In this comparison, we’ll explore the differences between the two popular iOS based Apple tablets and help you decide which iPad is right for your drawing, graphic design and creative tasks.

Also see: iPad Air vs Pro for drawing: Which is better? (Artist Review)

See the 5 Best iPads for Artists (Drawing, Digital Art, and more)

Read on to discover which device stands out for its performance, features, and overall drawing experience.

Key Takeaways – iPad Air vs iPad Pro for drawing

Key Differences between iPad Air and iPad Pro for Artists? The Display size is larger on Pro… and the battery life is longer on Pro. The Pro model also has Pro motion display (120hz) refresh rate, so it’s overall faster in terms of performance

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• Both iPad Air and iPad Pro come with the same powerful M1 chip, ensuring high-quality performance.
• The latest iPad Air supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, offering the same drawing experience as the iPad Pro.
• iPad Pro models have a larger storage capacity, up to 2TB, whereas the iPad Air is available with a maximum storage of 256GB.
• The iPad Pro has a better camera setup and more advanced display technology than the iPad Air, but if you’re only drawing, this is likely a less crucial feature for you.

Related: 7 Best Stylus for iPad Air (Drawing, Writing, Notes)

Understanding the Artistic Perspective

As an artist, selecting the ideal tablet for your creative endeavors requires thorough consideration of several factors that directly impact your work.

The device’s display quality, processing power, and compatibility of accessories are some of the most critical aspects… this is why many artists use a drawing tablet that connects to a laptop.

We’ve compared iPad vs Drawing Tablet for Artists as well.

When comparing the iPad Air and iPad Pro, it’s essential to evaluate the differences in specifications and performance.

One advantage of both devices is that they’re compatible with the Apple Pencil 2, providing an unparalleled drawing experience.

Side note: Choosing between the iPad Air and iPad Pro requires an understanding of the various features and design aspects that you specifically need (for example, if you need procreate or a 3d modeling app, you’re requirements may be different).

Gaining a better understanding of these features will assist in making a well-informed decision tailored to one’s artistic needs.

Key Differences between iPad Air and iPad Pro for Artists

Diving deeper into the specifications and features of the iPad Air and iPad Pro reveals several critical differences that could affect an artist’s decision. Although both devices are slim and lightweight, the iPad Air offers a more affordable option, while the iPad Pro boasts considerably more power and functionality.

The iPad Pro comes with a 120 Hz ProMotion display, making it a preferred choice among artists for its smoother drawing experience. However, the iPad Air offers a more budget-friendly alternative without significantly compromising quality.

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Keep in mind that the processor powering the device plays an essential role in providing a seamless drawing experience. The iPad Pro’s M1 chip gives it a performance boost, but the iPad Air’s A14 Bionic processor is no slouch either.

Assessing each device’s performance can help determine which tablet meets your expectations in terms of processing power, display quality, and pricing.

Comparing Display Quality and Performance

An artist’s best friend is a tablet with a high-quality display, offering crisp images and color accuracy. Comparing the iPad Air and iPad Pro, both devices boast impressive screens with minimal display differences.

Both tablets have a Retina display with a similar resolution and color gamut, ensuring excellent visual output. The key disparity lies in their screen refresh rates; the iPad Pro has a 120Hz ProMotion display, while the iPad Air features a standard 60Hz screen.

• One advantage for iPad Pro users lies in the device’s higher brightness, making it a more suitable option for outdoor usage.
• On the other hand, the iPad Air’s display has a slightly lower brightness level but still performs well both indoors and outdoors.

As an artist, understanding the contrast between the devices’ display quality can help in deciding which tablet better suits your needs.

ProMotion Display and its Impact on Drawing Experience for iPad Pro users

ProMotion technology is what sets the iPad Pro apart from the iPad Air and other tablets. With a refresh rate of 120 Hz, this feature doubles the standard refresh rate of 60 Hz seen in the iPad Air.

This higher refresh rate results in a smoother and more responsive on-screen experience, which directly impacts an artist’s drawing process.

ProMotion not only facilitates a faster response but also makes it feel more natural and akin to drawing on paper with an actual pencil.

Considering that not all artists require such immaculate responsiveness, the iPad Air’s standard display does an excellent job when it comes to drawing. For professionals who require the best possible drawing experience and can afford the price premium of the iPad Pro, the device’s ProMotion display is indeed a game changer.

Does iPad Air have Pro Motion display?

While the iPad Air is an impressive device, it lacks the ProMotion display that sets the iPad Pro apart. This means that the iPad Air is limited to the standard 60 Hz refresh rate instead of the 120 Hz offered by the ProMotion technology.

Although this does not entirely hamper the drawing experience on the iPad Air, it does make the drawing and writing experience feel somewhat less natural when compared to the iPad Pro.

Despite this, many artists will still find the iPad Air to be more than sufficient for their needs without shelling out the extra cash for the iPad Pro.

However, if you prioritize fluidity and natural strokes in your drawing experience, the iPad Pro’s ProMotion display is the way to go.

iPad Air vs Pro – Deep dive into the differences for drawing

A Look at Pixel Density and Display Sharpness

When it comes to drawing on a tablet, display sharpness can play a vital role in your overall experience. Both the iPad Air and iPad Pro have identical pixel densities of 264 pixels per inch (PPI), which makes your drawing look sharp and highly detailed.

Comparing the resolutions of both devices, the iPad Air sports a resolution of 2360×1640 pixels while the iPad Pro 12.9 flaunts a slightly increased resolution of 2732×2048 pixels (source). Despite the minor difference in resolutions, the drawing experience remains consistently outstanding across both devices.

One advantage of having a high pixel density is that your artwork appears crisp and precise with vibrant colors and smooth line transitions.

The retina display technology found in both tablets results in realistic, high-quality visuals that enhance your artistic experience. Ultimately, both the iPad Air and iPad Pro provide artists with top-notch display sharpness that caters to all their drawing needs.

Apple Pencil Performance on iPad Air and iPad Pro

The Apple Pencil, specifically its second-generation model, is a critical component of the drawing experience on both iPad Air and iPad Pro.

The second-generation Apple Pencil offers exceptional precision, impressive pressure sensitivity, and accurate tilt recognition, which significantly elevate the quality of your drawings.

Keep in mind, both iPad variants support the second-generation Apple Pencil, and the drawing experience is almost identical on both devices. See our post on Which Apple Pencil works with your iPad? (Compatibility Chart)

However, the iPad Pro has a 120Hz ProMotion display that offers smoother and more responsive input, which translates to a more natural and fluid drawing experience.

This slight improvement found in the iPad Pro may appeal to artists seeking the most realistic drawing experience possible on a tablet.

Exploring Performance – The Role of Apple M1 and M2 Chips

The performance of a tablet for drawing is significantly influenced by its processing power. The iPad Air features Apple’s M1 chip, which offers exceptional processing power that rivals many laptops. The iPad Pro, on the other hand, comes with the newer M2 chip – an upgrade that delivers 18-20% faster performance compared to the M1.

The power of these chips plays a crucial role when working on large-resolution project files with multiple layers, ensuring seamless operation even when using the most demanding brushes. While the iPad Pro’s M2 chip delivers slightly faster processing power, the iPad Air’s M1 chip is no slouch. In practice, both devices are highly capable of delivering outstanding performance for your drawing endeavors.

Choosing the Right Model – Storage Options and RAM

Selecting the ideal iPad model for drawing is often a matter of personal preference and requirements regarding storage and RAM capacity. The iPad Air offers two storage options – 64GB and 256GB – while the iPad Pro provides a wider range, starting from 128GB to a massive 2TB.

When it comes to RAM, both tablets come with 8GB, enabling seamless multitasking, multiple drawing layers on apps like Procreate, and smooth overall performance. Further, if you choose a higher storage model of iPad Pro with 1TB or 2TB capacity, you will get 16GB of RAM, which allows an even more powerful working environment.

As a side note, keep in mind that neither tablet allows expandable storage through a memory card. Consider investing in adequate onboard storage or make use of cloud storage options and external drives to cater to your storage needs. Ensuring the right balance between storage and performance will ultimately lead to a seamless and enjoyable drawing experience on either device.

Beyond Drawing – Cameras, Sound, and Connectivity

When considering an iPad for drawing, it’s also crucial to look at other essential features beyond drawing capabilities. Both the iPad Air and Pro have proficient cameras and sound systems that can influence the user experience. The iPad Pro comes with a triple camera setup, LiDAR sensor, and a more powerful quad-speaker system, ensuring better audio quality and depth sensing. The iPad Air, on the other hand, includes a single 12MP camera and a dual-speaker system. For those who need additional camera capabilities or better audio quality, it would lean towards the iPad Pro.

Moreover, connectivity is an essential factor in tablet use. The iPad Pro effortlessly connects to high-speed Thunderbolt and USB 4 peripherals. This advantage can be beneficial for transferring large files quickly and reliably, making it a more attractive choice for busy artists. The iPad Air utilizes a USB-C port, which is still superior to the standard Lightning port but not as advanced as the iPad Pro’s Thunderbolt option. Nevertheless, for users who can look past the slower transfer speeds, the iPad Air is still a reliable contender.

Side note: Both iPads have Wi-Fi and the option for cellular connectivity, which can be advantageous for artists on-the-go who need to stay connected while working remotely.

Portability and Usage – Evaluating Battery Life and Weight

The iPad Air and iPad Pro’s portability is determined by factors like battery life and weight. The iPad Air has a slightly higher battery capacity of 28.6Wh, while the 11-inch iPad Pro shares the same battery capacity. This results in a claimed battery life of up to 10 hours for web browsing and video playback. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro, being a larger device, has a 40.88 Wh battery, but the battery life remains around the same due to powering the larger display.

When talking about weight, the iPad Air is slightly lighter than the 11-inch iPad Pro, with just a few grams difference. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro is noticeably heavier due to its larger size and is more suited for artists who prioritize the larger screen over portability. Keep in mind that differences in weight might not be noticeable for most users, but for artists who work on-the-go and hold their tablets for extended periods, it could be a deciding factor.

Pricing Showdown – iPad Air versus iPad Pro

When choosing between the iPad Air or Pro for drawing purposes, the price is undoubtedly a crucial factor. The iPad Air starts at a lower price point compared to the base iPad Pro 11-inch, potentially making it attractive to artists on a budget. However, it’s essential to consider that the Air model with 256GB storage is priced closer to the 128GB iPad Pro 11-inch.

One advantage of going for the higher-priced iPad Pro is the more advanced features it offers. These areas include the ProMotion display, more powerful camera setup, and additional storage options. If the budget permits, artists who expect to use these features frequently could benefit from investing in the iPad Pro.

Accessories for drawing on the iPad

To make the most of an iPad for drawing, compatible accessories are essential. Both the iPad Air and iPad Pro support the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, which is well-regarded in the creative community for its responsiveness, pressure sensitivity, and tilt detection.

Furthermore, magnetic attachment and wireless charging make the Apple Pencil convenient to use and store.

Also see: 7 Best Adjustable iPad Stands

For a more comfortable working experience, investing in a keyboard case can elevate the iPad’s functionality. Both iPad models support the Apple Magic Keyboard, which includes a trackpad and a floating design for adjustable viewing angles. Don’t forget that there are also third-party accessories like drawing gloves and stands to optimize your drawing experience.

What is Pro Motion display on the iPad Pro and why is it good for drawing?

The ProMotion display on the iPad Pro is a notable feature that enhances the drawing experience. Essentially, ProMotion is a 120Hz refresh rate technology, which means the display refreshes 120 times per second.

This higher refresh rate improves the smoothness and responsiveness of the display, making it feel even more natural when drawing with the Apple Pencil.

For artists, the primary advantage of ProMotion is that it reduces latency or lag while drawing, thereby getting closer to the analog drawing experience.

Thanks to the ProMotion display, the Apple Pencil’s response time is reduced, ensuring that the virtual ink appears virtually instantaneously on the screen. This technology can contribute to a better user experience, especially for artists who need precision and fluidity when working on their digital creations.

Can iPad Air and Pro run the same drawing apps?

Yes, both the iPad Air and iPad Pro can run the same drawing apps. These tablets have access to a wide range of apps on the Apple App Store that cater to different artistic purposes, including sketching, painting, illustration, and graphic design.

All popular drawing apps, such as Procreate, Adobe Fresco, and Affinity Designer, are available for both devices.

Also see: Is Procreate worth it for Beginner Artists? (The Truth)

One advantage of having a compatible ecosystem is that you can easily switch between the two devices and continue working on your drawings without any lag or compatibility issues.

It is essential to make sure that your desired drawing app supports your tablet’s hardware, such as Apple Pencil compatibility and processing power. Keep in mind that newer updates of apps might require a more powerful processor, but both the iPad Air and iPad Pro have the M1 and M2 chips, ensuring they will run most drawing applications smoothly.

Side note: Since both devices run on iPadOS, they share the same user interface and functionality, providing a consistent experience regardless of choosing iPad Air or iPad Pro.

My Experience testing the iPad Air Pro on Procreate and Krita

While testing the iPad Air and iPad Pro on popular drawing apps like Procreate and Krita, I found that both devices performed exceptionally well. The Apple Pencil’s responsiveness on both devices was accurate and consistent, and there were no noticeable differences in overall performance.

During the tests, I experimented with various brushes and tools and observed that the iPad Air and iPad Pro handled complex brushes and large canvases gracefully.

Despite having a smaller screen size, the iPad Air provided a satisfying drawing experience, while the iPad Pro felt more premium with its ProMotion display and larger screen real estate.

Related: Krita vs Photoshop: Which software is better for artists?

In terms of app support, Procreate is often considered the top choice for iPad artists. Krita, on the other hand, is known for being a powerful, open-source drawing app available on other platforms.

While Krita is not natively available for the iPad, it’s accessible through the third-party app, Krita Gemini. Although Krita Gemini is a paid app, it brings the convenience and functionality of a desktop drawing app to the iPad platform.

Also see:How to get the Procreate App on MacBook

Storage Options: Choosing Between 128GB and 256GB

Selecting the appropriate storage option for your iPad depends on your individual needs and usage pattern. If you plan to use your iPad primarily for drawing and will not store many other files or apps, a 128GB storage capacity will likely suffice.

However, if you intend to install multiple large drawing apps, store high-resolution project files, or use your tablet for other entertainment and productivity tasks, consider upgrading to a 256GB or larger storage option.

One advantage of having more storage is that it can accommodate a more extensive library of art resources, such as custom brushes, textures, and reference images.

Keep in mind that iPads do not support expandable storage through SD cards. Thus, it’s better to invest in a larger storage capacity from the start to avoid running out of space down the line.

See the 7 Best Tablets with SD Card slot (Expandable storage) if you really prefer a SD card.

RAM: Impact on Multitasking and Layer Support

RAM plays a crucial role in multitasking and supporting more layers in drawing applications. Both the iPad Air and iPad Pro come with 8GB of RAM, which means you can expect your tablet to manage multiple open apps and drawing layers seamlessly.

Higher RAM allows drawing apps like Procreate to handle more complex tasks and larger projects with numerous layers. Layer limitations can inhibit the creative process, so having ample RAM ensures you’ll have room to explore and refine your artwork without constraints.

Side note: Heavy multitasking, such as streaming music while working in a drawing app, can affect iPad performance. However, the 8GB RAM found in both devices should handle these tasks without significant slowdowns.

Design and Weight: Portability Concerns

When choosing between the iPad Air and iPad Pro, portability and design play a significant role. Both devices have slim, sleek profiles that make them easy to carry and work with on-the-go. The iPad Air has a slightly thicker design at 6.4mm, compared to the iPad Pro’s 6.1mm.

The iPad Air is marginally lighter, weighing only 5 grams less than the iPad Pro. These differences are minimal, and their impact on portability and comfort while drawing may not be significant for most users.

For those prioritizing portability, both devices offer a compact design. However, if a larger screen is necessary for your drawing purposes and you don’t mind a slightly heavier tablet, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro might be a better fit.

Camera Features: Relevance for Creative Work

While the camera may not seem essential for drawing purposes, a high-quality camera can be helpful for artists who capture reference photos for their artwork. The iPad Pro features a triple camera setup, while the iPad Air comes with a single, 12MP primary camera. Both cameras are capable of capturing detailed photos and 4K videos.

The iPad Pro provides additional features such as a 10MP ultrawide camera and a LiDAR sensor for depth sensing. These additional features can benefit artists working with 3D design and modeling applications. Overall, both tablets offer high-quality cameras that can serve as useful tools for creative endeavors.

Bottom Line: iPad Air or iPad Pro for Drawing, Artists, and Graphic Design?

Ultimately, the choice between the iPad Air and the iPad Pro as a drawing tablet comes down to individual priorities and budget constraints.

The iPad Air offers a more budget-friendly option, providing a satisfying drawing experience and performance suitable for casual artists and hobbyists.

On the other hand, the iPad Pro offers premium features such as the ProMotion display, a more powerful M2 processor, and additional camera capabilities, making it an attractive choice for full-time artists and graphic design professionals.

As an artist, you should consider your priorities and if you really need a larger display or not for drawing… so screen size, portability, budget, and additional features should be considered for your workflow.

Both Apple devices provide exceptional drawing experiences and cater to various needs; so there’s no wrong choice between the iPad Air and iPad Pro for those looking to create stunning digital artwork.

This blog post will delve deep into the world of iPads for artists, focusing on the best models for various types of creative work and providing key information on their features and capabilities.

Considering a drawing tablet instead of an iPad? See: iPad vs Drawing Tablet: Which is better for an Artist?

From drawing and digital art to graphic design and illustration, our goal is to help you find the perfect iPad to unleash your creativity as an Artist.

So, without further ado, let’s explore the best iPads for artists who are drawing, making digital art, graphic design, illustration, and more.

See how the two compare… iPad Air vs Pro for drawing: Which is better? (Artist Review)

At a Glance – The Best iPads for Drawing & Art

Which iPad you choose for drawing really depends on the display size you desire and battery life, because all iPad models have the performance specs to run Drawing apps like Procreate, Krita, and even Adobe Illustrator.

See: 11 Best iPad Alternatives for Drawing & Digital Art (For Every Budget)

Storage size is less important as you can always upgrade to iCloud if needed, but the iPad Pro wins in this department as well…

The best iPad for Drawing is the iPad Pro 12.9″ due to the display size and battery life, but the iPad Air, Mini, and Classic iPad all run the same drawing apps.

Related: Apple Pencil 2 vs Surface Pen: Which is Better for Drawing & Note Taking?

Also check out: What Stylus Pen do Artists use to Draw on iPad? A Beginners Guide

So what iPad do Professional Artists use? Let’s take a look at our most recent MediaPeanut survey on this:

If you’re running more advanced Art based apps that require 3D Modeling or you’re simultaneously using other apps in addition to your Digital Art apps, then the iPad Pro is the best, followed by the iPad Air models.

(An example of this is someone using an iPad with Procreate along with, multiple browser tabs, other art apps and music playing).

Below is a tablet of each iPad and how they differ for Artists who plan on using drawing or digital art apps:

Modern iPads with iOS 13.2 or higher are suitable for artists, including iPad Pros, iPad Minis, iPad Airs, and Classic iPads. This is because iOS 13.2 is the requirement for Procreate and similar popular drawing apps on iPad.

Older model iPads may require the Apple Pencil 1 rather than the Apple Pencil 2. See Apple Pencil Compatibility here for details on this.

Related: 13 Best iPad Paper Screen Protectors (Paper Like Feel)

Apple Pencil is highly recommended for compatible iPads due to its superior performance and features.

Best iPad models for Drawing and Digital Art

Let’s dive into the best iPads for drawing, digital art, and more (for Artists)

iPad Pro 12.9” (6th Gen) – Best Overall for Artists, drawing, and graphic design

iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Gen), with M2 chip

• Large screen size provides ample workspace, ideal for complex illustrations and resource-intensive tasks.
• Compatible with Apple Pencil 2nd generation for enhanced sensitivity, tilt support, and gesture functionality.
• iPad Pro 12.9 excels in performance, display, and advanced drawing feature

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The iPad Pro 12.9” stands as the best overall choice for artists who prioritize high-level performance, a large display, and advanced features for drawing and graphic design. Armed with Apple’s M1 chip and a stunning 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, this iPad is unmatched in terms of power and efficiency.

Related: Procreate iPad: 7 Best iPads for Procreate

iPad Mini 6 One advantage of the iPad Pro 12.9” is its compatibility with the second-generation Apple Pencil, which offers improved pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and gesture functionality. The ProMotion display technology ensures a smoother drawing experience and more accurate color reproduction.

The large screen size is especially beneficial for complex illustrations and designs, providing ample workspace.

Side note: The iPad Pro 12.9” is also a popular choice among graphic designers due to its capacity to handle resource-intensive tasks such as vector editing and 3D rendering.

iPad (9th gen) – Best for beginner Artists and Digital Art

Apple iPad (9th Gen) Classic iPad

• A13 Bionic Chip enables efficient art creation on various software applications.
• Less powerful and heavier than iPad Pro and Air, but affordable and suitable for most artists.
• Retina display and Apple Pencil compatibility enhance the drawing experience.

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For beginner artists or those exploring the world of digital art, the iPad 10.2-inch is an ideal choice, offering a solid balance of performance, affordability, and usability.

What we liked: This iPad, powered by Apple’s A13 Bionic Chip, provides sufficient power to enable efficient drawing, sketching, and painting using various art software applications, such as Procreate and Adobe Fresco.

Even though the iPad (regular) doesn’t have an M1 or M2 chip, it can run the drawing apps almost any Artist needs on iOS, and it’s less than half the price of an iPad Pro 12.9

The retina display on the iPad delivers a crisp, vibrant canvas for artists to create and experiment on. Additionally, the iPad is compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil, encouraging accurate, pressure-sensitive drawing.

The only downside is that it’s heavier and less powerful (less ram) than the iPad Pro and Air models, but this won’t effect drawing apps like Procreate unless you’re running a ton of other apps in the background

This combination of features and affordability makes the iPad an appealing option for artists starting their digital art journey or casual hobbyists looking for a dependable device.

iPad Air (5th Gen)- Top choice for Artists who travel

Apple iPad Air (5th Generation)

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For artists who prioritize mobility, the iPad Air offers the perfect blend of performance, portability, and features that suit their on-the-go creative lifestyle.

The iPad Air, notably the latest model with a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display, is powered by the A14 Bionic Chip, ensuring a responsive and smooth drawing experience even while traveling.

Also check out: 7 Best Stylus for iPad Air (Drawing, Writing, Notes)

What we liked: The iPad Air also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, providing enhanced stylus precision and functionality. The size and weight of the iPad Air make it easy to carry in a bag or backpack, enabling artists to capture ideas or work on projects wherever they may be.

All in all, the iPad Air is a reliable, powerful, and portable option for artists frequently on the move.

Related: 9 Best Tablets for Traveling

iPad Pro 11 (4th Gen) – Most well rounded and balanced choice for drawing

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (4th Generation)

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The iPad Pro 11 is a well-rounded and balanced option for artists seeking excellent performance without compromising on portability. Like its larger sibling, the iPad Pro 12.9”, the iPad Pro 11 is powered by the M1 chip, providing outstanding efficiency and speed for drawing, sketching, and painting.

With a vibrant 11-inch Liquid Retina Display and compatibility with the Apple Pencil 2, this iPad offers artists a comprehensive toolbox for creating artwork…

The smaller size, compared to the 12.9″ model, offers a compromise between ample screen space and easy transportation, making it a popular choice among many artists.

iPad Mini (6th Gen) – Most portable iPad for Artists

Apple iPad Mini (6th Gen)

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The iPad Mini positions itself as the most portable iPad for artists, featuring an 8.3-inch screen and compatibility with Apple Pencil 2 for an ultra-compact drawing experience.

Powered by the A15 Bionic Chip, the iPad Mini 6 offers snappy performance despite its diminutive size, allowing artists to work on creating stunning visuals wherever they may be.

The Liquid Retina Display ensures vibrant, accurate colors, making it an attractive option for artists who prioritize mobility. Keep in mind that the small screen size may limit intricate or detailed work. However, if portability and convenience are your top priorities, the iPad Mini 6 is an excellent option to consider.

Which iPad model are the best for Digital Art & Graphic design?

The 12.9-inch iPad Pro 5th generation, is hailed as the top choice for digital art and graphic design. It boasts an exceptional Liquid Retina XDR display, a powerful M1 processor, and Apple Pencil 2 compatibility, offering artists unmatched performance and precision.

One advantage is the model’s large working space, catering to detailed and intricate projects, yet still maintaining its portability.

Side note: the 11-inch iPad Pro 5th generation is also a fantastic choice for those seeking a slightly smaller yet equally powerful option.

Why iPads are good for Art and creatives

Artists and creatives are drawn to iPads due to their combination of power, portability, and precision. The intuitive touch interface, high-resolution displays, and compatibility with a wide range of drawing apps make them the perfect digital canvas for creatives on-the-go.

The Apple Pencil offers natural, pressure-sensitive input, mimicking the feel of traditional media while maintaining the flexibility and convenience of digital art.

The iPad’s seamless integration with a vast array of creative software and accessories provide an all-in-one solution for a multitude of artistic projects. The next best option is the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 or the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+

Also see: Apple Pencil 2 vs Surface Pen: Which is Better for Drawing & Note Taking?

How to pick the Ideal iPad if you’re an Artist or creative

To choose the ideal iPad for art and creative work, consider factors like display size, processor speed, pen pressure sensitivity, display resolution, color accuracy, latency, battery life, storage capacity, software/apps compatibility, price, and portability. A larger display size may benefit artists working on detailed projects, while a smaller size may offer a more portable option.

The processor speed determines the device’s capability to handle resource-intensive tasks, while pen pressure sensitivity affects drawing accuracy and detail. High display resolution and color accuracy help render your artwork true to life, providing a professional edge.

Low latency ensures smooth, natural pen strokes, and extended battery life allows for extended creative sessions. Keep in mind that sufficient storage capacity is crucial for managing various files and projects. Compatibility with your preferred software and apps should also be a determining factor, as not all apps function optimally on all iPad models.

Finally, consider your budget when selecting an iPad, balancing desired features with overall cost and portability.

Also see: 12 Best Tablets for Cricut Design Space (Artist Guide)

Determining iPad Costs for Drawing Purposes

When selecting an iPad for drawing, keep in mind that prices can vary greatly depending on the model and features.

Basic iPads can range from $300 to $500, while iPad Pro models range between $800 and $1,200 even, depending on the storage capacity and screen size.

Remember that investing in a suitable stylus, such as the Apple Pencil or other compatible options, is crucial for precise drawing and will add to the overall cost.

Additionally, artists may need to purchase or subscribe to specialized drawing and design apps that can range from a one-time fee to a monthly subscription.

Is the Apple Pencil required for making Art on the iPad?

While the Apple Pencil is not a strict requirement for creating art on the iPad, it is highly recommended for precision, accuracy, and a more natural drawing experience.

There are other stylus options available, such as the Adonit Pro or Wacom’s Bamboo Pencil. However, the Apple Pencil’s compatibility, pressure sensitivity, tilt control, and palm rejection capabilities make it the ideal choice for most artists.

See our post on the Apple Pencil vs Stylus: Worth Paying An Extra $70?

It’s important to note that the Apple Pencil comes in two generations, each compatible with specific iPad models, so make sure to choose the one that is suited for your device.

Our Process for Selecting and Ranking the Top Drawing iPads

When selecting and ranking the top drawing iPads for artists, we considered a long list of factors, including iPad specifications, display quality, and performance. T

o begin our analysis, we examined the iPad models currently available on the market, paying special attention to the processor, RAM, storage capacity, and display technology. We also took into account the compatibility of iPads with different generations of the Apple Pencil, as well as the availability of other high-quality stylus alternatives.

One advantage we sought out during this process was the ability to handle drawing apps, including Procreate, Adobe Fresco, and Clip Studio Paint. While ranking the best iPads for drawing, we also made sure to consider artist feedback, expert reviews, and overall affordability.

The final ranking represents devices that perform not only as standalone tablets but also excel in drawing and digital art applications.

Exploring Drawing-Compatible iPad Alternatives

It’s important to keep in mind that there are other tablet options for artists aside from iPads. Devices such as the Microsoft Surface Pro, Samsung Galaxy Tab S7, and Wacom MobileStudio Pro are all drawing-compatible and offer similar design capabilities.

However, iPads have gained popularity among artists due to their exceptional performance and user-friendly experience, making them a top choice for many.

Side note: Though non-iPad alternatives offer their advantages, they may come with different operating systems, app ecosystems, and hardware requirements. Artists who choose alternative devices should research compatibility with their preferred drawing applications and styluses.

The best tablet choice for an artist will ultimately depend on their personal needs and work style, so it’s worth weighing the pros and cons of iPads against other tablet options before making a decision.

For more on this, see our post on the 11 Best iPad Alternatives for Drawing & Digital Art (For Every Budget)

Comparing iPad Pro and iPad Air for Artists

When comparing the iPad Pro and iPad Air for drawing and digital art, several factors come into play. The iPad Pro lineup offers larger display sizes and impressive performance, including unmatched processing power stemming from the M1 chip in the latest models.

See our full post on this: iPad Air vs Pro: Compared for drawing, graphic design, and more.

As a result, the iPad Pro devices excel in handling demanding drawing applications and display higher-resolution artwork more fluidly.

On the other hand, the iPad Air scores points for its lightweight design and more approachable pricing, while still delivering robust performance for drawing applications.

Artists looking for a balance between price, portability, and power may find the iPad Air a more suitable choice, while those prioritizing maximum performance and display quality may lean toward the iPad Pro.

Also see: iPad vs Laptop Pros and Cons: Replacing a Laptop with iPad

Compatibility with Procreate and iOS

Procreate is a popular drawing app for iPad artists and is compatible with most iPad devices running iOS 13.2 or higher. As a result, models including the iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad Mini, and the regular iPad all support Procreate and can harness its drawing tools, brushes, and other features.

However, it’s essential to note that not all iPad models support the latest Apple Pencil, which offers the most seamless drawing experience in conjunction with Procreate.

Checking the compatibility of Apple Pencil generations with your chosen iPad is necessary before investing in an iPad for drawing.

Moreover, other drawing apps such as Adobe Fresco and Clip Studio Paint are also compatible with most iPads and can be great alternatives to Procreate.

Familiarizing yourself with these alternate apps’ system requirements will help ensure your chosen iPad model meets their specifications and can run them smoothly.

See: How to get the Procreate App on MacBook

Diving deeper into the iPad options for Artists

iPad Mini Options for Budget Artists

The iPad Mini lineup offers artists on a tight budget an affordable yet capable option for drawing and digital art.

The compact form factor of iPad Mini models makes them incredibly convenient for artists who prioritize mobility. With screen sizes measuring 7.9 inches and 8.3 inches for the iPad Mini 5 and iPad Mini 6, respectively, these devices provide a decent-sized canvas for artists who don’t require exceptionally large screens.

One advantage of the iPad Mini lineup is their performance capabilities. Both iPad Mini 5 and iPad Mini 6 are equipped with powerful chips, the A12 Bionic in the 5th generation and A15 Bionic in the 6th generation, ensuring a smooth creative process for a wide range of drawing tasks.

Also see: How to Fix your iPad Mini battery Draining so Quickly

Although they might not match the power of the latest iPad Pro models, these devices are more than capable of handling most digital art applications.

Side note: Keep in mind that only the iPad Mini 5 is compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil, while the newer iPad Mini 6 is compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil. This compatibility makes it easier than ever for artists to create beautiful and detailed works using these portable devices, without sacrificing quality or performance.

Exploring the iPad Air Lineup

Artists who want to strike a balance between outstanding performance and affordability should consider the iPad Air lineup. The iPad Air models offer impressive displays and powerful processors, providing a great middle ground for artists who do not require the absolute highest specs but still covet an exceptional drawing experience.

The iPad Air 3, featuring a 10.5-inch screen, is equipped with the A12 Bionic chip, ensuring solid performance for everyday tasks and drawing applications. On the other hand, the iPad Air 4 boasts a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and an A14 Bionic chip, ensuring smooth handling of more demanding applications, multitasking, and digital art projects.

See our post on exactly how long iPads last – iPad Air & Pro

Both iPad Air 3 and iPad Air 4 support the first-generation Apple Pencil, making these devices great options for artists who want an excellent drawing experience without breaking the bank.

The iPad Air lineup presents a compelling option for artists who want a balance between affordability and outstanding performance.

Are there Apple Pencil alternatives for artists using the iPad?

While the Apple Pencil is a popular and renowned option for artists using an iPad, there are alternative styluses available for those who need better compatibility with their devices or software. Logitech Crayon, Adonit Dash 3, Adonit Pixel, Wacom’s Bamboo Fineline, and Bamboo Sketch are all excellent alternatives to the Apple Pencil, ensuring compatibility with Procreate and other drawing applications, without sacrificing functionality.

Also see Apple Pencil vs Stylus: Worth Paying An Extra $70?

Logitech Crayon is an ideal alternative stylus, suitable for drawing and note-taking, offering tilt recognition and palm rejection. Adonit Dash 3 is a slim, fast-charging stylus that’s compatible with a wide range of iPads. Adonit Pixel, on the other hand, is a powerful alternative to Apple Pencil, sporting 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity and pixel-perfect precision.

Wacom’s Bamboo lineup, consisting of the Fineline and Sketch, provides reliable and robust performance for artists using an iPad.

Both feature pressure sensitivity, customizable buttons, and ergonomic designs, ensuring a comfortable drawing experience.

Make sure to research each stylus’s compatibility with your specific iPad model and drawing software before purchasing, as compatibility may vary between devices and applications. With alternative styluses available, artists using iPads can have greater flexibility in their drawing toolkit, enabling them to create beautiful and detailed works on their devices.

What iPad do professional artists use?

Professional artists often gravitate towards the iPad Pro models, specifically the 12.9-inch and 11-inch versions. These tablets, powered by the M1 chip, provide incredible performance and processing capabilities that elevate the digital art experience.

The Pro models also feature stunning displays, such as the 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with its striking color accuracy and HDR performance. Larger screens enable more detailed and intricate work, which is critical for professionals.

One advantage of using an iPad Pro for art is the compatibility with the second-generation Apple Pencil.

This stylus magnetically attaches to the iPad while charging and offers improved features such as lower latency and a more ergonomic design. Furthermore, the ProMotion technology in the displays facilitates fluid pen strokes and a responsive drawing experience.

Benefits of drawing on an iPad.

Side note: Drawing on an iPad offers numerous advantages over traditional drawing tools and methods. One of the most significant benefits is mobility. With its compact size and lightweight design, an iPad allows artists to create wherever inspiration strikes, granting unparalleled freedom.

Another significant advantage is cost-efficiency. Instead of investing in multiple art supplies such as pens, pencils, brushes, and paper, artists can access a wide array of digital tools and canvas sizes on their iPad.

The digital art environment also reduces waste, encouraging sustainable practices.

Digital art creation also facilitates easy alterations and experimenting with various styles and techniques, without incurring additional expense or resource use. Instant sharing, collaboration, and integration with other creative software streamline the art creation process, benefiting artists in the long run.

Comparison of Apple Pencil versions.

There are two versions of the Apple Pencil, both catered to specific iPad models. The original Apple Pencil, which is compatible with many older iPads, charges via a Lightning connection.

In contrast, the second-generation Apple Pencil, designed for more recent iPad models, magnetically attaches and wirelessly charges.

See our post on: Apple Pencil 1 vs 2- Key Differences Explained (Compared)

The Apple Pencil 2 also boasts an improved design, featuring a flat edge to prevent roller motion and enhance grip. The newer version allows artists to quickly switch between tools via a double-tap function, increasing efficiency and ease of use when drawing.

However, both versions come with pressure and tilt sensitivity, offering precision and a natural drawing experience. Choosing the correct Apple Pencil version depends on the iPad model you’re using and your creative needs.

Best drawing apps for iPad

As artists continue to adopt the iPad as their primary drawing tool, numerous professional-grade drawing apps have emerged.

Procreate, a popular choice among artists, boasts an intuitive interface, numerous brushes, and easy layer management. Adobe Fresco, compatible with Photoshop, delivers a high-quality drawing experience and allows seamless integration with the Adobe Creative Cloud.

See the Procreate iPad: 7 Best iPads for Procreate

Here’s a drawing I personally made on iPad with the Procreate App:

Clip Studio Paint, another popular option, caters to illustrators, comic artists, and animators, offering access to vast brush libraries and industry-standard tools.

Pixelmator Pro and Autodesk Sketchbook are also solid choices, providing artists with the tools they need to create stunning digital artwork. Depending on your needs, style, and skill level, selecting the most appropriate drawing app is essential to maximizing your iPad’s potential.

How to optimize your iPad for drawing?

To ensure an enjoyable and efficient drawing experience, it’s vital to optimize your iPad’s settings. Begin by disabling any features that cause interruptions or distractions during drawing sessions, such as notifications, app badges, and sounds. Next, enable ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode to reduce unnecessary external stimuli.

See: iPad vs Drawing Tablet: Which is better for an Artist?

In the iPad’s settings, access the ‘Apple Pencil’ tab and customize the double-tap function to suit your preferred workflow. Adjusting the pressure curve ensures a more natural drawing experience, tailored to your unique grip and stroke intensity.

Finally, organize your drawing apps and files to streamline your workflow. Create folders or use iPadOS features like the Files app or iCloud Drive to store projects, easily locate resources, and collaborate with fellow creatives. By following these steps, your iPad will become a powerful, organized, and user-friendly drawing tool.

Related: 11 Best iPad Alternatives for Drawing & Digital Art (For Every Budget)

Related: iPad vs Wacom: Which is Better for Digital Art? (Full Review)

In this blog post, we will compare the iPad vs a Drawing Tablet, which includes graphics tablets, pen tablets with a screen, and more.

Related: 11 Best iPad Alternatives for Drawing & Digital Art (For Every Budget)

We’ll cover various factors such as functionality, pressure sensitivity, size, compatibility, and price to help you make a decision about which device is best suited for artists of all types.

Keep in mind though, with the XP-Pen Magic drawing pad out now, the ipad has some competition

iPad vs Drawing Tablet: Which is better for Digital Art & Graphic design?

iPads are very user-friendly, suitable for various tasks and ideal for beginner artists… while Drawing tablets are designed specifically for digital art, sometimes with higher pressure sensitivity, larger screens, more customization, and professional software compatibility. However, drawing tablets are generally less portable and more affordable than iPads.

Also see: 5 Best iPads for Artists (Drawing, Digital Art, and more)

As far as performance, the iPad just as good as many drawing tablets, but the battery life of an iPad can be a big downside, so it’s really a different setup overall.

• The big advantage is that you can use procreate on an iPad, which is exclusive to iOS. If you want to use a Windows only drawing app or need a larger display than 12.9 inches, then a drawing tablet is more ideal and an iPad may not be the best choice.
• However, to use your iPad as a drawing tablet with a MacBook you could download  an app like Luna Display by Astropad or another duet display alternative, which works to solve for this.
• Graphics tablets without a screen are significantly less expensive than an iPad, while Pen Tablets (drawing tablets with a screen) are somewhat in the same price range ($350+)… but you’ll need a laptop or PC to use a graphics tablet… so the pricing is tough to compare objectively.

Keep in mind, there are standalone devices like the Wacom mobile studio pro which doesn’t need a PC to draw with. There are also Pen tablets that have a screen, but they need to be attached to a laptop for desktop – an example of this is the Wacom Cintiq, Huion KAMVAS, or the XP-Pen Artist 12

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch

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When it comes to deciding between an iPad and a drawing tablet for digital art and graphic design, one must consider factors like pressure sensitivity, software compatibility, and portability.

Also see: 7 Best Drawing Tablets for Mac

An iPad can offer a portable, all-in-one solution with a varied range of built-in apps and the Apple Pencil.

You can also view Which Apple Pencil works with your iPad (Compatibility Chart)

On the other hand, drawing tablets provide a more specialized stylus, also with high levels of precision and access to industry-standard software.

Advantages of using an iPad instead of a drawing tablet

Utilizing an iPad for digital art presents some key advantages. One distinct advantage is the ease of file sharing and collaboration that iPads provide. Most of all Procreate is an app exclusive to iPads that makes it the biggest advantage to using it over a drawing tablet – since you can’t use drawing tablets with procreate.

See: Procreate iPad: 7 Best iPads for Procreate

With cloud storage integration and compatibility with the full ecosystem of Apple devices, artists can efficiently share their creations with clients or collaborate with other team members.

Moreover, the iPad allows for multitasking with its split-screen feature, enabling artists to work on their projects while browsing the web or watching tutorial videos.

Another advantage is the high-quality display found in iPads, with vibrant colors and Retina-level resolution.

These displays make it easier for artists to see their work come to life, giving them a more accurate representation of their final product. Besides, the long battery life of most iPads enables artists to work without interruptions and without worrying about finding an outlet mid-project.

Also see: 5 Best Wireless Drawing Tablets

iPad can function as a drawing tablet for Mac with Duet display app

One of the lesser-known advantages of iPads is their ability to turn into a drawing tablet for Mac computers when using the Duet Display app. With this app, users can connect their iPad to their Mac, turning it into an extended display.

See: Top 10 Duet Display Alternatives (Free and Paid)

This allows artists not only to mirror their computer’s desktop onto the iPad screen but also to interact with it using the Apple Pencil. This feature comes in handy for those who already have an iPad and a Mac in their toolkit and would like to utilize a drawing tablet-like experience without the additional expenses.

Advantages of using a drawing tablet instead of an iPad for drawing

For those who prioritize precision and accuracy in their artwork, a drawing tablet can offer several benefits over iPads. One advantage is the higher pressure sensitivity levels found in drawing tablets. While the iPad’s Apple Pencil provides remarkable pressure sensitivity, dedicated drawing tablet styluses often offer higher levels of sensitivity, leading to finer control over brushstrokes and line work.

Another advantage of drawing tablets is their compatibility with industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite, providing artists with access to the same tools and functionality used by professionals. In addition, drawing tablets are designed specifically for drawing, resulting in displays with wider color gamuts and faster response times, which can make a noticeable difference in the overall artistic experience.

Limitations and downsides of using an iPad as a drawing tablet

Despite the numerous advantages that iPads offer, they come with certain limitations when comparing them to dedicated drawing tablets. One primary concern is the less sensitive pressure levels of the Apple Pencil, which might not meet the expectations of professional digital artists seeking the hig

hest possible precision.

Furthermore, iPads are not equipped to support all desktop-grade design software, potentially limiting users in their choice of software and tools. Artists who rely on specific desktop applications might find iPads unsatisfactory for their artistic endeavors.

Lastly, the physical size of the iPad’s screen might not be large enough for those who seek a vast canvas to work on their intricate artwork. In contrast, drawing tablets can offer a more extensive range of sizes, some even exceeding 32 inches, granting artists greater flexibility for their creative projects.

How each iPad models compares to a graphics tablet

iPad Pro vs Drawing Tablet

The iPad Pro is designed with powerful internals, offering an efficient and seamless drawing experience. One advantage is that the iPad Pro boasts a 120Hz display, which results in smooth, lag-free strokes. Moreover, the expansive 12.9-inch screen with retina resolution allows artists to work with ample space and enjoy the vivid colors of their creations.

On the other hand, drawing tablets can offer larger screen sizes up to 32 inches, but may not feature high-resolution displays like the iPad Pro. Side note: pressure sensitivity levels in iPads are generally lower than graphic tablets, but the Apple Pencil 2 does provide a realistic and natural drawing experience for most artists.

Drawing tablets allow users to access professional drawing software such as Adobe Creative Suite, which could be an important consideration for professional artists.

See: 7 Best Drawing Tablets for Photoshop & Illustrator

iPads, however, run mobile-focused programs like Procreate, Fresco, and the mobile versions of Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. These apps are user-friendly and accessible, but artists focusing on highly detailed work could benefit from the flexibility provided by the software found on drawing tablets.

While a drawing tablet could provide more features for professionals, another advantage of the iPad Pro is its portability. As a standalone device, thanks to its lightweight and compact design, it can be used almost anywhere. Drawing tablets typically need a connection to a computer, limiting portability. Cost-wise, the iPad Pro can be pricier than many drawing tablets; however, with its multiple functionalities, it’s a worth considering investment.

Also see: 7 Best Drawing Tablets that Dont Need a Computer (Standalone)

iPad Air vs Drawing Tablet

The iPad Air is an intermediate option between the base-level iPad and the high-end iPad Pro. Offering an improved performance compared to the standard iPad, it provides a 10.9-inch display with retina resolution. This size is suitable for beginners and intermediate artists. Keep in mind, though, that drawing tablets can still offer larger screens and higher pressure sensitivity levels.

The iPad Air is compatible with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil and supports several drawing apps such as Procreate and Adobe Fresco. These apps provide a seamless drawing experience, but connecting the iPad Air to a computer may not be as straightforward compared to drawing tablets when using desktop software.

One advantage of the iPad Air is its lightweight design and all-in-one package, making it a superb choice for artists who are mobile or have limited workspace. Drawing tablets, while powerful and efficient, require a computer connection which could limit portability. Cost-wise, the iPad Air is cheaper than the iPad Pro, but it still might be more expensive than basic drawing tablets.

iPad mini vs Drawing Tablet

The iPad mini is the smallest and most portable iPad option, with a 7.9-inch Retina display. Its compact size is ideal for artists seeking a device they can carry with them and use for quick sketches or note-taking. However, the limited screen size might not be optimal for those who require more workspace or highly detailed illustrations.

The iPad mini supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, which delivers a reasonably good drawing experience, but its pressure sensitivity may not be as accurate as dedicated drawing tablets. Like all iPads, the iPad mini provides access to various drawing apps, but the smaller screen could make utilizing the more advanced features of these apps less convenient.

When it comes to portability, the iPad mini is unmatched in the iPad lineup. This advantage makes it an excellent choice for artists who need a lightweight, travel-friendly device for quick sketches or brainstorming.

While drawing tablets can offer larger screens and higher pressure sensitivity levels, they are often less portable than an iPad mini. In terms of price, the iPad mini is considerably cheaper than its bigger iPad variants, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists or those who deem portability as a top priority.

iPad compared to a Drawing tablet: All aspects compared in-depth

Drawing apps

When it comes to digital art, having access to a diverse range of drawing apps is essential for nurturing creativity. iPads have the advantage of offering an extensive library of drawing and design apps tailored for mobile devices. Some top choices include Procreate, Adobe Fresco, and the Affinity Suite, which are all designed to work seamlessly with the Apple Pencil.

On the flip side, drawing tablets generally rely on desktop software for their artistic capabilities. Tablets that are connected to a computer allow users to access industry-standard software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and CorelDRAW. There’s even apps like autoCAD and Sketchup.

The learning curve for this software can be steeper for beginners, but it presents a plethora of features that may not be available in mobile-specific apps. Side note: Both platforms continue to evolve, offering new, in-depth options for artists, which means that app availability and functionality may change over time as new programs and features are developed.

Battery life

Battery life is an important factor when choosing between an iPad and a drawing tablet. iPads boast impressive battery life, with most models offering up to 10 hours of continuous usage.

This ensures that artists can create for an extended period without constantly worrying about recharging their device. However, it is worth mentioning that more intensive tasks, such as using drawing apps, may consume more battery power and potentially reduce overall battery life.

See: Why Your iPad Battery is Draining so Fast (and how to fix it)

In contrast, battery life is not a concern for wired drawing tablets, as they derive power directly from the connected computer. Standalone drawing tablets with built-in batteries, such as Wacom’s Mobile Studio Pro, have a varying battery life that can range from 5 to 8 hours, depending on usage.

One advantage drawing tablets have is that they can often be used while charging, which can help maintain productivity without interruptions.

Display and Canvas Space

Artists require sufficient screen space to work on detailed projects, making the display and canvas space a critical consideration. iPads come in various sizes, with the largest being the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, which may be suitable for most casual artists and those who value portability. However, some professionals may find this size limiting and would benefit from a larger canvas.

Drawing tablets come in a wide array of sizes, with some high-end options like the Wacom Cintiq Pro 32, offering a 32-inch screen. This expansive canvas provides ample space for precision and detail, making it ideal for professional artists who require a dedicated workspace. The trade-off, however, is that larger tablets can be bulky and less portable than the smaller iPad models.

Pressure Sensitivity

Pressure sensitivity is a crucial consideration for any digital artist, as it greatly impacts their control over stroke weight and opacity. iPads, when paired with the Apple Pencil, offer impressive pressure sensitivity levels, usually around 4,096 points. This provides a natural drawing experience and is suitable for most users, ranging from casual doodlers to professional illustrators.

Drawing tablets, on the other hand, offer even greater pressure sensitivity levels, with some devices boasting up to 8,192 points. This increased sensitivity permits exceptional stroke variation and greater control of the drawing process for artists who desire a more realistic experience. High-end devices, such as the Wacom Intuos Pro, excel in this aspect, delivering superior control compared to their iPad counterparts.

Flexibility, Connectivity, and Portability

Portability and convenience play essential roles in determining whether an iPad or drawing tablet is right for you. iPads are lightweight, standalone devices that can function without any additional hardware. This makes them ideal for working in various locations and situations, offering maximum portability and instant access to drawing apps.

Drawing tablets, conversely, often require a connection to a computer and accompanying software. This reduces their portability and flexibility, particularly for those needing to draw outside of their primary workspace.

Standalone drawing tablets do exist, but they are often heavier and more expensive than iPads, making them less convenient for those who like to work on-the-go. Ultimately, the decision between an iPad and a drawing tablet will rely on the artist’s preferences for flexibility, connectivity, and portability, based on their unique needs and work habits.

Software Options

When comparing iPad and drawing tablets, one key factor to consider is the availability of software options. iPads offer a range of applications for drawing, sketching, and digital painting that cater to various skill levels. Popular apps such as Procreate, Adobe Fresco, and Affinity Designer, provide rich features and cater to a range of artistic styles. While these applications are powerful, some professionals may miss the full functionality provided by desktop programs like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or CorelDRAW.

On the other hand, drawing tablets support a wider variety of professional, industry-standard software since they are connected to PCs or Macs. This means artists can work with more advanced tools, layer effects, and file management capabilities, offering greater potential for detailed and intricate work. However, the learning curve might be steeper for users new to these programs compared to iPad apps, which are generally more intuitive.

Also see: Surface Pro models vs iPad Pro for Drawing & Art (Compared)

It’s essential to identify your artistic needs and evaluate whether an iPad’s software options are sufficient for your workflow, or if a drawing tablet with access to desktop programs better meets your requirements.

User Experience

The user experience of an iPad and a drawing tablet varies, impacting the overall drawing process and output. Drawing tablets with screens, like Wacom Cintiq and XP-Pen Artist, provide a more traditional, hands-on feel. The stylus often has customizable buttons for shortcuts, and their displays provide a textured surface reminiscent of paper, offering artists a precise and natural drawing experience.

Also, you can Discover the Latest XP-Pen Technology with Artist Pro 16 (Gen 2)

The iPad, while also offering a high-quality drawing experience, has a more seamless, touch-based user interface. Apple Pencil has fewer customizable buttons, and the iPad’s glass screen can feel less natural to some artists.

However, the iPad’s intuitive user interface and easily accessible adjustments to brush size, color, and opacity provide an appealing convenience for many users. The addition of a matte screen protector can help replicate the textured feel of a drawing tablet’s screen.

Also check out our post on the 5 Best iPads for Note-Taking (Hint: Screen size matters)

Deciding which device’s user experience suits you best depends on how much you value the natural feel versus the modern, touch-controlled interface of an iPad.

Multifunctionality

While primarily designed for drawing, iPads offer a plethora of features beyond artistic pursuits. An iPad can be used for tasks like browsing the web, streaming videos, playing games, or taking notes, making it a versatile investment. With its robust hardware, users can run multiple applications simultaneously, switching effortlessly between work and recreational activities.

Drawing tablets, in contrast, are created for a specific purpose: creating digital art. They don’t possess the range of functions that an iPad does. While drawing tablets can often be used for navigating computer interfaces or editing images and documents, their primary function remains as an artistic tool.

Individuals looking for a device that offers more than just artistic capabilities may find an iPad a better option, while those who require a dedicated and specialized tool for creating digital art may prefer a drawing tablet.

Pen Tablets with a Screen vs Computer Tablets

While comparing iPads and drawing tablets, it’s essential to consider the different types of drawing tablets available. Pen tablets without a screen, such as Wacom Intuos, are more budget-friendly but require users to draw while looking at their computer monitor, which might feel less natural.

Pen displays, on the other hand, allow users to draw directly on the tablet’s screen, such as Cintiq and XP-Pen Artist. However, these tend to be more expensive and still require connection to a computer.

See our choices of the top Best Budget Drawing Tablets with Screen Built-in

Computer tablets, like Microsoft Surface Pro or iPad, function as standalone devices and provide screen drawing capabilities without the need for a separate computer. These devices offer the advantage of portability and self-contained functionality, making them ideal for artists who need to work on the go.

My Experience Testing an iPad vs a Graphics Tablet

During my time as a graphic-designer, I have experimented with both iPads and graphics tablets for creating digital artwork. I found that iPads offer greater convenience and portability, allowing me to work on projects in different environments and make changes on the fly. However, the lack of shortcut buttons and the glass surface could sometimes hinder my workflow.

In contrast, drawing tablets provided me with a natural, paper-like drawing experience and better access to professional desktop software. This meant that I could create more detailed and complex projects with greater efficiency. However, they are often bulkier and less portable compared to an iPad.

See: PaperLike vs PaperFeel: Are they Comparable? (Drawing & Note-Taking)

Ultimately, my choice between an iPad and a drawing tablet depended on the specific project requirements and my personal artistic preferences. While both devices have their unique strengths and weaknesses, evaluating your artistic needs and style can help you determine which device best suits your situation.

Can I use ipad as drawing tablet for Windows or Mac

Yes, you can use an iPad as a drawing tablet for both Windows and Mac computers. This is made possible through the use of various helper apps that are available for download. Some popular apps to bridge the connection between your iPad and computer include Astropad, Luna Display, Duet Display, Sidecar, and EasyCanvas.

You’ll want to check out the 7 Best Drawing Tablets for Mac (Full Guide), which covers a lot of information you may want to know on this.

These apps effectively transform your iPad into a graphics tablet, allowing you to draw using your favorite drawing software on your computer.

To begin using your iPad as a drawing tablet, first download and install the appropriate helper app on both your iPad and computer. Once installed, follow the instructions provided by the app to establish a connection between the two devices. It is essential to make sure your iPad and computer are on the same Wi-Fi network for a seamless experience.

Using an iPad as a drawing tablet provides a versatile solution, as it doesn’t require a laptop or PC connection like dedicated drawing tablets, offering a unique pricing perspective.

It is important to consider factors such as pressure sensitivity, screen response, and overall user experience when deciding whether to use an iPad as a drawing tablet for your Windows or Mac.

Also see: iPad vs Laptop Pros and Cons: Replacing a Laptop with iPad

Can the iPad Double as a Drawing Tablet?

The iPad, when combined with the Apple Pencil, can indeed double as a drawing tablet. While the iPad is a multi-purpose device that caters to various tasks, its compatibility with Apple Pencil allows for a drawing experience comparable to that of dedicated drawing tablets. Drawing apps like Procreate, Adobe Fresco, and Affinity Suite offer a seamless drawing experience on iPads that rivals dedicated drawing tablets.

Also see: 7 Best Digital Art Pads & Tablets for Beginner Artists

The iPad offers certain advantages over dedicated drawing tablets, such as portability, a simple user interface, and a wide range of drawing apps specifically designed for mobile devices. This makes it an appealing choice for hobbyists, beginners, and even some professionals who prioritize a versatile, portable device for digital art creation.

Related: 7 Ways to Use Your Phone as a Drawing Tablet (Android & iPhone)

However, iPads may not offer the same level of pressure sensitivity, programmable shortcuts, or certain dedicated software as dedicated drawing tablets. Side note: iPads also have a slightly steeper price point compared to some basic drawing tablet models.

In the end, whether an iPad can double as a drawing tablet depends on the artist’s needs and preferences (see our post on Best iPads for Drawing for more on this) It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of each device, keeping in mind factors such as budget, software requirements, and desired functionality, before making a decision.

Looking to sketch your way into the digital world but not ready to leap into Apple’s ecosystem with the iPad? Fret not, there’s a whole universe of creative options!

Related: Surface Pro models vs iPad Pro for Drawing & Art (Compared)

First off, let’s dispel the myth that the only path to digital drawing is through Procreate and Apple Pencil. While these two make a dynamic duo, several alternatives offer a comparable, if not an equally exciting, artistic journey.

Visit the 13 Best iPad Alternatives for all purposes, not just drawing.

In this post, we’ll cover every alternative to the iPad for drawing and graphic design specifically, including computer tablets, 2-in-1 tablets, e-ink devices, as well as alternate stylus options to compete with the apple pencil and iPad experience.

See: The Best Procreate Alternatives for Android

Key Takeaways

Among the wealth of alternatives, Microsoft Surface Pro 9, Samsung Galaxy S8+, and Lenovo Yoga 9i models stand tall, offering exceptional alternative options to the iPad for your digital drawing needs. 

Also see: 5 Best iPads for Artists (Drawing, Digital Art, and more)

Before diving in, though, keep in mind your specific needs. Unless you’re using an advanced drawing app, super advanced RAM over 16GB or the fastest processor might be an overkill.

Instead, focus on your chosen drawing app’s requirements.

Also see: Procreate iPad: 7 Best iPads for Procreate

Speaking of apps, have you thought about what drawing apps you’ll be using? The world of digital sketching isn’t just about hardware; software makes a considerable difference, too.

Alternatives to the iPad for drawing aren’t just Computer tablets

For those who are looking for a note-taking companion that can handle a dash of doodling, e-ink devices could be just the ticket….

These devices, like the reMarkable 2, SuperNote, and Kindle Scribe, are mainly designed for note-taking and annotating PDFs, but also work for drawing.

Also see: reMarkable 2 Vs iPad Pro & Air – Which is better? (Key differences)

However, they offer a canvas for your sketches, albeit in black and white. For a pop of color, there’s the MobiScribe Wave Color, although these devices are still primarily designed for note-taking and sketching quick drawings for notes.

Also see: Best Note taking apps for iPad

Broaden your horizons a bit more and you’ll discover that not all tablets need to be, well, ‘tablets’.

Consider 2-in-1 laptop/tablet hybrids or graphics tablets, which provide an excellent alternative to traditional tablets like the iPad.

They might not exactly fit the ‘tablet’ bill, but they can still deliver an outstanding drawing experience.

At A Glance – Top iPad Alternatives for Drawing

Let’s take a quick glance at the devices that are the most premium alternatives to drawing on the iPad

1. Microsoft Surface Pro 9: Windows Powerhouse for Artists

Microsoft Surface Pro 9e

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The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 deserves a top spot on the list of iPad alternatives for drawing due to its impressive performance and slick design. T

Also see: 8 Best Surface Pro Alternatives (With Active Pens)

he Surface Pro 9 runs on Windows, providing artists with a desktop-like experience, allowing them to tap into the full potential of professional software such as Adobe Creative Cloud. This feature sets it apart from other tablet offerings and makes it a unique alternative to the iPad for drawing enthusiasts.

Side note: The Surface Pro 9 tablet is compatible with the Surface Pen 2 stylus, offering 4,096 pressure sensitivity levels and advanced haptic feedback for an incredibly precise drawing experience.

One advantage of the Surface Pro 9 is its versatility in terms of how it can be used. When paired with the Type Cover keyboard, it effectively transforms into a laptop, providing creatives with even more flexibility and power in their workflow.

Also… the vibrant 13-inch PixelSense display is ideal for artists in need of accurate color representation and a high level of clarity. Another selling point for many artists is that the Surface Pro 9 offers several configurations in terms of processing power and storage space, allowing users to choose the best-suited option for their creative needs.

In terms of connectivity, the Surface Pro 9 is well-equipped with a USB Type-C port, a USB Type-A port, Surface Connect, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

This variety of ports enables seamless connection to a range of external peripherals and accessories, further enhancing its appeal to artists seeking an iPad alternative for drawing and designing.

2. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+: A Vibrant Canvas for Creatives

SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S8+

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The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ shines as a powerful and exciting alternative to the iPad, delivering a premium drawing experience for artists on the go. The Tab S8+ boasts a vibrant 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, allowing artists to draw smoothly and witness their creations in stunning detail.

The included Samsung S Pen considerably elevates the drawing experience, offering 4,096 pressure sensitivity levels, minimal latency, and a comfortable grip for extended drawing sessions.

The Galaxy Tab S8+ runs on Android, providing access to a wealth of drawing and design apps through the Google Play Store. This enables artists to work with familiar apps on a powerful device that rivals the iPad in terms of performance.

Related: 10 Largest Android Tablets that are 11 inches or bigger

Keep in mind that the Tab S8+ supports DeX mode, which transforms the tablet into a fully functioning desktop-like experience when connected to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse – further increasing its appeal to professional artists.

One of the key selling points of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is its sleek design, making it an appealing device for creatives who value both form and function.

Additionally, the long-lasting battery promises hours of uninterrupted drawing time, ensuring artists can work on their projects without constantly worrying about recharging. In summary, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ is an excellent iPad alternative for artists who prioritize stunning visuals, impressive performance, and the freedom to run Android apps.

Also see: Best Note-Taking apps for Samsung Galaxy and Pixel Devices (Android tablets)

3. Lenovo Yoga 9i: The Ultimate 2-in-1 Drawing Experience

Lenovo Yoga 9i

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The Lenovo Yoga 9i presents a unique iPad alternative for artists seeking a combination of a laptop and drawing tablet alternative to iPad. As a 2-in-1 convertible, the Yoga 9i can easily switch between laptop and tablet mode, offering versatility and convenience for creatives.

The device’s 14-inch IPS touchscreen display with a 3840 x 2160 resolution ensures precise color representation and crisp visuals for artists during their drawing sessions.

One key feature of the Lenovo Yoga 9i is its compatibility with the Lenovo Active Pen 2 stylus, providing an engaging and natural drawing experience. The Active Pen 2 provides 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing artists to create precise strokes and detailed artwork.

Furthermore, with the Yoga 9i running Windows, artists gain full access to desktop-class drawing and design software, enabling them to work in their preferred creative programs without compromise.

The Lenovo Yoga 9i also stands out for its impressive battery life, lasting up to 18 hours on a single charge. This ensures that artists can work on their projects without interruption and avoid having to recharge frequently during extended drawing sessions. Overall, the Yoga 9i is an excellent iPad alternative for those in search of a Windows-powered 2-in-1, offering a delightful drawing experience combined with the benefits of a fully-featured laptop.

Best alternatives to iPad for drawing (for every budget)

Let’s dive right into the best iPad alternatives for drawing!

1. Surface Go 3

Microsoft Surface Go 3

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As an appealing iPad alternative for drawing enthusiasts, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 balances performance, portability, and affordability. Available in both Intel Pentium and Intel Core i3 configurations, this 10.5-inch tablet delivers excellent performance for creative projects and everyday tasks. The high-resolution PixelSense display, boasting 1,920 x 1,280 pixels, provides an enjoyable drawing experience with vibrant colors and sharp lines.

Also see the 9 Best Surface Pen & Slim Pen Alternatives (Surface Pro Pens)

Although the Surface Pen is not included, it can be purchased separately and comes with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support.

This allows for a natural drawing feel that is similar to the Apple pencil + iPad combo, with the ability to create intricate details and various stroke widths.

As an added bonus, the Surface Go 3 is compatible with Microsoft’s Type Cover, creating a laptop-like experience for users who prefer that setup. In conclusion, the Surface Go 3 is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly drawing tablet that can also serve as a versatile multi-purpose device.

2. XP-Pen Artist 12: Affordable Powerhouse

The XP-Pen Artist 12 is a fantastic option for those who want an affordable drawing tablet without sacrificing performance when selecting an iPad alternative. This 11.6-inch tablet, compatible with both Windows and macOS, offers a sleek and portable lightweight design, making it perfect for artists on the go. The screen resolution of 1920 x 1080 delivers vibrant colors and crisp lines to make your digital artwork stand out.

One advantage of the XP-Pen Artist 12 is its compatibility with popular software programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, CorelDRAW, and Clip Studio Paint. The included P06 battery-free pen provides 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, ensuring precise and natural drawing strokes.

As a side note, the Artist 12 also comes with customizable shortcut buttons and a touch bar, which makes it easier to adjust tools and settings while drawing. For its low price point, the XP-Pen Artist 12 offers impressive performance, rivaling some of the more expensive tablet options on the market.

3. Lenovo Yoga 9i

Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1

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If you’re looking for a multi-purpose device instead of a dedicated drawing tablet, the Lenovo Yoga 9i may be an ideal choice. This convertible laptop offers a stunning touch display that can be transformed into a tablet for all your creative needs. The 4K 14-inch touchscreen, with Dolby Vision support, provides users with an immersive drawing experience complete with vibrant colors and sharp detail.

The Yoga 9i comes equipped with a versatile “garaged” pen that fits snugly into the device for quick and easy access.

With its 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, the pen allows for precise and natural line work, making it perfect for digital artwork and note-taking. Keep in mind that the device’s powerful Intel Core processors and dedicated graphics card provide a smooth and lag-free experience while using demanding drawing software.

Making it an all-in-one solution for those who want a combination of a powerful laptop and an exceptional drawing workstation.

4. Lenovo Yoga Tab 3: Best cheap alternative as an iPad alternative for drawing

Lenovo Yoga Tab 3

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Aspiring digital artists searching for a high-quality drawing tablet without breaking the bank should consider the Lenovo Yoga Tab 3. With their signature hinge design, Lenovo enables users to easily switch between various modes, including ‘Hold’ for an on-the-go drawing experience, ‘Tilt’ for a convenient drawing angle, and ‘Stand’ for hands-free media consumption.

Side note: the Yoga Tab 3 comes with an 8-inch HD display and built-in AnyPen technology, allowing users to utilize any conductive object, such as an ordinary pen or pencil, as a makeshift stylus.

One advantage of this affordable tablet is its impressive battery life, allowing for up to 18 hours of usage on a single charge, ensuring minimal interruptions during creative sessions.

Despite being budget-friendly, the Yoga Tab 3 has a quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage, making it ideal for running various drawing apps compatible with Android devices with relative ease. While the Yoga Tab 3 may not cater to all the needs of professional digital artists, it is a solid entry point for those beginning their creative journey.

5. LG G Pad F2: Budget-friendly Option

LG G Pad 5 10.1-inch

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The LG G Pad F2 offers a competitively priced alternative for digital artists looking for an iPad alternative without sacrificing quality performance. The 8-inch display, powered by Android 7.1.1 Nougat, supports a wide variety of drawing apps available on the Google Play Store. Side note: its octa-core processor and 2GB RAM provide respectable performance for budding artists to work effortlessly on their creations.

This affordable tablet has an ample storage capacity of 16GB built-in, expandable up to 2TB via a microSD card slot, allowing for a vast library of drawings and projects.

The included stylus, though not as advanced as more expensive alternatives, provides a reliable drawing experience with accuracy and precision. The battery life for the LG G Pad F2 is also commendable, lasting more than a full day of casual usage.

6. Fire HD 10 Tablet: Amazon’s Multimedia Device

Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet

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If content consumption and portability are essential to you, then the Fire HD 10 Tablet is a viable option. Amazon’s 10.1-inch tablet offers great value for users seeking a device for both drawing and media consumption. Its compatibility with drawing apps available on the Amazon Appstore makes it suitable for digital artists looking to get started on their creative endeavors.

See the 7 Best Stylus for Amazon Fire HD 8 & 10

The Fire HD 10 Tablet is also the first in Amazon’s lineup to support the AmazonBasics stylus (sold separately), providing a smooth and responsive drawing experience.

Equipped with a quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM, and up to 64GB of storage, the Fire HD 10 Tablet has the right balance of performance and practicality for budding artists on a budget, while also offering an enjoyable multimedia experience.

See how the Amazon Fire HD compares to the Samsung Tablet models

7. Lenovo Tab 4: Stellar Performance on a Budget

Lenovo Tab 4 10 Plus 10.1

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The Lenovo Tab 4 offers incredible value for a drawing tablet, delivering high-quality performance at a budget-friendly price point. Its 10.1-inch display provides users with ample screen real estate, enabling artists to create detailed illustrations with ease. Keep in mind that this tablet is compatible with third-party styluses, such as Wacom’s Bamboo Sketch or Adonit’s Jot Touch.

With a quad-core Snapdragon processor, 2GB of RAM, and up to 32GB of storage (expandable via a microSD slot), the Tab 4 runs Android Nougat seamlessly, ensuring a fluid drawing experience paired with a stylus of your choice.

Moreover, the battery life of the Lenovo Tab 4 is commendable, lasting up to 20 hours on a single charge. As a result, this tablet presents an affordable option for users who value performance, compatibility, and functionality without spending a fortune.

Related: Lenovo Active Pen 2 Not Working? How to fix it

Graphic Tablets: Unconventional iPad Alternatives for Creators

Let’s dive right into the top graphic tablets and pen tablets with a screen that work as iPad alternatives. These are all considered drawing tablets.

Wacom Intuos

Wacom Intuos Small Graphics Drawing Tablet

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The Wacom Intuos series is a dependable and popular choice among digital artists. Offering a smooth drawing experience with an accurate and responsive pen, Wacom Intuos tablets come in various sizes and configurations. One advantage of these devices is their customizable ExpressKeys, which can be assigned to frequently used shortcuts, enhancing the creative workflow.

Also see: What is a Wacom Tablet and how do they work?

The Wacom Intuos Pro is worth considering as it offers additional functionality, such as Bluetooth connectivity, improved pen accuracy, and a larger drawing area. Side note: Although Wacom Intuos tablets require connection to a computer, their integration with popular digital art software makes them a reliable and efficient solution for creators.

Related: 7 Best Wacom Tablets for Photo Editing & Photographers

XP-Pen Artist 15.6

XPPen 15.6

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The XP-Pen Artist 15.6 is another compelling alternative for those seeking a dedicated drawing tablet. With a sleek design, full HD display, and an affordable price, this tablet offers a good balance between cost and functionality. Its responsive styli, with 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity, provide artists with the precision and control needed for intricate work.

One of the top advantages of the XP-Pen Artist 15.6 is its compatibility with multiple operating systems and creative software. It features customizable shortcut keys, enabling users to tailor their workflow and improve efficiency. This tablet is an ideal choice for beginners and intermediate artists who require reliable performance on a budget.

Huion KAMVAS

HUION KAMVAS Pro 16

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The Huion KAMVAS series presents another invaluable option for artists seeking a dedicated drawing tablet. With full laminated screens, precise styli, and customizable shortcuts, these tablets excel at offering a user-friendly experience. The KAMVAS Pro series, in particular, boasts an upgraded battery-free stylus and a higher color gamut compared to its predecessors, making them suitable for professional work.

See the best standalone drawing tablets that don’t need a computer.

Huion KAMVAS tablets come in various sizes and configurations, catering to different preferences and budgets. Providing excellent performance and a wide range of compatible software, these tablets have become a popular choice for digital artists. However, keep in mind that they do require a computer for operation, making them less portable than iPads and other stand-alone tablets.

Wacom One

The Wacom One is an outstanding option as an iPad alternative for drawing. Featuring a 13.3-inch screen with Full HD (1920×1080) resolution and battery-free stylus, this affordable drawing tablet provides a satisfying drawing experience. As it is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Android systems, artists will appreciate its flexibility with various operating platforms.

One advantage of the Wacom One is its support for most major drawing and design applications, such as Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, Corel Painter, and Autodesk Sketchbook, making it a practical choice for a wide range of users. Side note: the stylus with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity allows for highly accurate drawing, while the paper-like texture of the screen helps artists create natural and smooth strokes.

Also see: Sketchbook vs Photoshop: Which Software is Better?

Despite its many benefits, the Wacom One does have some limitations. The screen size may be too small for some users, and the tablet lacks built-in express keys for quick access to shortcuts. However, the overall affordability and performance of the Wacom One make it a solid option for artists looking for a quality drawing tablet without the expense of an iPad.

Xencelabs Medium

The Xencelabs Medium Pen Tablet is another excellent iPad alternative for drawing enthusiasts. Boasting a sleek design and compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Android devices, this tablet offers a comfortable and precise drawing experience with its two battery-free, ergonomically designed pens and Quick Keys remote for added functionality.

The Xencelabs tablet has an impressive 8,192 pressure sensitivity levels, allowing for precise control and detailed artwork. Its customizable Quick Key remote gives artists direct access to frequently used shortcuts and functions, making the drawing experience more efficient. Additionally, the tablet’s support for leading drawing applications, such as Adobe Creative Suite, ensures compatibility with an array of software options.

While the Xencelabs Medium Pen Tablet may not have the same display quality as the iPad Pro or other high-end tablets, its attractive combination of performance and affordability makes it an appealing choice for artists seeking a capable and reasonably priced alternative.

Parblo 10.1” Coast10: Creativity Bundle

The Parblo 10.1” Coast10 offers a competitive package for artists looking for versatility and reliability. With its high-definition 1280×800 IPS display, this 10.1-inch drawing tablet provides users with a vivid and colorful drawing experience. The tablet’s laminated screen reduces parallax issues, making drawing smoother and more precise. Compatible with both macOS and Windows, it also supports popular creative software like ZBrush and Photoshop.

With a battery-free stylus that features 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity, you can create smooth and accurate lines for professional-grade artwork.

The Parblo Coast10 provides an adjustable and customizable stand, which makes it comfortable for artists to find their optimal drawing angle. It’s worth noting that the tablet can be used with a wide range of drawing accessories, adding even more creative possibilities for artists. In summary, the Parblo Coast10 is an excellent option for those who want a comprehensive drawing solution without breaking the bank.

Graphic tablets are specialized devices designed to cater to the needs of artists, providing unique drawing experiences and tailored features. While they may not have the wide range of functionality offered by iPads, they present interesting alternatives for those focused solely on drawing.

Also see 7 Ways to Use Your Phone as a Drawing Tablet (Android & iPhone)

E-ink Devices: A Unique alternative device type to the iPad for drawing and note-taking

E-ink devices offer a unique alternative to iPads for drawing and note-taking. One advantage of E-ink devices is their paper-like display, which reduces eye strain, making them suitable for extended drawing and writing sessions.

Side note: They also consume far less battery than traditional tablets like the iPad, enabling extended use without recharging.

Also see: Best iPads for Note-taking

The Remarkable 2 is one example of an E-ink device tailored towards artists and writers which works to satisfy those who may not want to use a tablet like the iPad. With its palm rejection technology and responsive pen detection, users can enjoy an authentic handwriting and drawing experience.

It supports various file formats and cloud syncing, allowing seamless collaboration with other devices. Onyx Boox is another popular E-ink brand that offers products like the Boox Note Air, which combines a large writing surface with extensive drawing tools and Android app support.

Keep in mind that E-ink devices have some limitations, such as a narrower color range compared to LCD screens, and they might not be as versatile in terms of app support.

2-in-1 Laptop/Tablet Hybrids: Versatile Options for Drawing

2-in-1 laptop/tablet hybrids offer the advantage of combining the power and functionality of a laptop with the portability and touchscreen capabilities of a tablet. These devices, such as the Microsoft Surface Pro and Lenovo Yoga series, provide artists with versatile options for drawing, with access to desktop software alongside touchscreen drawing capabilities.

One of the benefits of 2-in-1 devices is the opportunity to utilize full software versions, unlike the more limited mobile app counterparts for standalone tablets. This flexibility allows artists to access professional features found in desktop applications, improving their overall workflow.

Side note: many 2-in-1 devices offer compatibility with high-performance styluses, further enhancing the drawing experience.

Keep in mind that while these hybrids often come at a higher price point compared to standalone tablets, their multitasking capabilities and access to the full range of creative software justify their cost for many artists who require both portability and functionality in their devices.

Top Stylus Options: From Manufacturer-Specific to Third-Party Choices

In the world of iPad alternatives for drawing, a wide array of styluses is available, including options from both manufacturers and third-party providers.

The Adonit Note Plus, for instance, is designed for iOS and iPadOS devices, offering 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity combined with palm-rejection technology and USB-C charging. The Logitech Crayon, on the other hand, provides a more budget-friendly option that works with the majority of Apple’s iPad lineup, including the iPad Pro.

For Android and Windows devices, options like the Lenovo Active Pen 2 or the Microsoft Surface Slim Pen offer stunning performance with 4,096 pressure sensitivity levels, customizable buttons, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Also see: 7 Best Stylus Pens for Touch Screen Laptops

When choosing a stylus, make sure to consider factors such as compatibility, pressure sensitivity, and the availability of additional features like customizable buttons or tilt sensitivity in order to find the best option for your needs.

Key Features to Look for when buying an iPad alternative for drawing

When selecting an iPad alternative for drawing, it’s important to prioritize essential features that cater to your artistic needs. First, consider the tablet’s screen size and resolution, as these factors directly impact your drawing experience. A large, high-resolution display is more conducive to detailed and immersive artwork.

Another critical aspect to consider is the tablet’s pressure sensitivity levels, which affect the responsiveness and accuracy of the stylus in relation to your strokes. Higher pressure levels generally provide a more natural drawing experience.

Lastly, take into account the tablet’s compatibility with essential art software, as this will determine the functionality and creative capabilities you have access to. In essence, when looking for the perfect iPad alternative, focus on the device’s display, stylus capabilities, and software compatibility to ensure that it meets your artistic requirements.

Don’t Overlook App Requirements and Compatibility

When exploring iPad alternatives for drawing, it is essential to consider the app compatibility and requirements of your desired device. It’s crucial to find a tablet that supports the specific applications or software you’ll use frequently, as not all drawing applications are created equal, and some may not be available on all platforms.

For example, while the popular Procreate app is exclusively available for iOS, many other drawing apps such as Autodesk SketchBook, Medibang Paint, and Adobe Sketch work across various platforms.

Another critical factor to consider is the app developers’ commitment to continuous updates and improvements, as this directly affects your user experience. App features, bug fixes, and overall performance vary from one platform to another, so research the development history and reviews of the apps you’re interested in using. Make sure the software is updated regularly and that the developers address user issues and concerns.

Side note: Besides software compatibility, hardware compatibility should be addressed as well. Keep in mind that some tablets may not be compatible with certain styluses or accessories that are essential for a fluid drawing experience. So, always double-check for compatibility before purchasing any additional equipment or supplies.

Alternative to iPad + Apple Pencil combo

Yes, the charm of the Apple Pencil’s unique gestures is undeniable, but don’t overlook the robust range of stylus pens that step up to the plate to play ball in this digital field.

You’ve got offerings straight from tablet manufacturers themselves and third-party contenders like the Logitech Crayon and Adonit Note +. These gadgets may surprise you with their flair!

Also see: Apple Pencil Compatibility: Which Apple Pencil works with your iPad?

Now, who said the iPad was the only game in town for digital drawing? Dive in, explore, and let your creativity soar with these amazing alternatives!

To see other options and how they compare to the Apple Pencil, see the Zagg Pro vs Apple Pencil vs Adonit Note+ vs Adonit Pixel

Can I use Procreate on an iPad Alternative?

Procreate, a popular drawing application, is exclusively available for iOS devices, such as iPads and iPhones.

While there aren’t any direct alternatives that can run the Procreate app, many other drawing tablets offer their own native applications or support various art apps that deliver similar functionality as Procreate.

See the Best Procreate Alternatives for Android

Android-based tablets, for example, often provide compatibility with a wide range of drawing applications that cater to various skill levels and requirements.

You may want to see: How to get Procreate on Mac

Best Apps to Use Instead of Procreate

If you’re using an iPad alternative for drawing, there are several excellent apps that can fill in the gap left by Procreate:

1. Autodesk SketchBook: Available for both Android and iOS, this powerful drawing app features a sleek interface, customizable brushes, and support for professional-grade tools. It’s widely considered to be an impressive Procreate alternative.
2. Adobe Photoshop Sketch: Compatible with Android and iOS, this drawing app offers a variety of brushes, layers, blending modes, and effects. If you’re an Adobe Creative Cloud user, you’ll enjoy seamless integration with the rest of the Adobe suite.
3. ArtRage: Accessible to both iOS and Android users, ArtRage is designed to simulate real-world painting tools and allows artists to create realistic-looking art. Offering a wide range of tools like oil brushes, palette knives, and watercolors, it’s ideal for those seeking a more traditional art experience.
4. Infinite Painter: Exclusive to Android devices, Infinite Painter boasts advanced layer manipulation, high-resolution canvases, and a highly customizable brush system. This app provides a smooth drawing experience and is perfect for artists looking for a Procreate alternative on Android.

Also see: How to Get Procreate on Windows (+ Top Alternatives)

Best Drawing Apps to Use on an iPad Alternative

While choosing the right drawing app for an iPad alternative, consider your specific needs and requirements. Here are a few popular drawing apps that cater to a wide range of creative processes:

1. MediBang Paint: Featuring over 100 customizable brushes and a cloud-saving option, MediBang Paint is ideal for comic book artists working on an Android or Windows-based device.
2. ibis Paint X: Popular among Android users for its abundant features, this drawing app offers a wide range of brushes, markers, and airbrushes. Its layer functionality and user-friendly interface make it a solid choice for beginners and experts alike.
3. Krita: If you’re using a drawing tablet that connects to your computer, Krita is a highly recommended free and open-source painting program. Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, Krita is designed for illustrators, concept artists, and comic book creators.

Also see: Krita vs Medibang: Which software is better for artists?

Conclusion: Unleashing Your Artistic Potential with iPad Alternatives

While iPads are undoubtedly popular choices for digital artists, exploring iPad alternatives for drawing can reveal equally capable devices that cater to your specific needs without sacrificing much on quality. The key to success lies in understanding your personal preferences and weighing the pros and cons of each device, especially when selecting a tablet with a stylus that isn’t an Apple iPad.

Related: 7 Best Stylus for iPad Air (Drawing, Writing, Notes)

Some of the most notable iPad alternatives worth considering are the Microsoft Surface Pro series, Samsung Galaxy Tab S series, and various models from Huion and Wacom. Gain a thorough understanding of each tablet’s unique advantages and limitations related to app support, display quality, pressure sensitivity, and accessory compatibility. A properly informed decision ensures that your chosen device complements your creative workflow and enhances your digital art experience.

In summary, if you’re a digital artist looking for an alternative to iPads, don’t be afraid to explore the diverse range of tablets available. It’s crucial to compare different devices in terms of app compatibility, user experience, and performance before making a final decision. By doing so, you can find the perfect tool to unleash your artistic potential – without breaking the bank.

iOS is very unique, but let’s be honest, iPads have some drawbacks too. Some folks just want a more wallet-friendly device or feel like trying out another operating system or device that isn’t made by Apple.

Also see: iPad vs Laptop Pros and Cons: Replacing a Laptop with iPad

Good news – there’s loads of options out there with their own pros and cons, so you can find the perfect iPad alternative that works for you. In this blog post, we will explore several top alternatives to Apple’s popular tablets, focusing on their features, specifications, and advantages.

Surface Pro models vs iPad Pro for Drawing & Art (Compared)

Discover the top Alternative devices to iPad for all use cases and find the perfect tablet that suits your needs!

At a glance – Best iPad alternatives

The top 3 best iPad alternatives range from having Android to Windows OS:

Related: How Long do Tablets Last (iPad, Android, Samsung)

Here’s our at a glance list of our top iPad alternatives:

1. Microsoft Surface Pro 9
2. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
3. Amazon Fire HD 7
4. Microsoft Surface Go 3
5. Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5-inch
6. Amazon Fire HD 10
7. Lenovo Tab P12 Pro
8. HP Chromebook x2 11
9. Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2
10. Nokia T10
11. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+
12. OnePlus Pad
13. Xiaomi Pad 5

If you’re looking for an alternative to the iPad specifically for drawing, digital art, or graphic design, then see our separate post on this.

Which operating system is the best alternative to iOS?

When it comes to tablet operating systems, one may consider Android and Windows as viable alternatives to iOS. Each has its unique strengths and weaknesses, which makes choosing the best option dependent on a user’s intended use and priorities.

• Android excels in terms of customizability and offers a wide variety of apps on the Google Play Store. As a less restrictive ecosystem compared to iOS, it allows for greater flexibility in terms of device pairing and general use.
  • However, this may result in differences between app performance and stability from one device to another. Nonetheless, Android tablets such as the Samsung Galaxy series and Lenovo Yoga provide solid choices with robust performance.
• Windows, on the other hand, offers the closest experience to laptop functionality. It runs full desktop software, which makes multitasking and productivity tasks easier to tackle.
• Also, with the widespread adoption of Windows as a desktop operating system, tablets running Windows provide a familiar environment for users. Devices like the Microsoft Surface Pro series and Lenovo Yoga 9i make it possible to harness the power of a laptop in the form of a tablet.

Also see: 10 Largest Android Tablets that are 11 inches or bigger

Best alternative to iPad for drawing & Note-taking

Artists and note-takers desiring an alternative to the iPad might consider the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9, and the Lenovo Yoga 9i. All three devices offer impressive features that cater to creatives and professionals alike.

Also see: 13 Best Tablets for Note-Taking (For Every Budget)

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ features a high-quality 12.4-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth and vibrant canvas for drawing and taking notes. Paired with the included S Pen, users can take advantage of low-latency input, tilt sensitivity, and pressure sensitivity to perform detailed work with ease.

Related: 5 Best iPads for Note-Taking

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 packs a punch with its powerful Intel processors, 120Hz PixelSense display, and compatibility with the Surface Pen. Its exceptional performance and adjustable kickstand make it an exceptional platform for running full Windows applications, giving users not only an excellent drawing experience but also a versatile and portable laptop replacement when coupled with the Surface Type Cover accessory.

We spoke with Ernests Embutnieks of Wolf of Tablet, about the how well the Surface Pro works as an iPad alternative. Here are his insights:

Dove into the Surface Pro 9 over at WolfofTablet.com. It’s got a killer 120Hz PixelSense display, powerful Intel processors, and that Surface Pen compatibility is on point. Plus, slap on the Type Cover and it’s like having a laptop. If you’re eyeing an iPad alternative, this one’s packed with features.

Ernests Embutnieks, Founder @ WolfofTablet

The Lenovo Yoga 9i offers a unique 2-in-1 experience, with its 360-degree hinge design allowing the user to convert it from a laptop to a tablet for drawing and note-taking. The device is optimized for the Lenovo Precision Pen 2 and has a vibrant, high-resolution screen. Its performance, coupled with Lenovo’s unique design and craftsmanship, delivers an effective solution for those seeking an iPad alternative for creative work and productivity.

13 Best iPad Alternatives

Let’s dive right into the best alternative devices to the iPad we’ve tested.

1. Microsoft Surface Pro 9

Microsoft Surface Pro 9

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The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 stands out as a powerful iPad alternative, offering a unique 2-in-1 design, strong performance, and a flexible operating system. This tablet runs on Windows 11, providing a more robust, laptop-like experience, making it ideal for those seeking a tablet that can double as a productivity tool.

The Surface Pro 9 features a 13-inch PixelSense display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals and crisp images.

What we liked: One advantage of the Surface Pro 9 is its compatibility with a range of accessories including the detachable Type Cover keyboard and the Surface Pen. This enables users to effortlessly switch between tablet and laptop modes depending on their needs. The device is also equipped with a range of powerful Intel processors, allowing users to choose the level of performance best suited for their work and everyday tasks.

Side note: The battery life of the Surface Pro 9 can last up to 15 hours, making it adequate for all-day use and an excellent choice for individuals with long working hours. The tablet also boasts multiple connectivity options, such as USB-C and Thunderbolt 4 ports, allowing for seamless data transfer and easy peripheral connections.

2. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra

SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra 14.6-inch

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The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is a powerhouse tablet with an expansive 14.6-inch display, setting it apart from most tablet offerings in the market. Its vibrant, high-resolution screen delivers stunning visuals that outshine even the best iPads.

Under the hood, the Tab S8 Ultra houses the powerful Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3, making it one of the fastest Android tablets available. This tablet is an ideal choice for creative professionals, offering a top-tier experience with its included S Pen and a vast array of compatible apps.

What we liked: One advantage of the Tab S8 Ultra is its premium design and build quality. Crafted from aluminum and featuring slim bezels, the device rivals the iPad Pro in terms of aesthetics.

In addition to its sleek design, the comprehensive set of features, such as impressive battery life, expandable storage options, and 5G connectivity, contribute to the Tab S8 Ultra’s appeal.

Side note: Samsung’s DeX mode allows users to transform their tablet into a highly productive workstation, enabling more effortless multitasking across multiple apps.

Related: Best Note-Taking apps for Samsung Galaxy and Pixel Devices (Android tablets)

When it comes to pricing, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is priced competitively with the iPad Pro. This puts it in the premium category, catering to users seeking a high-performance tablet that meets their work and entertainment needs. Keep in mind, the Tab S8 Ultra runs on Android, making it essential for prospective users to evaluate their preferred ecosystem and app availability.

Also see: Exclusive Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 Leak (Render Reveal)

3. Amazon Fire HD 7 & 8

Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet, 8

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The Amazon Fire 7 (and even the 8 are affordable iPad alternatives. There is also the Fire HD 8 Kids Pro model and more expensive models from Amazon that caters to users who require a reliable tablet that performs well with basic tasks.

Featuring a 7-inch screen and a compact form factor, the Fire HD 7 is perfect for consuming media content, ebooks, and light web browsing. With limited performance capabilities, this tablet is well-suited for users who prioritize affordability and battery life over high-end features.

Also see: Fire Tablet Hacks: How to Jailbreak the Amazon Fire HD Tablet (8 & 10)

One key aspect I liked of the Amazon Fire HD tablets are their tight integration with Amazon’s ecosystem, providing users with quick access to Kindle books, Amazon Prime Video, and even Amazon Alexa.

It should be noted, however, that the Fire HD tablets run on a modified version of Android OS, meaning it lacks access to the Google Play Store and its wide array of apps. Instead, users rely on Amazon’s Appstore, which offers a more limited selection.

Battery life on the Amazon Fire 7 is commendable, reaching up to 7 hours on a single charge. It’s important to keep in mind that the device’s limited 1GB RAM may result in less than optimal multitasking capabilities. However, for an economical and portable tablet experience, the Fire 7 is worth considering.

4. Microsoft Surface Go 3

Microsoft Surface Go 3

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The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is an iPad alternative targeted at users who appreciate a compact tablet that maintains an impressive level of performance. Sporting a 10.5-inch touchscreen display and weighing just 1.2 pounds, the Surface Go 3 caters to those who value portability without sacrificing productivity.

This compact device runs on Windows 11 Home, creating a seamless transition between a tablet and laptop experience.

Related: How Long Does a Microsoft Surface Pro Last? (the truth)

Surface Go 3 offers options between Intel Pentium Gold and Core i3 processors, catering to varying budget and performance preferences.

What I liked: The device also features a built-in stand, making it a great choice for watching videos or working on the go. It’s important to note that the tablet is compatible with Microsoft Surface accessories like the Type Cover and Surface Pen, which are available for purchase separately.

Related: 8 Best Surface Pro Alternatives (With Active Pens)

The battery life of the Surface Go 3 is impressive, lasting up to 11 hours on a single charge. This device is equipped with USB-C and MicroSD card slots, ensuring easy file transfers and connectivity with peripherals. Although the Surface Go 3 may not be as powerful as its bigger sibling, the Surface Pro 9, it undoubtedly satisfies the needs of users seeking a portable and affordable tablet experience.

5. Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.5-inch

SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab A8 10.5

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Samsung’s Galaxy Tab A 10.5-inch is a noteworthy iPad alternative that delivers remarkable features within a budget-friendly price range. A vibrant 10.5-inch display with a 1920×1200 resolution makes this tablet a fantastic option for content consumption and casual gaming. Powered by a Snapdragon 450 processor and 3GB of RAM, the device offers smooth and reliable performance for daily use.

You can also view: Amazon Fire HD vs Samsung Tablet models (A8, A7, & S8)

One of the significant advantages of the Samsung Galaxy Tab A over some other iPad alternatives is its deep integration with the Android ecosystem. Users gain access to the Google Play Store and a wide variety of apps, as well as Google’s productivity suite, including Google Drive and Google Photos. The device also boasts Dolby Atmos-enhanced surround sound and an 8MP rear camera for capturing memories.

Battery life on the Galaxy Tab A 10.5-inch is robust, offering up to 14 hours of usage on a single charge. It should suffice for a full day of browsing, streaming, and moderate app use. The tablet also supports expandable storage via a MicroSD card, allowing users to increase capacity as needed.

6. Amazon Fire HD 10

Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet

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The Amazon Fire HD 10 positions itself as a reliable, mid-range choice for users seeking an iPad alternative that delivers excellent value. With a 10.1-inch Full HD display, 3GB of RAM, and a 2.0GHz octa-core processor, the Fire HD 10 is a dependable tablet for streaming content, browsing the web, and accessing a variety of apps. It includes a 5MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera, ideal for video calls and casual photography.

Related: [Fire Toolbox] Download & install to hack Amazon Fire Tablet

A notable feature of the Amazon Fire HD 10 is its seamless integration with Amazon’s range of services, such as Kindle books, Amazon Prime Video, and Amazon Alexa voice control. Similar to the Fire 7, this tablet runs on a customized version of Android OS and does not include direct access to the Google Play Store, relying instead on Amazon’s Appstore for app downloads.

The battery life on the Fire HD 10 extends up to 12 hours, which should be more than sufficient for a full day of typical use. Users who value integration with Amazon’s ecosystem, a versatile selection of apps, and an affordable price point should strongly consider the Amazon Fire HD 10 as an iPad alternative.

7. Lenovo Tab P12 Pro

Lenovo Tab P12 Pro

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The Lenovo Tab P12 Pro is one of the top contenders in the realm of iPad alternatives. With a stunning 11.5-inch OLED display, it offers crisp visuals, making it ideal for those who consume a lot of visual media.

It’s powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 processor, which, when paired with up to 8GB RAM, makes this tablet highly capable when it comes to multitasking and performance. One advantage of the P12 Pro is the long-lasting 8,600mAh battery, which ensures you can keep working or enjoying your entertainment without constantly worrying about recharging.

Also check out our comparison between the Lenovo ThinkBook vs ThinkPad: What are the differences?

Side note: The Lenovo Tab P12 Pro comes with Android 11, giving you access to a plethora of apps and Google’s convenient suite of software services. It supports the Lenovo Precision Pen 3.0, making this tablet particularly apt for artists and graphic designers who require precision and pressure-sensitive input. If you’re a person who values productivity, the optional detachable keyboard cover is a must-have, transforming the tablet into a lightweight laptop in a jiffy.

Keep in mind that the Lenovo Tab P12 Pro has a sleek metal unibody design, which not only adds to the aesthetic value but also enhances durability. The tablet’s build quality and powerful features undoubtedly make it a solid choice for users desiring an alternative to the iPad.

Related: Lenovo Flex Vs Yoga: Which is better? (Comparison)

8. HP Chromebook x2 11

HP Chromebook x2

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The HP Chromebook x2 11 targets those looking for a 2-in-1 device with the advantages of Chrome OS. It boasts an 11-inch WUXGA+ touchscreen, which is ideal for streaming movies, browsing the web, and multitasking. Under the hood, it houses a powerful Snapdragon 7c Compute SC7180 processor, offering snappy performance and long-lasting battery life.

As a 2-in-1 device, the HP Chromebook x2 11 offers a magnetic full-sized keyboard that easily detaches, allowing you to effortlessly switch between tablet and laptop modes. Moreover, it supports the USITT pen, enabling seamless note-taking, sketching, and drawing. This Chrome OS tablet offers access to the Google Play Store, opening a world of Android app possibilities.

One advantage of the HP Chromebook x2 11 is its built-in antivirus, making it a more secure device that is perfect for those who value their data’s safety. With great performance and versatility, the HP Chromebook x2 11 stands as a remarkable alternative to the iPad.

9. Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2

Lenovo Tabet P11 Pro Gen 2

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The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 is a cost-effective, high-performance iPad alternative that offers premium features without breaking the bank. It has an impressive 11.2-inch IPS display with a 2560 x 1600 resolution, ensuring crisp and sharp visuals. Powered by a Snapdragon 870 processor and up to 8GB RAM, this tablet is perfect for both casual browsing and more demanding tasks.

The P11 Pro Gen 2 has an array of features designed to boost productivity. For instance, it comes with a full-size keyboard cover and a stand, transforming it into a pseudo laptop for times when you need it. The built-in Lenovo Digital Pen is perfect for drawing and taking notes, providing accurate input, with palm rejection technology.

Keep in mind that this tablet supports fast storage options – up to 256GB, and it also has expandable memory options via microSD card for increased capacity. With robust specs, competitive pricing, and a sleek design, the Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 holds its own against the iPad.

10. Nokia T10

The Nokia T10 is an excellent choice for users seeking an iPad alternative focused on portability. This lightweight 8-inch tablet is powered by an efficient MediaTek processor, perfect for everyday tasks like browsing the web and streaming content. It runs on the full version of Android, ensuring a rich app experience.

The compact form factor of the Nokia T10 is one of its biggest advantages, as it makes it easy to carry around and use on the go. The device also has access to Google Play Services, giving you the convenience of integrating the suite of Google apps into your workflow. The tablet’s 5,080mAh battery enables decent usage time without frequent recharging.

For those looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly tablet with a focus on portability, the Nokia T10 is a worthy contender.

11. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+

SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S7+ Plus 12.4”

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As a premium Android tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ excels in offering iPad-like performance and design. The 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display is vibrant and responsive, while a powerful Snapdragon 865+ processor, along with 6GB or 8GB RAM options, ensures you can run tasks smoothly. This tablet is also 5G-ready, giving you faster internet connectivity wherever you are.

The Galaxy Tab S7+ supports the updated S Pen, making it useful for note-taking and sketching, as it offers a latency of just 9ms. It also has an impressive battery life of up to 14 hours, ensuring you can get through a full day’s work without needing to recharge. Furthermore, the tablet has an optional Book Cover Keyboard, providing a laptop-like experience when needed.

The combination of high-quality display, powerful processing, and compatibility with various productivity-enhancing accessories makes the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ a fantastic iPad alternative, especially for those who want to enjoy the Android ecosystem.

12. OnePlus Pad

The OnePlus Pad is an exciting new entry to the tablet market, blending the brand’s signature performance and design at a mid-range price point. This 11.61-inch device is backed by the MediaTek Dimensity 9000 chipset, ensuring smooth performance even during resource-intensive tasks.

The large, responsive display and generous 9510mAh battery make the OnePlus Pad ideal for both productivity and leisure scenarios.

Compared to the iPad Air, the OnePlus Pad is equipped with a few notable features. For instance, the fast-refresh rate LCD panel, Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, and Android 13 provide an immersive multimedia experience. To enhance productivity, OnePlus also offers add-on accessories, such as Keyboard and OnePlus Pen, which can be purchased separately.

One significant advantage of the OnePlus Pad is its lower price point compared to Apple’s mid-range iPads. This makes the device a budget-friendly option for users who seek an efficient and stylish alternative to the iPad. However, it’s essential to consider app support and availability within the Android ecosystem before making a purchase decision.

13. Xiaomi Pad 5

With performance and design that cater to user demands, the Xiaomi Pad 5 emerges as a strong contender in the tablet market.

Sporting an 11-inch, 120Hz refresh rate IPS LCD display, the device’s Snapdragon 860 chipset ensures a seamless experience, whether for work, play, or media consumption. The sizeable 8720mAh battery and impressive camera setup—13-megapixel main and 5-megapixel front-facing cameras—round off the list of key features that make this tablet a worthy iPad alternative.

The Xiaomi Pad 5 offers dedicated accessories, such as the Xiaomi Smart Pen and the Xiaomi Keyboard, which enhance its productivity potential. These additions enable users to explore various tasks, from handwriting notes to typing document drafts. Keep in mind that compatibility with these accessories may vary across regions, and users may need to purchase them separately.

In terms of price, the Xiaomi Pad 5 is significantly more affordable compared to the iPad, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. Availability of the Xiaomi Pad 5 may vary globally, so it’s essential to confirm the device’s availability and regional support before making a decision.

How does iPad compare to other tablets?

The iPad’s premium build quality, unmatched app support, and smooth operating system are core strengths that allow it to stand out in the tablet market.

When compared to other tablets, the iPad benefits from seamless integration with other Apple devices and a user-friendly iPadOS experience. However, it is also crucial to acknowledge that not all users prioritize these factors, and some may find greater value in the way Android, Windows, or ChromeOS tablets cater to their needs.

Also see: Procreate iPad: 7 Best iPads for Procreate

iPad limitations compared to other tablets

Though the iPad is a stellar device renowned for its performance and reliability, there are still some limitations when comparing it to other tablets. For example, iPads often have non-expandable storage, unlike many Android tablets that offer microSD card slots to increase storage capacity.

Additionally, iPads lack standard USB ports, requiring users to purchase additional adapters. Another noteworthy difference is that iPads always come at a premium, limiting the range of devices available for users on strict budgets.

Related: 7 Best Digital Graph Pad Tablets (Custom grids & graphs)

How we rank and chose the best iPad alternatives

When selecting the best iPad alternatives, our primary focus is on identifying tablets that offer high-quality specifications and features at a competitive price point. To objectively evaluate each tablet, we look at its performance, battery life, display quality, and compatibility with accessories like styluses and keyboards. Besides these factors, we also take into account user reviews and insights from hands-on experiences to better gauge each product’s overall user satisfaction, which plays a significant role in determining our rankings.

During our evaluation process, we meticulously analyze all relevant aspects, including hardware and software capabilities, overall value for money, and unique selling points to ensure that we present an eclectic mix of options to suit various user demands. Of course, it’s important to acknowledge that personal preferences and requirements can impact the perceived “best” alternatives. Therefore, our rankings are aimed at guiding potential buyers and providing them the necessary information to make an informed purchase based on their specific needs.

Buyers guide: How to choose an iPad alternative

With an ever-growing market of tablets available, selecting the right iPad alternative can be quite challenging. To make an informed decision, start by examining your priorities—do you require a tablet for primarily gaming, productivity, or multimedia consumption? Subsequently, consider the following factors while evaluating your options:

Operating System: Determine if you prefer Android, Windows, or Chrome OS as each system offers distinct features, functionalities, and app ecosystems.

Processing Power and Storage: Make sure the tablet can handle your desired apps or tasks. Opt for a device with adequate processor power and ample storage capacity based on your needs.

Display Quality and Size: A high-resolution display is particularly essential for media consumption and creative work. Remember that larger screens offer a better viewing experience but can add to the tablet’s weight and overall dimensions.

Battery Life: Choose a tablet that provides an adequate battery life to support your daily activities without necessitating frequent charging.

Also see: Why Your iPad Battery is Draining so Fast (and how to fix it)

Build Quality and Design: Opt for a tablet that boasts durability and quality materials, such as aluminum or premium plastic, to ensure long-lasting usage.

Best alternative to the Apple Pencil for other tablets

Not all tablets can use the Apple Pencil, so it’s essential to identify the most reliable alternatives for other devices. Some of the top options include:

1. Logitech Crayon: Logitech’s Crayon offers excellent compatibility with most iPad models, providing precise drawing and writing capabilities without the need for pairing. Plus, its build quality is both durable and ergonomic for extended use.
2. Adonit Note Plus: As a versatile option, the Adonit Note Plus supports both iPads and Android tablets. Known for its long-lasting battery life, this stylus also features programmable shortcut buttons for seamless use.
3. Wacom Bamboo Sketch: Ideal for artists and designers, the Wacom Bamboo Sketch allows for enhanced pressure sensitivity and control. With compatibility across iPhone, iPad, and Android devices, this option is a brilliant choice for various users.

See how they compare: Zagg Pro vs Apple Pencil vs Adonit Note+ vs Adonit Pixel

Best alternative accessories for iPad alternative tablets

To enhance your tablet experience, numerous accessories are designed to complement a range of tablet models. Some popular options you may want to consider include:

1. Bluetooth Keyboard Cases: Many third-party companies manufacture keyboard cases for iPad alternatives, boosting productivity and ease of use. Logitech K380, for instance, provides a multi-device layout that allows seamless switching between your tablet, phone, or other connected devices.
2. Tablet Stands: Stands can significantly improve your tablet’s ergonomics and viewing angles, making the device more comfortable for extended usage. The Lamicall Tablet Stand is an adjustable, sturdy option that can accommodate various tablets, including Apple, Samsung, and more.
3. Protective Cases: To ensure your tablet remains intact and free from damage, it’s essential to invest in a durable case. Case options like the Fintie Slim Shell Case offer both protection and convenience, as they can transform into multi-angle stands and come in a variety of attractive designs to suit your style.

For some, this could be happening even while charging or after a software update, or even due to a bug (we’ll cover how to determine whether its a faulty device or not).

Related: How to Fix your iPad Mini battery Draining so Quickly

In this blog post, we will address the reasons behind this issue and provide you with effective solutions to restore your iPad’s battery performance.

Also see: Exactly How Long Does an iPad Last? (The Truth)

iPad users who are experiencing poor battery life and want to learn how to fix the problem will benefit as we will cover various methods, settings adjustments, and best practices to ensure that your iPad battery lasts longer. If it’s draining fast all of a sudden, while your charging, or after an update, this is the post for you.

Most Common Reasons for Quick Battery Drain

• There are settings things that make the iPad battery drain fast, such as auto lock, notifications causing brightness to appear constantly overnight, background apps, and more… these are easily fixable
• However, there are serious issues that make your iPad drain quickly all of a sudden, even while you’re charging or draining 30%, 40%, and even 50% overnight sometimes. These issues could be related to updates, bugs or a faulty device.

The iPad Pro, Air, mini, and even the basic iPad has battery health settings you can check to make sure everything is running properly. To check your iPad’s battery health, open the “Settings” app, scroll down to “Battery,” and tap on “Battery Health.”

After updating your iPad software, you may experience increased battery drainage due to new features and functionalities.

Related: How to Fix iPhone Battery Draining Overnight

You have to determine whether its a fault device or its a setting or app, or something else causing the drain.

Settings you can adjust to help

Quick battery drain can result from numerous factors such as excessive app usage, background processes, and suboptimal settings. Some common culprits behind rapid battery drainage are:

1. Background App Refresh: Apps constantly updating their content in the background can consume significant battery power. Turning off Background App Refresh can help reduce battery wear.
2. Location Services: Some apps access your device’s GPS for various purposes, which can be a significant battery draw. Restricting unnecessary location permissions can help conserve battery.
3. Push Notifications: Frequent push notifications from various apps can contribute to battery drain. Limiting notifications for non-essential apps can help improve overall battery life.
4. Display Brightness: A bright screen consumes more power than a dimmer one. Adjusting brightness levels and activating Dark Mode can help save battery life.
5. Connectivity Features: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Cellular Data services, when left active, can lead to battery drain even when not in use. Disabling these connections when not required can help conserve power.

By identifying the specific reasons for battery drain on your iPad, you can apply targeted solutions to mitigate the issue and enhance the overall performance of your device.

Related: Exactly How Long Does an iPad Last? (The Truth)

Why your iPad battery is draining so fast

One of the primary reasons for an iPad battery draining fast could be due to outdated software, excessive use of location services, or power-hungry applications running in the background.

Other factors that could contribute to battery drainage are high screen brightness and constant Wi-Fi or lingering Bluetooth connections. To address these issues, it is essential to keep your device updated and adjust settings to optimize battery life.

iPad Battery draining issues explained

iPad battery draining issues can be categorized into different types, including sudden battery drainage, battery draining fast while charging, or fast battery drain after a software update.

In each case, it’s essential to identify the specific cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to tackle it. Implementing battery-saving techniques and making adjustments to your iPad’s settings can significantly help in preventing these issues.

iPad battery suddenly draining fast (even when you’re not using it)

If your iPad battery is suddenly draining fast, even when the device is idle, there might be background processes (or apps) consuming excess power – this is the most common culprit.

One solution is to disable Background App Refresh for applications that are not essential. To do this, go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh, and toggle off the switch for specific apps.

You should also close all unused browser tabs and review notification settings for each app under Settings > Notifications. Turning off unnecessary notifications can save battery life and prevent overnight drainage.

You might want to restart the iPad back to factory settings and update back to the latest version as a last resort. You can backup to iCloud beforehand if needed.

Also see: 7 Ways to Find lost Airpods when Battery is Dead & Off (All models)

iPad battery draining fast while charging

If your iPad battery is draining fast while charging, there may be a hardware issue with the charging port, cable, or charger. First, inspect the charging components for any damage and use an Apple-certified charger to ensure optimal charge performance.

You can also try charging the iPad in Low Power Mode, conserving battery life by reducing the device’s performance and power consumption. To enable this setting, go to Settings > Battery, and tap the switch next to Low Power Mode.

iPad battery draining fast after update

After updating your iPad software, you may experience increased battery drainage due to new features and functionalities.

In this case, you should first check for any pending app updates since developers frequently update their apps to be compatible with the latest iPadOS versions.

To do this, go to the App Store and tap on your account icon to access the available updates. You might also consider resetting all settings, which can resolve conflicts arising from the update. To perform the reset, navigate to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. Remember to back up your data before proceeding with a reset.

How to fix an iPad battery that is draining quickly

Let’s dive into how to fix an iPad battery that keeps draining super low and you can’t figure out why.

Optimized Battery Charging Feature

One effective solution to extend the life of your iPad battery is to enable the Optimized Battery Charging feature. This tool, available under the Battery Health settings, learns your charging habits and limits the charge to 80% until you need it, reducing battery aging over time.

To activate this feature, go to “Settings,” “Battery,” “Battery Health,” and toggle on the “Optimized Battery Charging” option. By implementing this feature, you not only protect your battery’s lifespan but ultimately save energy and reduce overnight charging.

Utilizing Low Data Mode

Another method to conserve your iPad’s battery life is to enable Low Data Mode. This feature restricts background activities and updates that consume data and power, helping you to minimize battery usage. To activate Low Data Mode, navigate to “Settings” and find the “Mobile data” option.

From there, toggle on Low Data Mode. Remember that this setting will not only save battery life but also limit your cellular data usage, which can be especially helpful if you’re on a limited data plan.

Activating Low Power Mode

The Low Power Mode feature can also help conserve your iPad’s battery life. When enabled, it automatically reduces or disables certain device processes and features not being used, making it ideal for the night time or when your iPad is not in active use.

To turn on Low Power Mode, you can access it through the “Settings” menu or via the “Control Center” under the “Battery” or “Customize Controls” option.

Managing Bluetooth Connections

Ensuring that your Bluetooth connections are properly managed can have a significant impact on your iPad’s battery life.

When not in use, make sure to turn off Bluetooth, as it can consume power even when your device is idle.

This can be especially important during the night or when you’re not using your device for extended periods. To switch off Bluetooth, go to the Settings menu or Control Center and toggle it off.

Also see: IPad Vs Laptop Pros And Cons

Background App Refresh Control

Background App Refresh allows apps to update and refresh their content even when you’re not actively using them, contributing to battery drainage. By managing your Background App Refresh settings effectively, you can prevent unnecessary battery consumption. To adjust these settings, go to “Settings,” “General,” and select “Background App Refresh.”

From there, turn off the feature entirely or disable it for individual apps that consume a significant amount of power.

Closing Browser Tabs

Before going to bed or leaving your iPad unattended for a while, make a habit of closing all open browser tabs (Safari or Chrome). This simple action prevents background processes and updates from draining your battery and contributing to battery degradation over time.

Implementing Airplane Mode

Airplane Mode can help conserve battery life by disabling multiple wireless features on your iPad, such as cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This mode can be particularly helpful when you go to sleep or when you don’t need internet connectivity.

Make sure to toggle on Airplane Mode in the Settings menu or the Control Center when your device is idle.

Managing Wi-Fi and Cellular Data

Turning off Wi-Fi and cellular data when your iPad is not in use can also prevent rapid overnight battery drainage. To manage these connections, access them through the Settings menu or the Control Center and turn them off when not needed.

Customizing Notifications

Unnecessary notifications can contribute to battery drain, so it’s essential to manage them appropriately. To adjust notification settings, go to the “Settings” menu and select “Notifications.” From there, turn off notifications for apps that are not crucial or adjust settings according to your preferences.

Location Services Optimization

Location Services can consume a significant amount of power. To preserve your iPad’s battery life, make sure to optimize these settings so that unnecessary location data isn’t being accessed. Navigate to “Settings,” “Privacy,” and “Location Services” to manage which apps have access to your location information.

Troubleshooting Battery Drain and Updates

If your iPad battery continues to drain when not in use, an update to your device’s software may be necessary.

Make sure your iPad is updated to the latest firmware, and don’t forget to turn on automatic updates to receive regular software enhancements that can help prolong your battery life.

Charging Practices and Preventing Battery Damage

Proper charging practices can help preserve the efficiency of your iPad’s battery. Apple recommends charging your device up to 80% for optimal efficiency, and leaving it plugged in overnight will not cause damage. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your iPad maintains a healthy battery life.

Which iPad seems to drain the quickest

The iPad mini tends to have a quicker battery drain when compared to other iPad models. The primary reason for this can be attributed to its smaller size and capacity battery. See our post on How to Fix your iPad Mini battery Draining so Quickly.

Since the iPad mini has a more compact form factor, it has to accommodate a smaller battery to fit into its limited space. This results in a lower battery capacity compared to its larger counterparts like the iPad Air or iPad Pro.

While the reduced battery size contributes to a lighter and more portable device, it also means that the battery gets depleted faster due to the limited energy storage. Another contributing factor could be that the hardware components in the iPad mini might be optimized more towards performance and size rather than energy efficiency, leading to a faster battery drain.

related: How to use the Flashlight on iPad

How to use Battery Health settings

The check Battery Health setting on your iPad is essential to monitor the performance and overall health of your battery.

It allows you to see the maximum capacity of the battery and whether it operates at peak performance. To access the Battery Health setting:

1. Open the “Settings” app on your iPad.
2. Scroll down and tap on “Battery.”
3. Tap on “Battery Health.”

Here, you can view the maximum capacity of your iPad’s battery, indicating the battery’s potential charge compared to when it was new. A lower percentage represents the aging of the battery and reduced available charge. This section also provides information on whether your iPad runs at peak performance, or if the software throttles it due to issues related to the battery.

Related: Where is the calculator app on iPad?

Why is my iPad battery draining fast after iOS 16 update?

After updating to iOS 16, many users have reported quicker battery drain on their iPads. The increased battery drain could be due to new features or system optimizations that require more power. Furthermore, the update process itself can often be resource-intensive and may temporarily cause battery drainage.

Is charging the iPad battery overnight bad for the battery?

Contrary to popular belief, charging the iPad battery overnight does not significantly harm the battery. Modern lithium-ion batteries found in iPads have protective features that prevent overcharging.

Once the battery reaches its maximum capacity, the charging process automatically stops, and the power is only used to maintain the charge level.

Ideally, keeping your iPad charged between 20% and 80% is considered healthy, but occasional overnight charging should not cause notable damage.

Does auto brightness drain your iPads battery?

Auto brightness is a feature designed to adjust screen brightness settings to suit the ambient light and potentially save battery life.

The iPad uses sensors to detect the surrounding light, and the device automatically modifies the brightness to an appropriate level. In bright environments, auto brightness increases the screen’s backlight intensity, while it reduces brightness in darker surroundings.

Contrary to popular belief, using auto brightness can actually help conserve the iPad’s battery life in the long run.

This is especially true when you utilize your device in environments with varying lighting situations, reducing the need for manually adjusting brightness settings and ensuring that the screen does not remain brighter than necessary.

How long should the iPad battery last?

On average, an iPad battery should provide up to 10 hours of usage per charge, making it suitable for daily use in various settings. This battery life is dependent on several factors such as display brightness, application usage, and power management settings.

Besides usage per charge, the iPad battery is designed to last for approximately 1000 charge cycles, which is equivalent to 3 years of regular usage for most users.

Also see: E-ink Tablet vs iPad as the e-ink tablet battery lasts significantly longer due to e-paper technology compared to a lithium battery the iPad has.

During this time, the battery’s efficiency may decline gradually, eventually necessitating a replacement. Keep in mind that proper charging habits and maintaining optimized settings can help extend the battery’s lifespan even beyond the typical usage period.

Often video consumption will drain the battery.

Related: 14 Best Tablets for Watching Youtube & Videos

When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, even after trying numerous troubleshooting tips, the iPad battery may still drain rapidly. In such cases, it is advisable to seek professional help to assess whether the battery requires replacement or if there’s an underlying hardware issue causing the problem.

Apple Support and Warranty

Before trying to fix your iPad battery issues yourself, first check if your iPad is still covered under Apple’s warranty or the AppleCare+ protection plan. If it is, contact Apple Support to inquire about their battery replacement service.

They may be able to diagnose the issue remotely and offer an appropriate solution. If necessary, they can facilitate battery replacement or other hardware repairs. One advantage of using Apple’s battery service is that it guarantees professional and safe handling of your device.

Related: How to Cancel AppleCare+ (Get a Refund)

Replacing the Battery

When your iPad is no longer under warranty or AppleCare+, you can still get the battery replaced by a trusted technician or repair shop. There are many third-party repair centers that specialize in Apple devices and can help you replace your iPad battery as efficiently and safely as possible. Make sure to do your research and choose a reputable service, as improper handling of the iPad can lead to further complications.

How to make your iPad battery last longer while you use it

When using an iPad Air, iPad Pro, or iPad Mini, it is important to optimize the device’s settings to ensure the battery lasts longer, especially when streaming videos or playing online games. Five key steps can be taken to preserve battery life on an iPad.

Manage location services

Consider managing location services to make the battery last longer. Access the settings, scroll down to “Privacy,” and tap “Location Services.” Proceed to tap on “System Services.” Disable location access for applications that don’t require location information, or deactivate location services entirely for optimal battery preservation.

Some of these we had mentioned earlier, but lets dive in.

Adjust the notifications settings.

Try adjusting the notifications settings. Head to “Settings,” scroll down, and tap on “Notifications.” Determine which applications don’t require notifications and disable them individually. Restricting unnecessary notifications requires less power from the battery.

Regulate background app refresh settings

You can regulate background app refresh settings. In “Settings”, click on “General,” then select “Background App Refresh.” Reevaluate which applications need to run continuously in the background and disable those that are not essential. Limiting background app refresh can save battery life.

Use the “Dark Mode” feature on the iPad

Consider using the “Dark Mode” feature on the iPad. For users partial to bright themes, switching to dark mode can improve battery life. Navigate to “Settings,” scroll down to “Display & Brightness,” and then select “Dark.” This modification reduces battery consumption for better longevity.

Lastly, if the aforementioned steps have not improved battery life to the desired extent, enable “Low Power Mode.” Locate “Settings,” scroll down to “Battery,” and then activate the “Low Power Mode” option. This setting helps the battery last significantly longer than usual.

Importance of Regularly Monitoring iPad Battery Health

To prevent battery-related issues, it’s crucial to regularly monitor your iPad’s battery health. This can be done through the iPad’s settings. Replace the battery if its maximum capacity falls below 80% or shows signs of hindering performance.

When to Consider Replacing Your iPad Battery

If your iPad battery continues to drain fast despite troubleshooting, consider battery replacement in the following scenarios:

1. Your battery health drops below 80% of maximum capacity
2. Battery swelling or deformities are visible
3. The device shuts down unexpectedly despite having sufficient battery life

Top Apps and Features That Cause Battery Drain on iPads

Some apps and features are known to consume more battery than others. Social media apps, games with high-quality graphics, video streaming apps, and constant use of GPS/location-based services are common battery-draining culprits.

Related: How Long do Tablets Last (iPad, Android, Samsung)

The Impact of iPadOS Updates on Battery Life

Apple regularly releases iPadOS updates to fix bugs and enhance overall user experience. However, sometimes new updates can introduce issues that cause battery draining. In such scenarios, it is essential to monitor battery performance after an update and follow suitable troubleshooting steps.

This will help artists, students, and professionals who use iPads and are interested in acquiring an Apple Pencil or are just simply unsure of the compatibility amongst Apple Pencil models 1 and 2 with different iPad models…

Also see: Apple Pencil 1 vs 2- Key Differences Explained

We will explore the compatibility of the 1st and 2nd generation Apple Pencils with various iPad models. By the end of this post, you’ll gain clarity about which Apple Pencil model (1 or 2) works on which iPad model.

Related: Apple Pencil vs Stylus: Worth Paying An Extra $70?

Key Takeaways

• The basic iPad models (take a glance for clarity on this), 9th and 10th generations, support the 1st generation Apple Pencil.
• All other iPad models (mini, Air, and Pro) will support the 2nd generation Apple Pencil if they are not an older iPad model (see the compatibility chart to be sure)
• Skip to this section to check which iPad model you have so you can use the chart properly and see which Apple Pencil is compatible (1 or 2).
• Users have successfully paired a 1st generation Apple Pencil with a new iPad Pro using the LightBlue app; which isn’t supposed to be compatible, but it makes it possible for apple pencil models that aren’t compatible with iPad models to work.
• You can use other Stylus pens like the Logitech Crayon or Adonit Note plus, which rival the Apple Pencil and have a noticeably lower price point.

Also see: What Stylus Pen Do Artists Use To Draw On IPad?

Different iPad models require specific Apple Pencil generations due to unique pairing, charging methods, and features. Always check compatibility lists before purchasing to ensure the Apple Pencil works with your iPad model.

Apple Pencil 2 is compatible with the following iPads models:

1. iPad Pro 11-inch (1st to 4th generation): Ranging from 2018 to the present, all four generations of the 11-inch iPad Pro can take full advantage of the Apple Pencil 2’s functionalities.
2. iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd to 6th generation): Similarly, all four generations of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, from 2018 onwards, are compatible with Apple Pencil 2.
3. iPad Air (4th and 5th generation): Released in 2020 and 2022, the iPad Air 4th and 5th generation bring compatibility with the Apple Pencil 2.
4. iPad Mini (6th generation): The iPad Mini 6, launched in 2021, is also compatible with the Apple Pencil 2, providing optimal note-taking and drawing capabilities.

The Apple Pencil 2, which launched in 2018, offers several improvements over its predecessor in terms of design and functionality. This advanced stylus features a sleek, more modern look and includes wireless charging, as well as additional touch functions. To benefit from these features, it’s vital to verify that your iPad is compatible with the Apple Pencil 2. Here are the iPad models that’ll support this accessory:

Keep in mind, the Apple Pencil isn’t the only stylus you can use for your iPad, see our post on: Zagg Pro vs Apple Pencil vs Adonit Note+ vs Adonit Pixel

Apple Pencil 1 is compatible with the following iPad models:

1. iPad (6th to 10th generation): Spanning from 2018 to 2022, these five models support the original Apple Pencil.
2. iPad Air (3rd generation): Users with a 3rd generation iPad Air (2019) can also benefit from the first-generation Apple Pencil.
3. iPad Mini (5th generation): With its 2019 release, the iPad Mini 5 brought Apple Pencil 1 compatibility to a smaller form-factor iPad.
4. iPad Pro 9.7-inch and 10.5-inch: Owners of the 2016, 9.7-inch model and 2017, 10.5-inch iPad Pro can also utilize Apple Pencil 1.
5. iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st and 2nd generation): Those with 2015 or 2017 iPad Pro 12.9-inch models can take advantage of the original Apple Pencil features.

The first-generation Apple Pencil, released in 2015, introduced a groundbreaking level of precision to using an iPad. While not as advanced as the Apple Pencil 2, it remains an excellent choice for those with iPads compatible with this version (source)

These iPad models won’t work with the Apple Pencil at all:

Certain iPad models, particularly older versions, do not support Apple Pencil compatibility. If you own one of the following iPad models, note that neither the Apple Pencil 1 nor Apple Pencil 2 will function with your device:

1. iPad (1st to 5th generation)
2. iPad Air (1st and 2nd generation)
3. iPad Mini (1st to 4th generation)
4. iPad Pro 9.7 (2016) – Apple Pencil 2 specifically
5. iPad Pro 10.5 (2017) – Apple Pencil 2 specifically

How to check which iPad model you have so you can determine which Apple Pencil model to get

To determine your iPad’s specific model and find the compatible Apple Pencil version, follow these straightforward steps:

1. Open the “Settings” app on your iPad.
2. Tap “General” and then select “About.”
3. In the “About” section, locate the “Model Name” and “Model Number.”

Once you have this information, you can refer back to the compatibility lists provided earlier in this article to select the appropriate Apple Pencil for your iPad model.

What features am I missing out on if the Apple Pencil 2 doesn’t work with my iPad model?

If your iPad model is only compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil, you may be curious about the features you’re missing due to Apple Pencil 2 incompatibility. Some of these features include:

1. Wireless charging: Apple Pencil 2 offers a hassle-free experience by charging wirelessly when magnetically attached to the side of your iPad.
2. Double-tap switch: The Apple Pencil 2 includes a double-tap gesture on the side, allowing you to switch between tools with ease.
3. Advanced design: Apple Pencil 2 sports a more refined design with a flat edge, ensuring a better grip and preventing it from rolling off surfaces.

While these additional features are undoubtedly appealing, the first-generation Apple Pencil still provides a fantastic drawing and note-taking experience for compatible iPad models.

Alternatives to Apple Pencil

While the Apple Pencil is a popular and powerful accessory for the iPad, there are alternative styluses available in the market that can provide similar functionality. If, for some reason, the Apple Pencil is not an ideal choice for you, it is worth considering these options for a seamless iPad experience. In this section, we will explore two alternatives: the Logitech Crayon and the Adonit Note Plus.

Which model iPads does the Logitech Crayon work with?

The Logitech Crayon is a reliable and affordable alternative to the Apple Pencil. It supports a wide range of iPad models, including some that do not work with the Apple Pencil. The Crayon is compatible with the following iPad models:

• iPad (6th gen) and later
• iPad Air (3rd gen) and later
• iPad Mini (5th gen) and later
• iPad Pro 11-inch (1st gen) and later
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd gen) and later

This compatibility list makes the Logitech Crayon an attractive choice for users who own an iPad that is not compatible with the Apple Pencil but still requires a high-quality stylus for note-taking or precision touch tasks.

Which model iPads does the Adonit Note Plus work with?

Another alternative worth considering is the Adonit Note Plus. This stylus offers advanced features, such as tilt support, pressure sensitivity, and programmable shortcut buttons, making it a compelling choice for those seeking to enhance their iPad experience. The Adonit Note Plus is compatible with a variety of iPad models, including some that are not supported by the Apple Pencil:

• iPad (6th gen) and later
• iPad Air (3rd gen) and later
• iPad Mini (5th gen) and later
• iPad Pro 11-inch (1st gen) and later
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd gen) and later

Both the Logitech Crayon and the Adonit Note Plus provide diverse options for users seeking a stylus that supports their specific iPad model, while offering an enjoyable drawing and writing experience on the device.

Do you need an Adapter to use the Apple Pencil with the 10th gen iPad?

The 10th generation iPad, released in 2022, is a unique case because it features a USB-C port instead of the typical Lightning port found in most compatible iPad models. This change in design requires users to purchase an additional accessory in order to use the first-generation Apple Pencil with the 10th-gen iPad.

Yes, you do need an adapter to use the Apple Pencil with the 8th &, 10th gen iPad (basic iPad). This adapter is called the USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter and is priced at around $9.00.

It allows you to connect the first-generation Apple Pencil to the 10th generation iPad for seamless pairing and charging. Before purchasing the adapter, make sure it is explicitly labeled ‘USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter’ to ensure compatibility.

Also see: iPad vs graphics and pen tablets (drawing tablets)

This small accessory is essential for users who need the Apple Pencil’s functionality on the latest iPad model, eliminating the need to purchase a separate Apple Pencil 2 or any other compatible stylus.

Which is better for drawing digital art or graphic design: Apple Pencil 1 or 2?

When choosing between the Apple Pencil 1 and 2 for digital art or graphic design, one should consider the various features that could impact performance and ease of use.

The second-generation Apple Pencil has certain advantages over its predecessor, such as magnetic wireless charging and pairing, double-tap functionality for quick tool-switching, and a slightly improved design. This makes it more convenient to use and offers greater flexibility when working on intricate designs.

Also see: 7 Best Stylus for Procreate (iPad Air/Pro)

However, it is important to note that both the first and second-generation Apple Pencils offer an outstanding drawing experience, with precise pressure sensitivity and tilt support. While there might be slight variations in terms of latency, both perform exceptionally well and provide artists with a comfortable and smooth drawing experience.

Combining the essential features and performance, the Apple Pencil 2 is considered a better option, but one must also take into account which iPad model they are using, as compatibility varies for both styluses.

Which is best for note taking apps on iPad: The Apple Pencil 1 or 2?

Similar to the assessment for drawing digital art and graphic design, choosing between the first and second-generation Apple Pencils comes down to compatible iPad models, individual preferences, and each stylus’s unique features.

Both Apple Pencil models excel at note-taking thanks to their pressure sensitivity and seamless integrations with a wide array of note-taking apps available on the App Store, such as Notability and Goodnotes.

However, the Apple Pencil 2 has a few notable advantages for note-taking convenience. The magnetic charging and pairing system eliminate the need for cables or ports, and the double-tap feature allows you to quickly switch between tools such as the pen, eraser, or highlighter, increasing productivity and efficiency.

Related: OneNote vs GoodNotes for iPad: Which is better for Note-taking, digital planning, and School

That being said, if your iPad model is only compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil, it will still serve you well for note-taking purposes.

Care and Maintenance of Your Apple Pencil

Proper care and maintenance are necessary to prolong the life and ensure optimal performance of your Apple Pencil. This includes regular cleaning of the stylus’s exterior using a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth. Be cautious not to get any moisture into the charging port or other openings.

Regarding the Apple Pencil tip, it is important to inspect it for wear and tear regularly. Replace the tip when it becomes worn, as this can negatively affect the stylus’s performance and potentially harm the iPad screen.

To replace the tip, gently unscrew it in a counterclockwise direction and replace it with a new one, tightening it securely.

Also see: PaperLike vs PaperFeel: Are they Comparable? (Drawing & Note-Taking)

It is also recommended to use a screen protector on your iPad to prevent scratches from the Apple Pencil, as well as ensuring proper palm rejection settings within the note-taking or drawing app you are using.

Advanced Features of the Apple Pencil

The Apple Pencil’s advanced features make it an exceptional tool for artists, professionals, and students alike. One key feature that stands out is the pressure sensitivity, which enables users to create different effects and line thicknesses simply by adjusting the pressure applied on the iPad screen.

This allows for a more natural and intuitive drawing experience, akin to using traditional pencils or brushes.

Tilt and Pressure Support

The Apple Pencil supports both tilt and pressure sensitivity, giving users a highly realistical drawing experience. The tilt sensitivity enables users to create shading effects as they would with a traditional pencil by altering the angle of the stylus on the screen.

This, combined with the pressure support, provides an impressive level of control and flexibility in creating artwork or writing notes on the iPad.

Latency

Latency refers to the slight delay that occurs between the time a user makes contact with the stylus on the screen and the time it takes for the corresponding action to be visible on the screen. Apple Pencils are designed with low latency in mind to ensure a smooth, responsive, and natural experience.

While the Apple Pencil 2 has marginally improved latency compared to its predecessor, both models generally perform with minimal noticeable lag, allowing users to focus on their work without any disruptions.

What should I do if my Apple Pencil isn’t compatible with my iPad?

If you discover that your Apple Pencil isn’t compatible with your iPad, don’t worry; there are several alternatives and solutions available. Firstly, verify your iPad and Apple Pencil model to ensure compatibility. If you find that they are indeed incompatible, you can explore alternative stylus options, sell or trade-in your current devices, or purchase a new iPad and Apple Pencil that match.

One advantage of looking into alternative stylus options is that there are plenty of third-party products designed for iPad compatibility.

Brands such as Logitech and Adonit offer styluses that cater to various features and price ranges. For instance, the Logitech Crayon is a popular alternative, offering solid performance and compatibility with a wide range of iPad models.

Keep in mind that if you choose to sell or trade-in your current devices, you could use the proceeds to cover part or all of the cost for a new, compatible iPad and Apple Pencil. Upgrading your tablet may not only solve your compatibility issue but also provide additional features and improved performance.

See: Apple Pencil 2 vs Surface Pen: Which is Better for Drawing & Note Taking?

Side note: Make sure to research device trade-in and sales platforms like Gazelle, Swappa, or even Apple’s official trade-in program for the best deals.

Lastly, if you decide to buy a new iPad, ensure that you match the correct Apple Pencil generation to your tablet model. Not only will this make certain that you have a seamless experience, but it will also guarantee that you maximize the potential of both devices for note-taking, illustrating, or other creative tasks. Remember to refer to compatibility lists and guides we provided in this post to confirm that your new iPad and Apple Pencil will work together.

In this blog post, we will explore the features, performance, and user experience of both OneNote and GoodNotes to determine which app is better suited for various tasks, such as schoolwork, note-taking, and digital planning.

We also reviewed OneNote and GoodNotes separately in full detail:

• OneNote for iPad: Full Review and How it’s different from Desktop)
• GoodNotes Review: Is it Worth it for advanced Note-Taking

If you’re an individuals who relies on digital note-taking apps for their daily needs, you’ll enjoy how we tested both GoodNotes and OneNote and compare them side bye side. Throughout this post, we’ll review, compare, give the pros and cons, and much more.

We also compared GoodNotes to other note-taking apps:

• Notability vs GoodNotes: The Ultimate Note-Taking App Comparison
• Goodnotes vs NoteLedge: Which works best for Note-taking?
• Between NoteShelf and GoodNotes: Which Excels for School & Digital Planning?

Key Takeaways

GoodNotes is often regarded as the better option for note-taking, particularly for users within the Apple ecosystem.

GoodNotes excels in organized notes, printing, handwritten note-taking, PDF markup, and journaling. Many users value GoodNotes for its handwriting and search functionality, as well as ease in importing PDFs.

On the other hand, OneNote is the preferred choice for users who require seamless syncing between iPad and Windows devices.

Despite the advantages of both GoodNotes and OneNote, some users prefer alternative options like Notability, Noteshelf, Nebo, Noteful, and other top note taking apps for iPad (we reviewed 25 of them).

One Note is also favored for typing, easy image import, and organization. OneNote is also chosen for its running notes and scratchpad functionality.

We have some advanced techniques for you: 7 Ways to Take Better Notes on iPad 

Note-taking on iPad with Notability is considered by some to be superior to both GoodNotes and OneNote (official site). Some users view OneNote as counterproductive and poorly designed, opting for alternative apps instead.

In summary, the ideal note-taking app varies depending on the specific needs and preferences of each user, with GoodNotes, OneNote, and other alternatives all offering different strengths and weaknesses.

• OneNote is available for free and works seamlessly across various platforms, making it ideal for those who need to sync their planner between devices and integrating with other microsoft products (primary benefit)
• GoodNotes wins as far as audio recording with note-taking on iPad. While OneNotes has this features, it’s kind of limited – it doesn’t work simultaneously with typing as it records audio like GoodNotes does on iPad.
• OneNote for iPad has limitations compared to its desktop counterpart, such as advanced PDF handling and multimedia file support.
• GoodNotes offers a unique hyperlink system for easy navigation when using digital planners and is ideal for digital sketching and making diagrams
• Both OneNote and GoodNotes provide impressive note-taking experiences, with GoodNotes being favored for its handwriting recognition capabilities.
• When deciding between the two, it is essential to consider factors such as device compatibility, feature requirements, and personal preferences.

Personal Experience: Using OneNote and GoodNotes on an iPad

As a tech author, I have had the opportunity to extensively test both OneNote and GoodNotes on my iPad for various note-taking, planning, and writing purposes.

I personally found OneNote excellent for organizing and structuring my thoughts, particularly as the app’s structure resembles a virtual binder with multiple sections. Its compatibility with Microsoft Office programs also made it easier to stay productive when switching between devices or platforms

On the other hand, GoodNotes appealed to me when I needed a more artistic and creative approach to my notes.

I also really liked that Goodnotes has templates for almost anything you need.

The app’s smooth handwriting experience, coupled with a wide variety of writing tools and customization options, made my notes visually pleasing and easy to digest. I also appreciated the advanced search feature in GoodNotes that made locating my handwritten notes quick and straightforward.

Why we are comparing OneNote vs GoodNotes for iPad?

In this digital age, efficient note-taking is essential for students, professionals, and digital planners. OneNote and GoodNotes are two of the leading note-taking apps for iPad users, offering unique features and tools that cater to various needs.

Both apps are highly rated for their performance and overall user experience, but they possess distinct differences in terms of design, functionality, and core features.

As we dive into this comparison, we will uncover the optimal choice for your specific circumstances, helping you make an informed decision for your digital note-taking endeavors.

Similarities and Differences between OneNote and GoodNotes

While both OneNote and GoodNotes share a common goal of facilitating digital note-taking, there are several crucial differences between them. OneNote, being a Microsoft product, works across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. This cross-platform compatibility allows for easy synchronization and access to your notes from various devices.

On the other hand, GoodNotes is specifically designed for iPads and iOS devices (and it does work for Mac), thus appealing to users within the Apple ecosystem. The app excels in areas like handwriting recognition and smooth navigation.

Both apps incorporate features, such as text formatting, multimedia integration, and exporting options. However, OneNote offers a more extensive array of tools, making it a powerful option for diverse user requirements.

GoodNotes is preferred by users looking for a straightforward app that excels in handwritten note-taking and intuitive organization.

Related: 15 Best GoodNotes alternatives for Note-Taking (Free & Paid)

Long-Term Use: The Durability of Notes in OneNote vs GoodNotes

In terms of long-term use and the durability of notes, both apps are reliable in storing and managing your data. OneNote uses Microsoft OneDrive for cloud storage, ensuring that your notes are synced and backed up across all devices.

This gives you peace of mind knowing that your notes will always be accessible, even if you switch devices or platforms. However, the free version of OneDrive provides 5GB of storage, which may prove insufficient for heavy users.

GoodNotes, on the other hand, stores your notes locally on your iPad, ensuring that they remain secure and accessible even without an internet connection.

The app also supports cloud storage through integration with iCloud and other third-party services like Google Drive and Dropbox. This enables you to keep multiple backup copies of your notes and access them from different devices if needed.

Also see: 26 Best Note Taking Apps for iPad (Free & Paid)

How smooth does OneNote work on iPad?

OneNote is a Microsoft product, which tends to work more smoothly on Windows-based devices, so it raises the question of how well does OneNote work on an Apple product like the iPad Pro, Air or Mini?

Surprisingly, OneNote performs relatively well on iPads despite being a Microsoft product. iPad users can expect a smooth and enjoyable note-taking experience, as the app benefits from Apple’s hardware capabilities and optimized software performance.

As iPads are known for their responsive touchscreens and powerful processors, OneNote runs efficiently and effectively on these devices.

One advantage of using OneNote on iPad is the seamless integration with other Microsoft Office apps like Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. You can also enjoy robust synchronization capabilities, ensuring that your notes are accessible across various platforms and devices.

Pros and Cons of OneNote vs GoodNotes for iPad

When evaluating the pros and cons of OneNote and GoodNotes for iPad, consider the features, user needs, and overall app experience.

OneNote Pros:

• Seamless integration with Microsoft Office apps (primary benefit)
• Cross-platform compatibility
• Extensive organizational and formatting options
• Continuous synchronization across devices

OneNote Cons:

• Limited handwriting recognition on iPad
• Requires Microsoft OneDrive for cloud storage (limited free storage)

GoodNotes Pros:

• Superior handwriting recognition on iPad (see How to Use GoodNotes Handwriting to Text Feature)
• Superior for sketching, and drawing graphs or diagrams for notes
• Streamlined organization and navigation
• Cloud storage flexibility (iCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox)
• Designed for optimal performance on iPads

GoodNotes Cons:

• Available on Apple devices (though, GoodNotes has expanded it’s compatibility)
• Lacks advanced features compared to OneNote

This comparison aims to empower you with a comprehensive understanding of each app’s pros and cons, ultimately helping you choose the most suitable note-taking solution for your specific needs and preferences.

Detailed Comparison: OneNote vs GoodNotes for iPad

In this comprehensive comparison, we aim to assess OneNote and GoodNotes, two popular note-taking applications designed for iPad users. Our focus will be on determining which app is better suited for school, note-taking, and digital planning purposes.

Note Organization: OneNote vs GoodNotes

OneNote is designed to be highly organized, allowing users to create multiple notebooks with separate sections containing individual pages. This hierarchical structure is efficient in categorizing and keeping your notes organized. OneNote’s organization systems enable users to locate specific information quickly and easily. Moreover, OneNote supports not only text input but also the inclusion of multimedia elements such as images, videos, and voice recordings.

GoodNotes, on the other hand, offers a more streamlined note organization experience. Organizing your notes in GoodNotes is similar to using multiple physical notebooks, making it an intuitively organized digital substitute.

Related: 15 Best e-ink Tablets for Reading, Note Taking, and Annotation

While it lacks the extensive subfolder organization found in OneNote, GoodNotes excels in providing a polished and user-friendly navigation experience through hyperlinks and bookmarks.

Document Management & Creation

Document creation and management are critical aspects of note-taking apps. Both OneNote and GoodNotes support file imports from various sources, including cloud storage services.

OneNote allows users to import files, both images and PDFs, as separate worksheets or attachments. Moreover, OneNote’s feature-rich PDF annotation capabilities make it a powerful tool for working with complex documents.

GoodNotes, on the other hand, excels when it comes to importing, annotating, and exporting organized notes in various file formats.

Side Note: Can an iPad Replace a Laptop for a College Student?

While importing PDFs in GoodNotes resembles working with physical documents, it lacks some of OneNote’s additional PDF handling features. However, GoodNotes supports multiple file formats, providing users with a versatile platform for managing their documents.

Writing Tools: Comparing OneNote and GoodNotes

When it comes to writing tools in both apps, there are some key differences to consider. OneNote offers an array of writing instruments, including pens, highlighters, and customizable color, size, and style options. The app supports both handwriting and typed text input, giving users the flexibility to choose their preferred method.

GoodNotes is often praised for its superior handwriting recognition, making it a popular choice for users accustomed to handwritten note-taking. GoodNotes includes various pen and highlighter tools, along with numerous color choices and customizable pen sizes.

However, while GoodNotes delivers a fluid writing experience, it may not provide as many customization options as OneNote.

Assessing Digital Planning Capabilities

Effective digital planning requires seamless integration with calendars, task lists, and reminders. OneNote and GoodNotes both offer varying levels of digital planning capabilities.

OneNote is well-suited for digital planning through its integration with Outlook and other Microsoft applications. This integration allows users to manage their calendars, appointments, and tasks in one centralized platform, fostering efficient organization and time management.

GoodNotes is primarily designed for note-taking rather than comprehensive digital planning. However, it does excel in organizing your notes and promoting productivity by providing a visually pleasing user interface. While GoodNotes may not have in-built digital planning capabilities, users can employ specialized templates or hyperlinked digital planners to create a more structured workflow and planning system.

In summary, both OneNote and GoodNotes offer a range of features and capabilities suited for different user preferences, making the decision between the two dependent on individual requirements and priorities.

Pricing: Affordability and Value

When it comes to pricing, both OneNote and GoodNotes offer different pricing models for users. OneNote is a free application available across various platforms, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals without any associated cost.

The free app offers a comprehensive range of features that cater to most note-taking tasks, and storing notes in OneDrive comes with 5GB of free storage. For those who require additional cloud storage, OneDrive plans are available at various price points. Side note: If you’re a student, you may have access to a free Office 365 Education plan, which includes 1TB of storage.

On the other hand, GoodNotes requires a one-time purchase which grants access to all of the app’s features, including future updates. It’s worth mentioning that the price point is not too expensive and offers value for money, especially for those who invest heavily in digital planning and note-taking.

However, keep in mind that GoodNotes is available exclusively within the Apple ecosystem and may necessitate additional costs for iCloud storage if more space is required.

User Interface (Ease of Use and Learning Curve)

The OneNote user interface is organized in a very intuitive manner, letting users quickly sort their notes into notebooks, sections, and pages. The toolbar is designed to be easily accessible and transparent, grouping together categories like drawing tools, pens, highlighters, and more. Navigation through notebooks is seamless, making it possible for users to jump between sections efficiently.

GoodNotes, in contrast, adopts a more visual approach, allowing users to scroll through their pages and organize notes into folders and various subfolders. This interface permits even quicker navigation through your digital planner or notebook. The user experience within GoodNotes is further enhanced by its hyperlink integration when operating in viewing mode.

Handwriting Recognition Capabilities

In terms of handwriting recognition, there are notable differences between OneNote and GoodNotes. While OneNote’s handwriting recognition has evolved significantly over the years, it still lacks the same level of accuracy achieved by GoodNotes. One advantage of GoodNotes is that it uses advanced algorithms to distinguish between writing and other random marks, ensuring a more precise recognition outcome.

Both applications allow for effortless switching between handwriting, typing, and stylus input, catering to a variety of user preferences and styles. However, when it comes to natural handwriting recognition, GoodNotes emerges as the superior product.

See: 7 Best Stylus for iPad Air (Drawing, Writing, Notes)

Collaboration – Integration with Other Apps and Devices

OneNote offers extensive collaboration capabilities by integrating with other Microsoft apps and services, making it a preferred choice by many users worldwide. The synchronization between devices like iPads, desktops, tablets, and even mobile phones is seamless and promotes productivity by giving users access to their notes from anywhere. Collaboration is made easier as OneNote works on various operating systems.

Also see: 13 Best Tablets for Note-Taking

However, GoodNotes is not far behind. While it doesn’t offer the same range of integration options that OneNote possesses, it still allows users to import and export documents and notes in different formats that can be used with other platforms. The limitation arises from being available exclusively within the Apple ecosystem, which may restrict broader collaboration possibilities.

Cloud and Backup Options (Safety and Accessibility)

Backup and cloud storage options are crucial components to consider when choosing a digital note-taking app. OneNote, by default, backs up notes to Microsoft’s OneDrive cloud storage, which offers users 5GB of free storage. One advantage of this integration is the ability to access notes from various devices, promoting productivity and efficiency.

GoodNotes primarily relies on iCloud storage for backup purposes. The basic iCloud storage plan provides 5GB of free space, though paid upgrades are available for additional storage.

GoodNotes users who work extensively within the Apple ecosystem can take solace in knowing their notes are securely backed up, easily accessible, and synchronized across their devices.

To summarize, both OneNote and GoodNotes provide solid backup solutions for their users, ensuring that crucial notes are safe and accessible when needed.

User Experiences

User Testimonials and Case Studies

Many users have shared their experiences with both OneNote and GoodNotes, highlighting the apps’ strengths and weaknesses.

Some students prefer OneNote’s seamless integration with other Microsoft applications, allowing them to access and edit notes across different devices. For example, they could start taking notes on their iPad during lectures and later access them on their laptops for more in-depth revisions.

Professionals also appreciate OneNote’s infinite canvas and ease of collaboration for brainstorming, mind mapping and sharing notes with colleagues.

On the other hand, GoodNotes has become a favorite for those who prioritize handwriting recognition and drawing capabilities.

Users mention how the app’s intuitive interface encourages creativity and makes their notes look visually appealing. The app’s user-friendly organization also simplifies finding and recalling information when needed.

Also see: 12 Best Digital Bullet Journal Apps on iPad (and How to Use Them)

Beyond the Comparison: Further Exploration

Exploring Advanced Features of OneNote

When diving deeper into OneNote’s capabilities, we uncover several advanced features that elevate the app’s note-taking potential, making it a powerful tool for students and professionals. One such feature is the integration with Microsoft Lens, which allows users to capture documents, whiteboards, or images and import them directly into the app.

This feature is particularly helpful when taking pictures of lecture slides or handouts, as the OCR functionality extracts text from the image, making it searchable and editable.

Another useful feature is OneNote’s ability to record audio and sync it with your written notes. This is incredibly beneficial for those attending meetings or lectures, as they can later listen to the audio recording and identify any gaps or uncertainties in their notes. Additionally, users can take advantage of OneNote’s comprehensive list of keyboard shortcuts to accelerate their note-taking process and increase efficiency.

Exploring Advanced Features of GoodNotes

Similarly, GoodNotes offers a range of advanced features that make it a valuable addition to a digital note-taker’s arsenal. A standout feature of GoodNotes is its built-in Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology, which effectively converts handwritten notes into searchable text. This significantly eases information retrieval when reviewing notes or searching for specific topics within the app.

Another advantage of GoodNotes is the ease of exporting and sharing notes. Users can export notes in various formats, such as PDF or image files, and share them with others through email or cloud services. This flexibility simplifies collaboration and information exchange with classmates or colleagues.

Lastly, GoodNotes offers robust annotation tools, allowing users to mark up PDFs, images, and other file formats seamlessly. This feature is particularly beneficial for students or professionals working with complex documents that require detailed annotations for enhanced comprehension.

Determining Which App Has Better Note-Taking Features

Choosing the right note-taking app for school, digital planning, and general use can be challenging. To determine which application—OneNote or GoodNotes—has better note-taking features, it’s essential to consider handwriting tools, organizational capabilities, and platform availability.

OneNote shines in providing an infinite canvas for note-taking, compatibility across multiple platforms (Windows, Android, and iOS), and seamless integration with other Microsoft applications such as Word and PowerPoint.

On the other hand, GoodNotes offers the advantage of superior handwriting recognition skills, user-friendly organization features, and tailored compatibility with the Apple ecosystem, making it a favorite among Apple users. When comparing these two apps, it’s vital to weigh their advantages, bearing in mind the specific use cases and personal preferences.

How to Download and Get Started with OneNote/GoodNotes

To get started with OneNote or GoodNotes, visit the respective app stores for your device. OneNote is available across Windows, Android, and iOS devices, while GoodNotes is exclusive to Apple products. Once downloaded, sign in to OneNote with your Microsoft account or create a new one if necessary.

In contrast, a one-time purchase of $8.99 is required for GoodNotes, ensuring access to all its features. After installation, explore and familiarize yourself with each app’s tools, such as creating notebooks, sections, or pages, and customizing page styles, pen types, and highlighters. As you experiment with each app, consider your note-taking habits and comfort level when working with them to aid your decision-making process.

Final Thoughts on OneNote and GoodNotes for iPad

Deciding between OneNote and GoodNotes for iPad depends on individual requirements, personal preferences, and the devices in use. If you work concurrently with an iPad and a Windows computer, OneNote offers seamless compatibility and synchronization between devices.

However, if you are exclusively within the Apple ecosystem, GoodNotes proves to be an excellent choice for its user-friendly interface and superior handwriting recognition.

Ultimately, both applications have various features and capabilities, catering to different user needs. The decision lies in evaluating which app best caters to your specific needs and preferences.

You can also see: 11 Best Digital NotePads.

Other Note-Taking Apps, Next to Notability and Others

Besides OneNote and GoodNotes, other viable note-taking alternatives include Notability, Apple Notes, and Evernote.

These apps each provide a distinct set of features to fulfill different user requirements. Notability, for example, is well-regarded for its clean interface and easy-to-use collaboration features.

Apple Notes integrates seamlessly with other Apple applications and offers a basic yet efficient note-taking experience.

…Evernote is renowned for its universal compatibility across multiple platforms and powerful search capabilities – As with OneNote and GoodNotes, the choice comes down to which app best supports your specific needs, preferences, and devices.

Similarities and Differences between OneNote and GoodNotes

While both OneNote and GoodNotes facilitate the creation of digital notes, their specific attributes and capabilities differ. One major similarity is their expansive toolsets offering options for handwriting, typing, drawing, highlighting, and annotating text.

However, OneNote provides seamless multi-device synchronization, suitable for Windows and Apple users, and an array of advanced features like password-protected sections, templates, and recording capabilities.

In contrast, GoodNotes offers superior handwriting recognition, better suited for Apple device users, and practical organization features that simplify exporting and printing notes.

Differences in platform compatibility, user interface, and specific features form the crux of the decision between these two robust and powerful note-taking applications.

Our in-depth review explores various features including page customization, handwriting tools, text manipulation, and integration with other apps.

See: 26 Best Note Taking Apps for iPad (Free & Paid)

By the end of this article, you will gain a complete understanding of what to expect from OneNote on iPad, how the iOS version differs from the desktop version, and in what ways it provides an ideal digital note-taking experience.

The Pros and cons of OneNote for iPad

OneNote’s OCR functionality does convert handwriting to text on iPad through the use of microsoft lens – and it only offers 5GB of free storage in OneDrive, which may prove insufficient for heavy users – but if your a student there’s a free version that allows for 1TB storage.

7 Ways to Take Better Notes on iPad (Students & Professionals)

One advantage of OneNote for iPad (iOS) is that it is a free app available across various platforms, making it accessible to a wide range of users. The app is capable of handling most note-taking tasks and tasks such as text formatting, list creation, and even basic PDF annotations.

However, there are some drawbacks to using OneNote for iPad. The app lacks certain features that its desktop counterpart has, such as more advanced PDF handling, multimedia file support, and simultaneous audio recording while writing notes.

The handwriting experience in OneNote has improved significantly over the years, providing users with an ideal note-taking experience, even on an iPad.

Related: 12 Best Digital Bullet Journal Apps on iPad (and How to Use Them)

Should you use OneNote on iPad for primary note-taking use?

OneNote for iPad is a strong candidate for primary note-taking due to its compatibility across different devices and operating systems. The seamless synchronization between devices allows users to access their notes from anywhere, ensuring productivity isn’t hindered.

The versatile handwriting and typing tools, along with the extensive customization options, make OneNote a user-friendly choice for individuals with different note-taking habits.

Related: PaperLike vs PaperFeel: Are they Comparable? (Drawing & Note-Taking) – Some users may use one of these , especially if you’re taking handwritten notes or sketching via OneNote on iPad

However, if your primary note-taking includes complex mathematical equations or detailed audio recordings, you may want to explore other note-taking apps that cater specifically to those needs. Nevertheless, for general note-taking purposes, OneNote for iPad remains an impressive and reliable option.

At a Glance: OneNote Features

OneNote for iPad offers a plethora of features that cater to various user needs. Its infinite canvas allows users to jot down notes without worrying about running out of space, making it perfect for brainstorming sessions and mind mapping activities.

One advantage of using OneNote is the availability of different paper styles and colors, enabling you to personalize your note-taking experience.

In terms of organization, the app has a simple structure comprising notebooks, sections, and pages, ensuring that your notes are well-organized and easily accessible.

The ability to password-protect specific sections ensures confidential information remains secure.

In-Depth Review of OneNote for iPad

OneNote for iPad offers a streamlined and customizable user interface, with a layout that is easy to navigate. Tools such as pens, highlighters, and erasers respond efficiently to the Apple Pencil, providing a smooth handwriting experience.

The typing options, including text presets, allow the user to maintain a consistent style throughout the notes.

Zooming capabilities enhance the user experience, permitting up to 200% zoom, which helps maintain handwriting consistency across all devices. The app also offers substantial support for importing content from other sources, like attaching files, creating web links, and embedding videos.

User Interface and User Experience ion iPad is slightly different from OneNote Desktop version

OneNote for iPad provides an intuitive user interface that caters to the needs of various users. Usability is enhanced by the easy organization of notebooks, sections, and pages, with the option to add titles, tags, and colors for easy identification.

The toolbar is designed to be easily accessible, featuring categories like drawing, pens, highlighters, and more.

The user experience is further enriched by inserting images, files, and links directly into your notes, allowing for better content comprehension and organization.

However, there is room for improvement in optimizing the user interface for complex tasks, such as opening large PDFs or handling heavy media files.

Performance on Different iPad Models

OneNote for iPad performs well on various iPad models, including the iPad Mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro.

The app’s performance benefits from the device’s hardware capabilities, providing a fluid note-taking experience regardless of the model used.

Also see: 5 Best iPads for Note-Taking (Hint: Screen size matters)

Compared to iPad version of the app, using a Microsoft Surface Go with OneNote was a bit more smooth. Perhaps this is because Microsoft is the creator of this device as well as the app, so it runs exceedingly well.. You may want to see the top Surface Pen & Slim Pen Alternatives in this case and compare the Surface Pro models vs iPad Pro.

The only time you’d need to consider the type of iPad model is if you have an apple pencil compatibility concern, which you may want to take handwritten notes.

Related: Apple Pencil 2 vs Surface Pen: Which is Better for Drawing & Note Taking?

Bear in mind that older models may not provide the same degree of smoothness, particularly when dealing with heavy multimedia files or large documents.

To get the most out of OneNote on an iPad, it is recommended to keep the software up-to-date to ensure compatibility and consistency.

Newer models, like the iPad Pro, offer the advantage of a larger screen, higher processing power, and the latest features, ensuring an optimal experience when using OneNote for primary note-taking purposes.

Limited OneNote features for iPad

OneNote for iPad offers a variety of features but is not as powerful as the desktop version. Some limitations include the absence of a dedicated Recycle Bin for deleted pages and audio recording capabilities.

• Keep in mind that the Researcher tool is only available to users with a Microsoft 365 subscription, which may result in less smooth research integration.

One note users should also be aware that there can be inconsistencies across different platforms, so the iPad version might not always match up perfectly to Windows or other operating systems.

Despite these limitations, the app still delivers an impressive note-taking experience suitable for many users. It is important to evaluate personal requirements and decide whether the iPad version of OneNote is enough to meet individual needs.

How do you create a new notebook in OneNote for iPad?

Creating a new notebook in OneNote for iPad is a simple process. Tap the plus (+) notebook icon located at the bottom-left corner of the app. Following this, you can assign a name to the notebook and choose one of the 16 available colors to differentiate it from others.

The app even displays the location of the notebook storage, depending on the Microsoft account you are using. This makes organization efficient, allowing you to quickly create Sections and Pages within each notebook as needed.

What are the page customization options in OneNote for iPad?

OneNote for iPad offers users substantial control over page customization. When creating a new notebook, select the preferred Paper Style via the ‘View’ tab, which offers plain, ruled, or grid lines options, along with three line-spacing intervals and 16-page color alternatives.

OneNote does not impose a page size limit, as the pages themselves are infinite, providing ample room for note-taking.

Though the initial page setup is simple, remember that OneNote has no option of changing page dimensions after creation. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure your desired page size is determined before you begin taking notes.

What are OneNote’s pen and highlighter tools like?

OneNote for iPad provides a wide range of pen and highlighter tools, aimed at enhancing the handwriting experience. Five fixed pen sizes are available in various colors, including glitter shades.

The app’s improved handwriting capabilities make it a top performer, even when compared to paid alternatives like Apple Notes.

In addition to pens, OneNote offers an easy-to-use highlighter tool that doesn’t obscure text even after multiple layers are applied.

Also see: 7 Best Stylus for iPad Air (Drawing, Writing, Notes)

The highlighter accommodates five fixed sizes and various colors. OneNote also provides a customizable Toolbar, where you can save your favorite pens and highlighters for swift access during note-taking.

Pricing: Is OneNote Free for iPad?

One advantage of OneNote for iPad is that the application is absolutely free to download and use, but it does have a few features that Microsoft limits.

While other note-taking apps might charge a subscription fee or offer limited free tiers, OneNote provides a comprehensive set of features and capabilities without any cost to the user.

This makes it an attractive option for many who want to test the application and benefit from its features without committing financially.

Side note: The app comes with 5GB of storage on your OneDrive account, which is more than sufficient for most users. However, if you require additional storage for larger files or more extensive note-taking, you might consider upgrading your OneDrive plan.

OneDrive plans come at various price points and storage sizes depending on your needs, and upgrading gives you more space for note storage and file attachments.

It is important to note that all features included in the free OneNote app are available without needing a Microsoft 365 subscription. This ensures that even those without a subscription to Microsoft’s suite of services can take advantage of OneNote’s functionality. A separate Microsoft 365 subscription offers additional features, such as the Researcher, but the free version of OneNote for iPad remains a competitive option.

How does OneNote’s text tool compare to other note-taking apps?

When comparing OneNote’s text tool capabilities with those of other note-taking applications, it becomes apparent that OneNote boasts a wide range of features that rival even paid competitors. OneNote’s rich formatting options are powerful, allowing users to bold, italicize, underline, and strike out text, as well as choose from a selection of font styles, sizes, and colors.

The application also lets you create numbered and unnumbered lists, produce interactive checklists, insert hyperlinks, and even add a variety of pre-made or custom tags.

The incorporation of alignment, preset Font Styles for headings, and other professional features aligns with OneNote’s compatibility with Microsoft Word, making it an excellent choice for users who need advanced formatting options in their note-taking app.

Also see: 13 Best Tablets for Note-Taking (For Every Budget)

One key advantage of OneNote’s text tool over other apps is the seamless integration with the handwriting tool. This enables you to incorporate both handwritten and text-based notes within the same document. The app’s flexibility to use typed text, handwritten input, or a mix of both allows users to work in a manner that best suits their needs and preferences.

Can you use an Apple Pencil or a Stylus on OneNote for iPad?

Yes, OneNote for iPad is compatible with both the Apple Pencil and other compatible stylus devices. This compatibility allows users to quickly and easily switch between handwriting and typing mode within a single note-taking app. The integration of stylus input significantly enhances the versatility and productivity of OneNote, catering to various writing preferences and styles.

Keep in mind that the Apple Pencil offers a highly responsive handwriting experience that pairs well with OneNote. The latency and pressure sensitivity result in smooth, natural strokes that closely mimic writing on paper. Additionally, the Apple Pencil has built-in tilt detection, which seamlessly adjusts your ink output based on the angle of your pen. This emulates a true-to-life drawing experience not always available in other stylus options.

How to use the Apple Pencil with OneNote on iPad

To use the Apple Pencil with OneNote on iPad, simply open the app and begin writing or drawing directly on the screen. The application will automatically recognize the Apple Pencil input and allow for smooth, natural handwriting and drawing. If you need to switch to typing input, tap on the screen with a finger instead of the Apple Pencil.

While using the Apple Pencil, OneNote’s handwriting tools, such as pens and highlighters, will be available for customization. You can access these tools by tapping the “Draw” tab within the top toolbar. This will reveal a selection of pen sizes, colors, and styles for you to choose from.

It’s essential to make sure that your Apple Pencil is connected and charged for optimal performance with OneNote. To do this, ensure that Bluetooth is turned on within your iPad settings and that the Apple Pencil is properly paired with your device. With the Apple Pencil and OneNote’s collaborative capabilities, taking notes digitally becomes an efficient and enjoyable experience.

What stylus pens are compatible with OneNote on iPad?

One aspect to consider when using OneNote on the iPad is choosing the right stylus. A compatible stylus pen significantly contributes to a comfortable and accurate note-taking experience. The iPad is designed to work seamlessly with the Apple Pencil, which is available in two different versions: the 1st Generation and the 2nd Generation. Both pencils are highly responsive and work well with OneNote, offering precise, smooth, and latency-free writing.

Side note: other third-party stylus options are available for use with OneNote on iPad, including the Logitech Crayon, Adonit Note, and Wacom Bamboo Fineline. These alternatives might vary in terms of their functionality, comfort, and price. Keep in mind, though, that the optimal performance in OneNote is typically achieved through using the Apple Pencil. The compatibility of a stylus plays a significant role in enhancing the note-taking experience on OneNote, so it’s crucial to invest in one that perfectly suits your iPad model.

Comparing OneNote with Other Note-taking Apps (like GoodNotes)

When discussing note-taking apps, it’s worth comparing OneNote to its challenger GoodNotes. While OneNote excels with its expansive canvas and robust organization features, GoodNotes gains its competitive edge from its user interface, customizable features, and note-taking tools.

One advantage of GoodNotes over OneNote is that it enables users to create and customize different notebooks and templates according to their usage, which saves time and enhances organization. GoodNotes also allows users to export entire notebooks easily as PDF files, while OneNote struggles with exporting notes and complex formatting.

Also see: Tutorial: How to Use GoodNotes to Take Great Notes (Beginners & Pros)

Moreover, GoodNotes offers extensive Apple Pencil support, resulting in a smoother and more natural handwriting experience.

In contrast, OneNote’s strengths lie in its integration with Microsoft ecosystem, real-time collaboration capabilities, and infinite canvas that permits greater flexibility when it comes to organizing information.

Each app has its unique features, so it ultimately depends on an individual’s priorities and requirements when selecting the best note-taking app. There are many alternatives to GoodNotes for Note-Taking that you can check out, such as Notability or Noteshelf.

Integrating OneNote with Other Apps and Services

OneNote’s integration capabilities with other apps and services, particularly within the Microsoft ecosystem, provide a seamless and efficient workflow for users. OneNote syncs with Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, enabling users to take notes and annotate within the documents without leaving their existing workspace.

Related: 12 Best Digital Bullet Journal Apps on iPad (and How to Use Them)

For those using Microsoft Teams, OneNote offers integration, allowing users to access and collaborate on notebooks from within the platform. Moreover, OneNote’s capability to import meeting details from Outlook helps streamline the note-taking process during meetings, saving time and ensuring all relevant information is included.

Additionally, OneNote’s integration with third-party apps like Zapier and IFTTT enables productivity workflow automation between different platforms and tools.

Security and Privacy in OneNote

When it comes to security and privacy, OneNote offers various protection measures to ensure the safety of user data. Notebooks can be stored on Microsoft’s OneDrive, which is encrypted at rest and during transmission.

One advantage of using OneNote is its ability to password-protect sections of notes. This feature can keep sensitive information secure from unintended access. It is important to remember, however, that there is no password recovery option; so users should carefully choose their passwords and store them safely.

While Microsoft adheres to strict security protocols and privacy policies, it is essential for users to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions, such as enabling two-factor authentication, regularly updating passwords, and configuring app access permissions.

User Reviews and Testimonials

User reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the experience of utilizing OneNote. Many users appreciate the app’s cross-platform compatibility, enabling them to access their notes on various devices. OneNote’s integration with the Microsoft ecosystem and the free storage on OneDrive are also highly praised.

However, some users mention inconsistencies and limitations in OneNote’s functionalities across different platforms. Challenges in exporting notes and collaborating with other users are also reported.

Despite minor inconveniences, OneNote consistently receives positive feedback for its robust organization features, infinite canvas, and seamless note-taking experience on the iPad. As with any app, user experience varies, but the majority of testimonials lean towards an overall satisfied and impressed user base.

Tips and Tricks for Using OneNote

One notable trick for maximizing productivity in OneNote is the incorporation of shortcuts. For instance, using two fingers to pinch zoom in or out on your notes can help you navigate between pages easily. Another useful shortcut involves double-tapping on your Apple Pencil to switch between drawing and erasing. This is a significant time-saver considering the app’s vast drawing and handwriting capabilities.

Side note: When indexing content within OneNote, the built-in search function becomes an invaluable tool. It not only searches for text within typed notes but also scans handwritten notes and even text featured in images. To make your notes more searchable, use distinctive headings and semantically relevant keywords within note content.

One advantage of using OneNote on an iPad is the ability to add custom shortcuts to the home screen. Simply tap the three dots in the top right corner of the screen and choose “Add to Home Screen.” This feature allows direct access to frequently used pages, making your note-taking experience more efficient.

OneNote Offline Usage on iPad

One of the hallmarks of OneNote is its offline functionality on the iPad. Users can create, edit, and access notes even without an active internet connection. All changes made to the notes while offline will sync seamlessly once the user reconnects to the internet, ensuring that no data is lost.

Keep in mind that to enjoy this offline functionality, make sure to download the required notebooks before going offline. To accomplish this, tap the three dots in the top right corner of a notebook cover, and select “Make Available Offline.” As a result, your notes can be accessed anytime and anywhere, without being hindered by connectivity issues.

One potential downside, however, is that collaboration and real-time synchronization are only available when an internet connection is established. Consequently, offline usage may not be recommended for group projects or collaborative efforts that necessitate real-time updates.

Backup and Sync Capabilities

Backup and synchronization are crucial aspects of any digital note-taking application, and OneNote is no exception. The app automatically syncs your notes across all devices connected via your Microsoft account, making sure that you always have access to the latest versions of your notes.

The app relies on OneDrive, Microsoft’s cloud storage solution, for backup and sync purposes. Upon signing in with your Microsoft account, OneNote provides a default storage allocation of 5 GB for free. However, if your note-taking demands exceed this capacity, you can opt for additional storage by purchasing a Microsoft 365 subscription or a separate OneDrive plan.

It is essential to mention that OneNote does not provide a dedicated auto-backup feature for exporting notes to other cloud storage platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox. Nevertheless, manual exporting of notes in PDF format can be achieved through the Share feature within the app.

What tags and interactive checklists are available in OneNote?

OneNote offers a generous assortment of 27 predefined tags to help categorize and prioritize information within your notes. Examples of available tags include important, critical, idea, project, and question. While OneNote does not support customization of tags, the existing collection covers a wide array of use-cases, enhancing note organization and accessibility.

Interactive checklists are another useful feature in OneNote, assisting users in tracking tasks and to-dos across various notes.

Users can simply tap the checkbox icon in the toolbar to insert a checklist item. While an automatic strikeout function upon task completion is absent, tasks can be manually marked as done by tapping the checkboxes, providing a visual representation of progress.

How does OneNote handle adding items such as tables, photos, files, and links to notes?

OneNote excels at handling the insertion of various elements like tables, photos, files, and links into notes. Users can effortlessly add tables by selecting the desired number of rows and columns, complete with flexible resizing and formatting options.

For adding photos, users can either insert images from their device’s gallery or utilize the camera feature within the app to capture images directly. While photo editing options are somewhat limited, users can still resize, crop, and rotate images as needed.

File attachments up to 100 MB can be inserted into OneNote. Users can preview contents, rename files, cut, copy, and delete attachments with ease. However, larger files such as videos may necessitate splitting into smaller segments due to size constraints.

Lastly, links to web pages can be included within notes. Users can either paste URLs directly or opt for display names to maintain an organized note structure. Keep in mind that while external links are supported, OneNote currently does not offer internal linking capabilities between pages.

What research tools does OneNote offer for users with a Microsoft 365 subscription?

OneNote for iPad offers a unique feature called Researcher to those who have a Microsoft 365 subscription.

With Researcher, users can search for information on the internet without leaving the app. This feature organizes search results into books, journals, and websites to help users quickly locate relevant sources.

Keep in mind, however, that Researcher only supports a few languages, including English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, and Japanese.

An advantage of using Researcher is the ability to extract citations from journals directly into your notes, saving you time and effort when gathering sources for your projects. One setback, though, is that this feature might not work seamlessly for everyone since the citation extraction is not always perfect, especially for complex research. As a result, some users might find themselves in need of additional tools to cover their research requirements.

Does OneNote for iPad support OCR and PDF reading capabilities?

OneNote for iPad includes optical character recognition (OCR) which allows its users to search handwritten notes seamlessly. Despite not providing the direct conversion of handwriting to text, OneNote implements an Immersive Reader feature that reads these notes out loud, ensuring that content remains accessible.

PDF reading in OneNote demands a unique approach where documents must be embedded directly into the notes for annotation. Though this method restricts hyperlink support and efficient navigation through large documents, the infinite canvas provides ample space for annotating around the PDF.

Do note that opening large PDFs (greater than 100 MB) might pose an issue for OneNote, potentially deterring users with extensive PDF annotation needs.

Also see: 10 Best Tablets for Reading PDF files

How does OneNote handle exporting and sharing notes?

The collaboration aspect of OneNote enables users to export notes as a PDF and share them with others, whether by inviting them through email or generating a shared link to the notebook.

This allows document owners to control editing permissions and decide if others can alter the content within the notes.

While exporting and sharing notes is smooth with Outlook, be cautious when sharing individual pages, as handwritten notes often export as large and difficult-to-read PDFs due to the infinite canvas.

To counter this, users should consider creating smaller pages for sharing purposes. Keep in mind that OneNote presently lacks support for exporting entire sections or notebooks.

What feedback do people have about using OneNote on iPad for primary note-taking?

Many users have praised OneNote on iPad for its wide range of functionalities, including handwriting tools, text editing, and page customization. The app’s free status and compatibility across multiple operating systems have garnered appreciation, making it popular for primary note-taking.

Some users, however, have reported setbacks with audio recording, file attachments limited to 100 MB, and inconsistencies between different platforms. Despite these concerns, most users appreciate OneNote’s depth of functionality for a free note-taking app, recognizing the value it provides in keeping their work organized.

How does OneNote on iPad integrate with other Microsoft products, like Outlook or Teams?

OneNote on iPad exhibits notable integration with other Microsoft products, particularly Outlook and Teams. Users can import meeting details from Outlook directly into OneNote, allowing quick access to essential information without having to refer back to the email or calendar event.

For those using Microsoft Teams, OneNote fits well into the collaborative environment provided by the platform. Teams users can discuss, create, and edit their OneNote notebooks in real-time. This integration enables seamless communication and sharing of ideas within the workspace, making it an essential tool for those relying on Microsoft’s ecosystem for professional or personal use.

Can OneNote on iPad be synced across devices for easy access and sharing?

Yes, OneNote on iPad is designed to effortlessly sync across multiple devices, thanks to its integration with Microsoft’s OneDrive cloud storage system. By syncing your notes with OneDrive, you can access and update them from any device using your Microsoft account. This feature comes in handy when you need to seamlessly transition from one device to another, such as working on your iPad during a meeting and later referring to the notes on your laptop.

One advantage of this cross-platform synchronization is the ease of collaboration it offers. OneNote allows users to share entire notebooks or individual sections with colleagues or team members. With editing permissions granted, collaborators can work on notes simultaneously, making real-time updates, annotations, and comments. This facilitates a team’s ability to brainstorm, share ideas, and work together on various projects.

Side note: It is important to be aware of the 5GB free storage limit for OneDrive accounts, especially when working with large files and attachments. If you find yourself needing more storage, several subscription plans are available to increase the amount of cloud storage you have access to, which, in turn, allows for even better note syncing across devices… though this could cost $70 for the year (or $7 a month).

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on OneNote for iPad

Even on iPad, OneNote excels as a free, multi-platform note-taking app with customization, integration, and organization features, but could benefit from enhancements in audio recording, math equations, and even some photo editing capabilities.

It’s synchronization and integration with other Microsoft applications make it an invaluable tool for increased productivity and organization. The flexibility and customizability offered by OneNote contribute to its appeal as a go-to app for both personal and professional contexts.

Among its many strengths, the app’s support for efficient collaboration and multi-device synchronization set it apart from competitors.

The ability to easily share notes and work together with colleagues in real-time significantly enhances the overall user experience. It is also worth noting that OneNote’s continuous improvements and updates demonstrate Microsoft’s dedication to maintaining an edge in the realm of digital note-taking.

So… whether you are a student, professional, or simply looking for a capable note-taking app to help you stay organized, OneNote for iPad could be the ideal solution.

Its balance of functionality, flexibility, and ease of use make it a powerful tool for enhancing productivity and catering to a variety of note-taking needs. Give OneNote a try on iPad and experience its potential to transform your note-taking experience for the better.

Related: iPhone Font Generator: Make Stylish Text Messages

This post caters to both tech-savvy individuals and those new to digital planning, with step-by-step instructions on how to import and add new fonts, the best font apps to import custom, unique fonts… and even some font examples for GoodNotes.

Also see: Digital planner templates for GoodNotes.

Key Takeaways

GoodNotes utilizes whatever Native or custom fonts you have on your iPad…

That being said, you can simply add new Fonts to GoodNotes on your iPad through an app like iFont or AnyFont.

• IFont is a font app for iOS and can be found on the official Apple app store. It’s free.
• Alternatively, AnyFont is also a popular option and provides a similar result, but it costs $2

It sounds difficult, but it’s not (anyone can do this without much effort). You’ll need to download iFont or AnyFont, and then follow the onscreen instructions…

When you go to select your Font in GoodNotes, it will automatically be an option for you to select.

You’ll need to save your font in .otf or .ttf format, which are the support font formats for this situation, but these apps make it simple.

You don’t have to use iFont or Anyfont, in fact you download fonts from a Website such as DaFont or a third party app of your choice, just search the Apple App store for Downloadable Fonts.

SideNote: I personally love custom fonts and have even developed a stylish text generator tool, which lets you make stylish custom fonts to be used almost anywhere! (This tool isn’t for GoodNotes, but rather for text messages and other areas online)

To be very clear there are two methods for add new Fonts to GoodNotes, which we’ll cover further in depth:

• Option 1: Download Fonts from Websites and add them to GoodNotes
• Option 2: Download Fonts with Third-Party Apps and add them to GoodNotes

Related: 12 Best Digital Bullet Journal Apps on iPad (and How to Use Them)

How to Add New and Custom Fonts to GoodNotes

Below are two main methods of adding new custom fonts to GoodNotes. One way is to use an app, another is by importing the fonts by downloading them custom via a website of your choice.

Let’s dive right into the first method to get new fonts for GoodNotes on iPad!

Method 1: Use a Font App like iFont or AnyFont

iFont and AnyFont are both ideal options here, but we’ll focus on iFont in this guide.

Essentially, iFont lets you add any font you need to GoodNotes indirectly, as GoodNotes takes it’s fonts from iPads settings, not just the GoodNotes app.

Download and Install the iFont App

One advantage of using a font app like iFont is that it streamlines the process of adding new and custom fonts to your iPad for use within GoodNotes.

To get started, visit the App Store and search for “iFont.” After locating the app, download and install it.

As a side note, iFont is free to download, but there may be in-app purchases for additional features. Once installed, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the user interface and its capabilities.

Side Note: One Alternative to GoodNotes is Notability, see: How to use Notability on iPad, Mac, and iPhone (Tutorial)

Import the Desired Font: Selecting and Saving in OTF or TTF Format

With iFont installed, the next step is importing your desired font. To do this, browse font websites like Dafont or Google Fonts, and download a font in either OTF or TTF format.

After downloading, save the font file to your Files app, Dropbox, or another cloud storage service. Then, open iFont, tap on the “Import” option, and locate the font file you just saved.

Select the file, and it will transfer to the iFont app. Remember to keep in mind the licensing and usage agreements that accompany each font.

Installing the Font: Navigating iPad Settings and Confirming Profile

The third step in the process is installing the font onto your iPad. Within the iFont app, locate your desired font and select the “Install” option.

You will then be prompted to authorize the new font profile within your iPad’s settings.

Follow the on-screen instructions to access the settings and finalize the installation.

Make sure to locate the font profile under “Settings” > “General” > “Profile” (or “VPN & Profile” depending on the iOS version), then tap “Install” and confirm the action.

Utilizing the New Font in GoodNotes and Other Applications

With your custom font successfully installed, you can now open GoodNotes or any other compatible app to start using it.

When typing in GoodNotes, for example, highlight the text you want to change, tap on the font menu, and scroll through the available fonts to locate your newly added font.

Select it, and witness the transformation of your text. One major advantage of this method is the newfound ability to customize your digital notebook to better suit your preferences and boost readability.

Using custom fonts will not only enhance the appearance of your notes but also improve your overall digital note-taking experience.

Method 2: Download Fonts from Websites like DaFont.com

DaFont.com is a popular website for finding and downloading fonts. It offers a vast selection of custom fonts for users to enhance their digital note-taking experience.

1. Choose and Download the Font

To get started with DaFont.com, visit the website and search for fonts based on categories, such as script, sans-serif, serif, or decorative. Once you find a font you like, ensure that it is free for personal use.

2. Download & install the font and save it as a .zip, .ttf, or .otf file on your device.

To install the downloaded font, open the font app (e.g., iFont) on your iPad or iPhone. Tap “Import” and select the saved font file. Allow the app to install this custom font on your device. You may need to navigate to your device’s Settings to approve the installation.

3. Select and test the font in GoodNotes

Once installed, the font should be available in compatible note-taking apps like GoodNotes. It will be in the dropdown area combined with the other fonts you normally use.

Side note: Keep in mind that it’s essential to respect the licensing terms of each font and, if needed, pay for a commercial license before using it in a professional context.

Best custom fonts for GoodNotes

A popular request among GoodNotes users is for serif fonts. These timeless and classic typefaces are perfect for various note-taking needs, adding elegance and readability to digital planners or professional documents.

Some highly recommended serif fonts for GoodNotes include:

• Harmony
• Editorial New
• Young Serif
• Cormorant
• Alegreya
• Restora
• Emberly
• Rude
• Grenze
• Libertinus Serif
• Free Saint George Stencil Font
• Colus
• Amagro
• Poly
• Bitter

These serif fonts offer a wide range of style options, from traditional to modern, making it easier for users to find a font that fits their personal preference or project requirements.

Additional custom fonts for GoodNotes

If you’re looking to diversify your font library even further, you might want to consider adding sans-serif fonts to your collection. Sans-serif typefaces have clean lines and a minimalist design, making them ideal for a professional note-taking experience or for creating sleek, uncluttered planners.

Sans Serif Fonts

To give your GoodNotes projects a stylish and contemporary edge, consider experimenting with these sans-serif fonts:

1. Helvetica Neue
2. Futura
3. Arial
4. Proxima Nova
5. Montserrat
6. Lato
7. Roboto
8. Open Sans
9. Avenir
10. Nunito

These sans-serif fonts come in various styles and weights, allowing users to find a typeface that matches their desired look and feel. Mixing sans-serif fonts with complementary serif options or adding decorative fonts can bring a unique touch to digital planners or presentations.

…Incorporating new and custom fonts into your GoodNotes projects can significantly elevate your note-taking experience by offering a personalized, visually appealing organizational system.

By exploring different font resources, you can build a comprehensive library that caters to your individual or professional needs.

Handwriting Fonts

Handwriting fonts are designed to mimic the look of personal, handwritten text. These fonts are popular in digital note-taking, as they provide a more authentic and personal touch to your notes. Handwriting fonts are available in a variety of styles, ranging from elegant calligraphy to casual and playful cursive writing. One advantage of using handwriting fonts in GoodNotes is the ability to maintain the appearance of a handwritten note while benefiting from the convenience of digital text editing.

Examples of popular handwriting fonts include Amatic SC, Pacifico, and Allura. To incorporate these fonts into GoodNotes, download them from font resources such as Google Fonts or DaFont, and then use an iOS font app to install them on your iPad. Remember to check the licensing agreements for personal or commercial use before downloading fonts.

Decorative/Display Fonts

Decorative or display fonts are primarily used for titles, headings, and other areas where you want to add visual interest or convey a specific message. These fonts are best suited for limited text, as they can be difficult to read in larger blocks. Utilizing decorative fonts in GoodNotes can help you organize your notes, making it easier for you to locate specific sections or topics.

Fonts like Lobster, Cinzel, or Bebas Neue are popular choices for decorative purposes. To use these fonts on your iPad or iPhone, download them from your preferred font resource and install them using a font app. Keep in mind that, similar to handwriting fonts, licensing agreements must be checked prior to downloading.

Monospace Fonts

Monospace fonts are characterized by their uniform character width, meaning each letter occupies the same amount of horizontal space. These fonts are commonly used in programming, coding, and technical documents, as they provide a clean, organized appearance. In GoodNotes, monospace fonts can be used to create a more efficient note-taking experience, making it easier to align and structure text.

Examples of monospace fonts include Courier, Roboto Mono, and Inconsolata. To add these fonts to your GoodNotes app, download them from a font resource and install them using an iOS font app. As always, verify licensing agreements for personal or commercial use before utilizing them.

Also see: Goodnotes for Mac Review: Is the Desktop version worth it?

Why Custom Fonts Matter

Custom fonts play a significant role in enhancing the overall digital note-taking experience. They not only improve the visual aesthetics of your notes but also help in organizing the content effectively. By using different types of fonts, you can easily differentiate between headings, subheadings, and regular text. This makes your notes more well-structured and easily readable.

You could also use these Custom fonts in your Digital planner templates for GoodNotes.

Another advantage of using custom fonts is that they can evoke certain emotions or attitudes, enabling you to personalize your work, set a particular tone, or emphasize specific information. In addition to being visually engaging, custom fonts add a unique touch to your digital notes, making them stand out and be more memorable.

Best Custom Font Apps for GoodNotes

There are several custom font apps available for use with GoodNotes, offering a variety of options to import, manage, and use custom fonts on your iPad or iPhone. Some popular font apps include iFont, AnyFont, and Fonteer.

• iFont: Offers the ability to download fonts directly from Google Fonts, Dafont, and Fontspace, as well as the option to install custom fonts via a configuration profile.
• AnyFont ($2): Allows you to install a wide range of fonts in TTF, OTF, or TTC formats. Compatible with multiple apps that use the device’s font book, such as Word, Pages, Keynote, and more.
• Fonteer: Enables emailing a configuration profile for font installations and provides access to Google Fonts. Compatible with Pages, Keynote, Numbers, Word, and many other apps.

By exploring the various custom font apps available and selecting the best option for your needs, you can easily personalize and enhance your digital note-taking experience in GoodNotes.

Why use a custom font

Incorporating custom fonts into your GoodNotes documents can open up a world of possibilities, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your notes.

One advantage of using custom fonts is that it enables you to express your personal style, adding a touch of individuality and creativity to otherwise mundane note-taking tasks.

Secondly, custom fonts can also help improve the organization of your notes, as different fonts and styles can effectively differentiate between various types of content or emphasize important points.

Lastly, utilizing custom fonts can make your GoodNotes notes visually engaging, making the note-taking process more enjoyable.

What to consider when Choosing a custom font

When selecting a custom font for your GoodNotes documents, there are several crucial aspects you should consider to ensure that your chosen fonts contribute positively to your note-taking experience.

Readability

Prioritizing readability is essential when choosing a custom font for GoodNotes. A font that is difficult to read can hinder your ability to comprehend the information quickly, leading to frustration and a potential decrease in productivity. Therefore, it’s vital to select fonts that are clear, easy to read, and well-designed, making sure that the text remains legible even at smaller sizes.

Aesthetic Appeal

While functionality is undoubtedly important, the aesthetic appeal of a custom font should not be overlooked. A visually attractive font can make your notes more engaging, inspiring your creativity and motivation to review or work with your notes. Make sure to choose fonts that align with your personal style and complement the overall design of your digital planner or notes.

Compatibility with GoodNotes

Before selecting a custom font, ensure that it is compatible with GoodNotes and is easily importable. The process of adding new fonts should be seamless and efficient. In this regard, numerous fonts are designed explicitly for GoodNotes or similar note-taking apps, so choose fonts that are conducive to hassle-free integration.

Also see: 13 Best Video Players for iPad Pro and Air

Do you need to know how to Code to add These fonts to GoodNotes?

One of the best aspects of adding custom fonts to GoodNotes is that it does not necessitate any coding skills or expertise. Users can simply utilize third-party apps like iFont or AnyFont to import and manage different types of fonts, streamlining the entire process for a hassle-free experience.

By using these apps, you can easily browse and choose fonts from various online repositories, such as Google Fonts or DaFont, without the need for complex coding maneuvers. Once the desired font is downloaded, these apps will guide you in installing the font onto your iPad or iPhone. After the installation, your custom fonts will be readily accessible within GoodNotes, enhancing your digital note-taking experience without any need for coding knowledge.

Bottom Line

Flowing from the thoughts above, you can select a font app such as iFont or AnyFont to install new fonts on your device. Explore free font libraries like DaFont, FontSpace, and Google Fonts to download desired fonts… then Import and install your chosen fonts using the font app’s instructions and device configuration.

Check the installed fonts in note-taking apps like GoodNotes, ensuring they are available and customize your digital planner with different fonts to improve aesthetics and organization.