsiveness of the display and pencil combination is truly remarkable. It feels natural.

This iPad Pro is a premium choice for professional artists, illustrators, and animators who need top-tier performance in a more portable Pro size. It offers a powerful blend of features for demanding creative work.

8. iPad Pro 11-inch (4th Generation) (2022) – The Latest 11-inch Pro Performance

For those seeking the absolute latest and greatest in a compact Pro package, the iPad Pro 11-inch (4th Generation) is the top contender. It features the incredibly powerful M2 chip, pushing performance boundaries even further. It’s a cutting-edge device.

The 11-inch (27.9 cm) Liquid Retina display retains all the ProMotion, True Tone, and P3 wide color accuracy, providing an exquisite visual canvas for your art. The M2 chip ensures unparalleled speed for any creative task. It’s incredibly fast.

This model introduces Apple Pencil Hover, allowing you to preview your mark before it touches the screen, adding a new layer of precision and control. This feature enhances the drawing experience significantly. It’s a subtle but impactful improvement.

As a premium option, this iPad Pro is perfect for professionals who demand the very best in performance, display quality, and the most advanced Apple Pencil features. It truly is the best tablet for drawing with Apple Pencil in its size category.

9. iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Generation) (2020) – Large Canvas, Great Value

Artists who prefer a vast digital canvas will appreciate the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th Generation) from 2020. This model, when found at a reduced price, offers an expansive drawing surface with serious processing power. It’s a compelling option.

Its large 12.9-inch (32.8 cm) Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology provides an immersive experience. The A12Z Bionic chip, while older, still delivers excellent performance for most professional art applications. It remains highly capable.

This iPad Pro supports the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil, making it a fantastic choice for detailed illustrations, digital painting, and graphic design. The sheer screen real estate makes a huge difference for complex projects. You have room to breathe.

This is a mid-to-premium option for artists who want a large display and Pro features without the very latest price tag. It’s a great value for a big, beautiful drawing surface.

10. iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th Generation) (2021) – The Stunning Liquid Retina XDR Display

The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th Generation) introduced the revolutionary Liquid Retina XDR display, making it a truly breathtaking device for artists. This display technology brings incredible contrast and brightness to your artwork. It’s a visual feast.

Powered by the M1 chip, this tablet offers blistering performance, capable of handling the most demanding creative software. Combined with the XDR display, it provides an unparalleled visual and performance experience. It’s incredibly powerful.

It fully supports the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil, and the enhanced display makes every stroke feel incredibly precise and vibrant. Colors pop, and darks are truly deep, enhancing the fidelity of your digital art. It’s a joy to use.

This premium iPad Pro is ideal for professional artists, photographers, and video editors who need the absolute best display for color-critical work and a powerful engine for complex projects. It is a top-tier best tablet for drawing with Apple Pencil.

11. iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation) (2022) – The Ultimate Digital Canvas

For artists who demand the absolute pinnacle of tablet technology, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation) is simply the best tablet for drawing with Apple Pencil. It combines the massive Liquid Retina XDR display with the M2 chip. This creates an unmatched creative powerhouse.

The M2 chip provides unparalleled speed and efficiency, allowing for seamless multitasking and handling the most intensive graphics applications. Work with dozens of layers or render complex 3D scenes effortlessly. It’s incredibly responsive.

Its 12.9-inch (32.8 cm) Liquid Retina XDR display offers stunning visual accuracy, brightness, and contrast, essential for professional color grading and detailed artwork. The screen makes your art truly shine.

With full support for the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil and the new Apple Pencil Hover feature, this premium iPad Pro delivers the most precise and intuitive drawing experience possible. It’s the ultimate tool for serious creative work.

12. Refurbished iPad Air (Various Generations) – Smart Value for Apple Pencil 2

Exploring refurbished iPad Air models can be a brilliant strategy for artists seeking the benefits of the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil without the brand-new price tag. Many reputable sellers on Amazon offer certified refurbished devices. These are often in excellent condition.

Depending on availability, you might find refurbished iPad Air 3rd, 4th, or even 5th Generation models. The 4th and 5th Generation models are particularly appealing as they support the Apple Pencil 2, which offers magnetic charging and superior feel. This is a significant advantage.

These mid-range options provide a powerful chip (A12 Bionic, A14 Bionic, or M1), a beautiful Liquid Retina display, and a modern design. They handle a wide range of drawing applications with ease, offering a smooth artistic workflow. It’s a smart investment.

A refurbished iPad Air is perfect for budget-conscious artists or students who want a premium drawing experience. It offers a great balance of features, performance, and cost-effectiveness. Always check seller ratings and warranty information.

13. Refurbished iPad Pro 11-inch (Various Generations) – Pro Power for Less

Similar to the iPad Air, opting for a refurbished iPad Pro 11-inch can provide incredible value for artists. These models offer ProMotion displays, powerful chips, and full Apple Pencil 2 support at a significantly reduced premium price. They are fantastic deals.

You might find refurbished 1st, 2nd, or 3rd Generation 11-inch iPad Pros. Even older Pro models, like the 1st Generation with its A12X Bionic chip, still deliver exceptional performance for most drawing tasks. They are built to last.

The ProMotion display, with its 120Hz refresh rate, makes drawing feel incredibly fluid and responsive, a key feature for professional artists. The larger storage options often found on Pro models are also beneficial for large projects. It offers ample space.

This is a mid-to-premium choice for artists who need the advanced features of a Pro model but are working within a tighter budget. A refurbished iPad Pro can be the best tablet for drawing with Apple Pencil if you’re smart about your purchase.

14. Refurbished iPad Pro 12.9-inch (Various Generations) – Expansive Canvas on a Budget

For artists who dream of a large, immersive digital canvas but find new Pro prices daunting, a refurbished iPad Pro 12.9-inch is an excellent alternative. These older models still offer a massive display and powerful performance. They are a great value.

Look for refurbished 3rd, 4th, or 5th Generation 12.9-inch iPad Pros. Even the 3rd Generation with its A12X Bionic chip provides a huge ProMotion display and robust performance for professional art applications. It’s a powerful tool.

The expansive 12.9-inch (32.8 cm) Liquid Retina display, especially on models with ProMotion, transforms your drawing experience. It gives you ample room for detail and an unobstructed view of your entire artwork. You’ll love the space.

This premium option is ideal for professional artists, illustrators, and animators who require maximum screen real estate for intricate work. A refurbished 12.9-inch iPad Pro offers a compelling blend of size, power, and affordability.

Last Words

Choosing the best tablet for drawing with Apple Pencil ultimately comes down to your personal needs, artistic style, and budget. From the accessible iPad (9th Generation) to the ultimate iPad Pro 12.9-inch, each option offers a unique set of strengths tailored for different artists.

Whether you prioritize portability with the iPad Mini, seek the balanced power of the iPad Air, or demand the absolute top-tier performance of an iPad Pro, there’s a perfect match for you. Consider the Apple Pencil generation supported by each device.

Think about how you’ll use your tablet, what apps you’ll run, and how much screen real estate you prefer. Any of these options will provide a fantastic platform for your creativity. You really can’t go wrong with these choices.

We encourage you to explore these models further on Amazon, checking current prices and availability. Reading user reviews can also provide additional insights. Find the tablet that feels right for you and let your creativity flow.