Choosing the right tool can make all the difference. iPads have become the go-to devices for artists, offering a blend of power, portability, and precision. In this full guide, we will explore the five top best budget iPad for drawing in 2024. From the powerhouse iPad Pro models to the budget-friendly iPad, we will explore their specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid, pricing details, and features tailored specifically for drawing.
iPad Pro 12.9-inch budget iPad for drawing:
Specifications:
Stylus support: Apple Pencil 2, Apple Pencil USB-C
Screen size: 12.9-inch
Resolution: 2048 x 2732 pixels
Weight: 682g
Dimensions: 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4mm
OS: iPadOS 16.1
CPU: Apple M2 chip
Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB/2TB
Rear cameras: 12MP, 10MP, TOF 3D LiDAR
Front camera: 12MP
Reasons to Buy:
The best screen on an iPad, boasting the Liquid Retina XDR display for exceptional contrast and brightness.
Super-fast processor with the Apple M2 chip, ensuring smooth performance for demanding creative tasks.
Generous storage options up to 2TB, providing ample space for large drawing files.
Excellent drawing experience with Apple Pencil 2 support and a responsive 120Hz refresh rate.
High-quality rear and front cameras, ideal for reference photos and video calls.
Reasons to Avoid:
The most expensive iPad option, potentially exceeding budget constraints.
Large size may not be suitable for on-the-go usage or for users seeking a more compact device.
Features for Drawing:
Exceptional screen quality with high contrast and brightness for accurate color representation.
Apple Pencil 2 supports for precise drawing and shading.
Fast processing speeds to handle complex digital art applications seamlessly.
Ample storage options to store a vast collection of artwork and resources.
Responsive 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth and fluid drawing experience.
iPad Air (5th gen) budget iPad for drawing:
Specifications:
Stylus support: Apple Pencil 2, Apple Pencil USB-C
Screen size: 10.9-inch
Resolution: 2350 x 1640 pixels
Weight: 461g
Dimensions: 247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1mm
OS: iPad 16.1
CPU: Apple M1 chip
Storage: 64GB/256GB
Rear cameras: 12MP, dual pixel PDAF
Front camera: 12MP
Reasons to Buy:
Lighter and cheaper than the Pro models, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious artists.
Beautifully sleek design with a large, high-resolution screen, suitable for visual creative work.
Solid performance powered by the Apple M1 chip, ensuring smooth operation for drawing applications.
Apple Pencil 2 support for precise and natural drawing experience.
Offers better value compared to the iPad Pro models, making it accessible to a wider range of artists.
Reasons to Avoid:
Limited storage options may require frequent file management for users with extensive art collections.
Slower refresh rate compared to the Pro models may result in slight delays during drawing sessions.
Features for Drawing:
High-resolution screen with even backlighting and accurate color reproduction.
Apple Pencil 2 support for precise input and tilt sensitivity.
Smooth performance powered by the Apple M1 chip, suitable for multitasking and resource-intensive drawing applications.
Lightweight and portable design, ideal for artists on the move.
Solid camera quality for capturing reference images and participating in video calls.
iPad Mini budget iPad for drawing:
Specifications:
Stylus support: Apple Pencil 2, Apple Pencil USB-C
Screen size: 8.3 inches
Resolution: 1488 x 2266 pixels
Weight: 293-297g
Dimensions: 195.4 x 134.8 x 6.3mm
OS: iPadOS 15
CPU: A15 Bionic
Storage: 64GB/256GB
Rear camera: 12MP
Front camera: 12MP
Reasons to Buy:
Very portable design, perfect for artists who need to sketch on the go.
Lovely screen with high resolution, providing crisp and vibrant visuals for drawing.
Good battery life, ensuring long drawing sessions without frequent recharging.
Apple Pencil 2 support for precise and natural drawing experience.
Up to 256GB of storage space, sufficient for storing artwork and resources on the device.
Reasons to Avoid:
Smaller screen size may not be suitable for users who prefer larger canvas space for drawing.
Limited compatibility with certain drawing applications or accessories due to the older iPadOS version.
Features for Drawing:
Compact and lightweight design for easy portability.
High-resolution screen with excellent color accuracy and brightness.
Apple Pencil 2 support for precise input and pressure sensitivity.
Extended battery life for uninterrupted drawing sessions on the go.
Adequate storage options for storing artwork and reference materials.
iPad 2022 (10th Gen) budget iPad for drawing:
Specifications:
Stylus support: Apple Pencil 1, Apple Pencil USB-C
Screen size: 10.9 inches
Resolution: 1640 x 2360 pixels
Weight: 477g (Wi-Fi only), 481g (Wifi + Cellular)
Dimensions: 248.6 x 179.5 x 7mm
OS: iPadOS 16.1
CPU: Apple A14 Bionic
Storage: 64GB/256GB
Rear camera: 12MP
Front camera: 12MP
Reasons to Buy:
Good battery life, ensuring extended drawing sessions without frequent recharging.
More affordable price compared to other iPad models, suitable for budget-conscious artists.
Great color options for personalization and style.
True Tone support for adjusting color balance based on ambient lighting conditions.
Solid performance powered by the Apple A14 Bionic chip, suitable for most drawing applications.
Reasons to Avoid:
Doesn’t support Apple Pencil 2, limiting compatibility with newer stylus features and functionalities.
Requires additional adapter for charging Apple Pencil 1, adding inconvenience for users.
Features for Drawing:
True Tone support for accurate color representation in various lighting conditions.
Apple Pencil 1 support for precise input and drawing capabilities.
Lightweight and portable design for on-the-go creativity.
Apple A14 Bionic chip for smooth performance with drawing applications.
Available in a variety of color options for personalization and style.
iPad Pro 12.9-inch budget iPad for drawing:
Specifications:
Stylus support: Apple Pencil 2, Apple Pencil USB-C
Screen size: 11 inches, 12.9 inches
Resolution: 2048 x 2732 pixels
Weight: 682g
Dimensions: 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4mm
OS: iPadOS 16.1
CPU: Apple M1 chip
Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB/2TB
Rear cameras: 12MP, 10MP, TOF 3D LiDAR
Front camera: 12MP
Reasons to Buy:
Excellent software support with regular updates from Apple, ensuring longevity and compatibility with newer apps.
Apple M1 chip provides fast and responsive performance, suitable for demanding creative tasks.
Good range of storage options to accommodate diverse artistic projects and files.
Liquid Retina XDR display for enhanced brightness and detail in dark areas, ideal for visual creative work.
Available at potentially lower prices compared to newer models, offering value for money.
Reasons to Avoid:
Stock availability may be limited, requiring thorough research to find suitable deals.
Limited availability of newer features introduced in subsequent iPad models.
Features for Drawing:
Apple Pencil 2 support for precise input and tilt sensitivity.
Liquid Retina XDR display for exceptional brightness and detail in dark areas.
Apple M1 chip for fast and responsive performance with drawing applications.
Wide range of storage options to accommodate extensive art collections and projects.
ProMotion technology for smooth and fluid drawing experience with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Choosing the best budget iPad for drawing in 2024 depends on various factors, including budget, portability, and performance requirements. Whether you opt for the powerhouse iPad Pro model with cutting-edge features or the budget-friendly iPad with essential drawing capabilities, each device offers unique benefits tailored to the needs of digital artists. Evaluate your preferences and artistic workflow to make an informed decision and unleash your creative potential on the canvas of your choice.
