iPad VS Wacom... (Professional Advice - I Own Both)

[@gundamo_creates]

I've been an artist in the games industry for over 25 years now and used all Wacom products. Used to love having the large setup....but now my body just can't handle sitting at my desk for 10+ hours. I really loving these new portable options like ipad pro or s7+. They get me 80% of the way, great for leisure and coffee shop use. If I get to the point I need to finalize I'll bring it to the PC. Try them out and see which workflow is the best for you....ultimately you should focus on your skills. Technology won't make you a better artist.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Yeah great points! The ergonomics are a major factor to consider.

[@aaadesktop]

This is happening to me, plus my ADHD makes it worse having to stay in my office and not a cafe or even a park. My Mobile studio Pro is getting old and need to plug it in otherwise I only get an hour or so , which just completely limits my freedom. I've been looking into this iPad, enough to do my sketching and maybe a few colors and layers here or there, which I've found is about 70% of my workload rather than fully fledged render work. Definitely closing in on a decision.

[@gundamo_creates]

@@aaadesktop Procreate and ipad is definitely the best imo but I an old retro gamer....so i love the ease of having emulators and sd card expansion on the galaxy tab S8 plus and a file system thats easy to manage. The set back it the app quality is not as good as iPad OS. Wish procreate would come out on Android

[@TakamiPROJECT]

Both expensive 🥲

[@silvercrow3007]

@@TakamiPROJECT try to find them second hand? Some are still new and have little wear and tear.

[@Wolfswind003]

I think the ipad is a better option for people who do art more as a hobby. They also are a great device to have for professionals additionally to the cinteq. The great thing about an iPad is that they are an 'all in one portable' product. If you're a professional and have a big wacom at home or in an office, that's great... but you can't take it with you during travels. If you have an hour-long train ride you can easily sketch on the iPad, but carrying a huge screen+ PC? That's not practical. You can also take the iPad outside if you're tired of working indoors all the time. For people who do art as a hobby, I don't think a big screen is a good option. It's nice being able to take a device to the park and sketch, rather than being chained to a desk.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Yeah I agree! iPad makes a lot of sense if you are doing this as a hobby.

[@KitsuneHB]

Agree. I do art as a hobby and still learning a lot. An Ipad is perfect for me because I don't want to become a professional and I could use my Ipad (Air, 5th generation) for other purposes as well.

[@miskliy1]

I am profesional and have many screen divices and ipad is the best yo start my projects just use photoshop and my Cintiq to finish up my most high end digital paintings or to make graphic design.

[@dark_nightwing_xl2797]

@@miskliy1facts

[@Slurgical_3D_Terrain_Channel]

My first tablet was a Wacom UD1212. I absolutely love it. I recently came back to the artistic craft with an iPad Pro 2nd gen. I do CAD design for tabletop gaming terrain to 3D print. I’m physically disabled and this is my chance to reinvent myself professionally. It has saved my life since it is physically manageable for me. I still dream about my Wacom UD1212 lol

[@abiwhite7795]

As a left handed artist, the iPad takes the cake. I was so frustrated having to deal with mirroring and flipping my pen display upside down and having to switch controls and recalibrate the pen. The iPad Pro has been such a blessing for me.

[@tewfuller]

We set up a left handed work station for my son and we both like the Wacom hooked to the desk top. We put all the controls on the computers screen and only have the drawing canvas on the Wacom display. He uses his right hand on the mouse, pen in left hand. I do the reverse as I'm right handed, mouse in my left hand. This means having to train using a mouse in your off hand (Which not everyone is capable of, and that's ok). If you can train using a mouse in your off hand, though, the speed and productivity boost is amazing.

[@abiwhite7795]

That might be something I have to look into in the future. I would definitely prefer the bigger screen compared to the iPad but without the hassle. Thanks!

[@red8981]

@@tewfullerwhat do you use mouse for?

[@AGoodJoe]

Same

[@UpstageBeast]

my biggest reason for considering an ipad is that it does not require wires or a pc to run. You have everything available to you in one device that you can pick up whenever you feel like being creative [given that it's in the 2d plane as you say]. Does anyone else know of a graphic table with the os built in like an ipad ?

[@SkywalkFPV]

Uhh yes?.. How about the Microsoft Surface pro? That is able to run the full Adobe suite!.. Also Samsung Galaxy tablets.. Both are capable graphic devices that have drawing pencils..

[@bunobeatz5737]

I own both been an artist for 15 years. The cintiq is absolutely the best feeling drawing tablet period. The stylus on the screen is just perfect. However you get the best resolution with the ipad pro. But the ipad pro is no where close to how good the cintiq is. Any size of cintiq, 16 and up is just perfect. I have the 22 in but the 16 in honestly is all you will need.

[@yoservs]

i second you on this. i've had my 16 HD since 2020. it's a real workhorse. how do you feel about the resolution on the22 HD? i see many who use the pro line kinda looks down on the 22HD, but then again i see many artists creating high end quality art with the 22HD. it looks like real value for money. so i'm two-minded, should i go for a bigger display, or a portable device, like the ipad pro? my budget is limited, so cintiq pros are somewhat of a pipe dream for now...

[@HipposHateWater]

@@yoservs Random person chiming in, but I used a 16" 1080p display tablet for about 3ish years, and I strongly feel 16" is the limit for a comfortable experience on a 1080p display tab. (Especially noticeable if you do a lot of finer-detailed linework.) Some may draw that line a bit higher, but I find the individual pixels just get too annoyingly large if you try to scale 1080p beyond that. (Easiest way to answer this for yourself is to try getting super close to a 1080p 22" monitor in a Best Buy or something and see if that resolution's fine with you.)

[@artguy7992]

Ipad has better screen tho , its just doesnt have good apps

[@digitalmarketinghumans]

I have the 22 and I wish I got the 16 lol. I still use it but I was like...way too big for my needs.

[@dumbcat]

Nikolai Lockertsen does incredible work on the iPad

[@KuttyJoe]

Cintiq for maximum productivity. iPad for maximum mobility. We just have to know which one is most important for us individually. But, it's never possible to have it all in one product. To have that kind of mobility or portability, something must be sacrificed and that's the case with any kind of product you can think of.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Very true! Ultimately if one can afford to get both then they will definitely come in handy for different things.

[@e-xmile1044]

@Tom Bar-Gal read with understanding...

[@mocknugget]

@@e-xmile1044 mate probably read it at 3am

[@CuT7yFlaM]

You've said it all. Wacom is the best desktop experience - reliable, integrated universally, simple. Expensive but worth it. iPad is an iPad with all its pros and cons: a mobile device (battery, limited power) with all kinds of uses, not as drawing oriented but not incompetent at that either.

[@kronkilton2153]

@Tom Bar-Gal …. Well actually mobile studio pro kinda offers mobility. I used the 13 inch version. Still feels a lot chunkier comparing to an iPad, but the pen experience is just as on Cintiq. I even 3d modeled in Sketchup with 8GB CPU. Almost exploded but it still managed to do it.

[@kronkilton2153]

I’ve tried iPad, Wacom Mobile studio pro and Cintiq 24’. For bigger projects like animation and comics Cintiq 24’ allowed me to do everything so much faster. IPad is actually good for illustrations anywhere anytime you want. And MSP… it didn’t explode and I’m thankful for that…

[@peaceman5348]

I'm a beginner please guide me

[@Gentlyjack1]

I have an MSP and had to remove the battery from it, because it became a spicy pillow and I didn't want to risk a battery fire. Works without a battery installed 😋

[@kronkilton2153]

@@Gentlyjack1 did you remove it yourself? I’m extremely scared of it actually explode one day 🥲

[@MakerKath]

@@kronkilton2153 I sure did do the removal myself. I recommend either getting a computer technician that’s qualified to do it, or getting guides to follow if you want to do it yourself, since it’s a tricky one… however never try to force off anything with the MSP, once you got the right screws out, screen and so should be easy to remove as it is not held by adhesives. Also, when handling anything with an inflated battery, please discharge the battery fully before attempting to remove it or so… and avoid using any devices that currently has an inflated battery. Just in case the battery still catch fire, please keep a bucket or a tub full of sand nearby and keep the area ventilated… once fire started, you can’t stop it, only prevent it from spreading.

[@kronkilton2153]

@@MakerKath thank you very much!

[@AGoodJoe]

As a disabled professional artist, the iPad Pro has been an absolute savior. I have a Huion i like too, but as you said, it's really just making use of what works for you. I think if you can afford both, get both. The wacom or huion tabs are far more affordable if you have a pic. These days there are some great apple pencil nibs that give a great feeling accuracy. Great video.

[@LifeLongArtist]

I have a MacBook Air and I can connect my cheap iPad to it and work on programs that only run on Mac. So, that means you can totally use full Photoshop on iPad. I use that feature to sculpt 3d models in Blender with my iPad instead of a mouse. Even used it on zoom calls when writing or drawing something in meetings. It’s incredibly versatile and can be used in many areas other than just art

[@polakuu]

how do you connect the iPad to your Macbook? Sidecar? Astropad Studio? or something else?

[@LifeLongArtist]

@@polakuu you can go into settings and do it, or you can use your Macs control center and use the screen mirror option. You don’t really NEED to have a cable connection to do it, but it works best if you use one

[@jekalambert9412]

The main considerations for me in choosing iPad over Wacom were #1, $$$, and #2, space. I'm starting out. Locking into a costly Adobe subscription for software that I found extremely difficult to use and that constantly crashed my computer although my computer meets Adobe specs, was for me unnecessarily frustrating and a huge financial drain. #2, I live in a small space. A Cintiq is not only a HUGE investment on top of the expensive Adobe subscription, but I would have needed to devote a large portion of my workspace to the Cintiq system at the expense of having space to create analogue art. I find using the Wacom stylus to be challenging. I just don't feel comfortable drawing while looking in a different direction to see what I've drawn. My iPad allows me to see what I'm drawing as I draw it, just like when I create analogue art. I love my iPad 6 and consider it one of the best investments I've ever made. Procreate is totally accessible. Within a couple of months, I'd mastered most of the functions I needed to create my artwork. I'm still expanding and exploring. Despite Procreate's limitations, I can do everything I want to do with it, and it's not wrecking my budget every month, nor is it causing all the other programs on my machine to slow to the point of barely functioning. I'm about to purchase Affinity Photo to do the photo editing functions I cannot do in Procreate - at around $20 one time fee for iPad, this is another financially sound decision for me. For vector illustrations, Vectornator works great! I find it easier to use than Ai. It has an image trace program that's superior to Adobe Capture. Vectornator doesn't have all the bells and whistles Ai has, but it does everything I need it to do. Besides, it's FREE! It doesn't get cheaper than that. I did install an iCarez paperlike screen protector on my iPad because I found drawing on the slippery glass screen to be very challenging. Now, with the paperlike, I have absolutely no problems with slipping or accuracy. I attempted to learn Adobe Fresco on my iPad, but was stymied by Adobe sponsored tutorials that spent hours talking about how wonderful Adobe is because of the way the programs interface with each other, yet wouldn't execute the functions that were supposed to help me learn via the online tutorial. (BTW, I find the Fresco live brushes to be a gimmick. You can achieve the same effects with Procreate brushes, plus, Vectornator has both vector and raster functions.) No going back to Adobe for me. Like you, I wish that the iPad had a larger screen, but that's my only regret. Given the huge financial advantages associated with an abundance of free or low cost software, as well as the portability of my iPad that allows me to use it in any room in my house, outside on my covered porch, or on the go, this is a small tradeoff. I'm seriously considering upgrading to an iPad Pro. I would LOVE it if Apple introduced a larger version of the iPad in response to artists and designers who want a larger drawing surface. Thanks for your balanced comments about iPad vs Wacom. Your views are thought provoking and appreciated.

[@rockon8174]

Huion Kamvas 22 plus and ClipStudio Paint. Better set up and all under $600.

[@Eagle_Owl2]

@@rockon8174 yeah no. She just described that she doesn't have the space for it. Same goes for me. I have a small flat, a tiny desk that's also sometimes used as a dining table and I only have an aging notebook. I thought about getting a Huion, but then I would always have to put it away after use and I could only use it with my notebook which is really not fit anymore for that task. With my IPad I can comfortably sit on the couch and draw while watching movies with my bf. And when I'm done I can put it on the shelf. Also, I don't have to boot my notebook first amd connect the tablet to it. With the IPad its just pressing one button and I'm ready to go. And when I moved a couple of months ago (from one tiny flat to another) I was so glad to have the IPad since I could still draw in the moving chaos. I agree with the wish that the IPad had a larger screen (I have a Pro 2020 with 12")

[@peaceman5348]

Can you help me, I'm a beginner need guidance

[@geneoakley]

For those of us not making a career out of drawing, the latest 11" iPad Pro will always be the best you'll get between performance and cost. If we do this full time, we wouldnt have to argue about it.

[@blinkofaneye4451]

Photoshop on iPad has improved a lot and keeps improving. If you have the subscription, you can use it on both desktop and iPad and easily move documents between the two.

[@Thezellofamily]

Thank you for the critique. I haven't done ANY digital art and trying to figure out what the best way to start digital art is overwhelming.

[@nuwang1]

Me tooooo....!

[@77HealingArtsStudios77]

From one Artist to another: I was in the same boat earlier this year. However, I graduated to digital art in just a few days, For me the Ipad was more cost effective and the most simple way for me to get into digital drawing. It's just my opinion, but once you learn the Ipad Pro (Try Adobe Illustrator), then if necessary move onto other devices like the Wacom, at least that's what I plan to do. Im perfectly fine with the Ipad Pro and love it's intuitiveness, this may come in handy when using other devices because you may not need it so intuitive, Although, it really helps while learning Digital Drawing. The IPAD is more mobile, if you want to learn on the go, something to take in consideration. If you click my Profile Icon those are two of my 1st IPAD PRO drawings, I put them there for demonstration only, looks like they came in handy for times like this 😄🎨 Hope this helps!! God Bless!! Subscribed!!💯

[@xerdziusia8103]

I switched to digital art last year, I recommend you start with one of the cheaper drawing tablets without a screen like the UGEE M708 or one of the ones from XP pen. Do this so that you can get used to the feel of drawing on a tablet. If you feel like you want to continue, down the digital art, thats when I would say it would be smart to upgrade to a tablet with a screen. Because the ones with screens are really expensive. Now, for people who are considering getting an iPad and the apple pencil, but they don't wanna tank their account by almost 700 or $800 dollars right away, there is a solution. You can rent an iPad and an apple pencil from this company called Grover, for a little under or over $30, depending on which ipad you get, cuz the pros are obviously more expensive. Now before I continue, in order to be approved for a rental you must have some credit history. If you have none, you could ask a parent or someone who has credit history to get the rental approval, and NO it does not affect your credit score. With that out of the way, I went with the iPad Air 5, I think its just right for me, and as of right now I don't think I'm planning on upgrading to a pro anytime soon. The way the rental works is that they bill you the rent price monthly, you can select a plan to rent it up to a year if you want to, which will be the cheaper option, but you are NOT locked into this, you can cancel it at anytime, so if you decide that an iPad isn't for you, or lets say you bought an Air but want to go with the Pro instead, you can just send it back to Grover and exchange it. If I remember correctly, if you rent the devices for 36 months I believe, you can buy it for $1 and keep it permanently, obviously over time it'll probably be slightly more expensive than if you bought the iPad outright from apple. And you don't have to worry about the condition of the device, they are in factory condition, and insured, so if something happens to your rental while its in transit, you can get it replaced easily. So this is the solution to getting an iPad and the Apple Pencil 2 at a low cost, if you just want to try it out to see if you'll like it first. Hope this helps, cheers!

[@NickName-mn6jm]

@@77HealingArtsStudios77 can I ask, are you satisfied with the brushes and stuff in apps. Do you find yourself unable to do a certain style, because you are limited to more basic app tools?

[@skypilgrim]

One thing I feel is really important that I found is this: I work primarily on PC with a display tablet and it's, as you stated, very accurate and, in turn, makes it the better choice for actual production. However, I also find myself finding my art stale or I fall into a rhythm of art that isn't satisfying. I got an ipad exprecting it to be similar to a portable art station but was surprised at how much more loose and painterly most of the programs felt. it forced me to be less worried about detail and to worry more about shape since I couldn't do my fine 0.3 type ink drawings as reliably on the device. ultimately, I find it a great tool for forcing yourself to think differently as an artist.

[@catherinekasper5770]

I just have to jump in here. Years ago when I was still teaching elementary school Art, I BOUGHT Adobe CS3 which included Photoshop, Illustrator, etc. and I had the discs. Even with the educator's discount, it was a great deal of money since I was a single mom and my salary was super low. Over time, I learned to use Photoshop very well, I put it onto every computer I owned since then. I drew and painted as often as I could, learned as I went along. I started a shop on Etsy, sold that artwork and I still sell it today. When I look back, I'm amazed that little side gig brought in so much money and every penny helped. CS3 still runs well on my Windows 10 computer. It does everything I need it to and I have never had any need or desire to upgrade it. In fact, when I view art tutorials on you tube or take a class, the artist/teacher never uses any feature of the current program that I don't have in CS 3! That's hilarious. My beef with Adobe is that over the course of those years, they disabled the ability to use the discs. They demanded that I download it again from their servers and check to see if I paid for the program every single time I open it up. Now, they have deleted CS3 completely from their servers. I found that out after I upgraded the RAM on my laptop and tried to reinstall it later. One day in the far future, when I have to get rid of my excellent desktop, I'll be unable to ever use it again. I bought that program. I didn't rent it. How is this OK? Why should Adobe have any say in how long I get to use it if my computers will still run it? I'll NEVER pay them for any subscription of theirs and I am extremely glad there are excellent programs to replace it. I do use a Wacom Intuos tablet. It's basic and annoying to have to use both that and the keyboard but, whatever. It works. I ordered a refurbished Ipad Pro 3rd Generation 2 days ago and am looking forward to this upgrade. I will never use Adobe programs on it though, you can count on that. Also, what many people do not know is that Photoshop was originally built on open source software. By now, there might be something proprietary about it, I suppose but I'll bet any money that the competing programs that are so similar are built upon that same (now advanced) code. I'll bet some of them are excellent replacements. I'll spend this summer of my retirement in my shady back yard, drawing with that Ipad. If I can't see the screen even in the shade, my favorite arm chair will simply have to do. hahahaha. Of course, I can hole up in the studio with the Wacom too........naaawwww.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Hey Catherine! I agree 100% I’m not a fan of subscription software. Apple has similar issues for me regarding planned obsolescence of hardware etc. I am keen to explore different options for software soon. But my schedule makes it tricky to really try different ways of working. There are quite a few photoshop features that I rely on. But if I could get rid of Adobe I would :) their software is still buggy and unreliable with new releases… and they keep forcing the upgrades. I don’t feel like they have my back at all despite the fact I use photoshop everyday.

[@catherinekasper5770]

@@TheDrawingCodex I thought you were going to say "despite the fact that I PAY them every day. lol. I think the only back they have is their own and I'm so very glad there are good alternate program options now. Am going through Procreate tutorials right at the moment and will learn Art Studio Pro as well. I agree, it's tough to switch when there's work to be done.

[@garrettwhite3922]

The Adobe greed is whybi use affinity lol

[@Templar1129]

Same here! I used adobe for years and then they pulled that disgusting greed move-which should be illegal. I started using affinity and gave adobe the bird.

[@CatherineKasper-v2h]

@@Templar1129 Yes! I bought all the Affinity programs too last year during a fabulous Black Friday sale they ran. I'm learning them gradually. I also bought a better IPad Pro, learned to use Procreate and I'm all set. Never again as far as Adobe goes!

[@AmandaMG6]

We didn't touch on something that I think is key - we can use the iPad Pro as an input device for a PC that's running Blender, for example. I feel that's a 2 for 1 alongside the portability

[@Toth420]

works for the Wacom too

[@nnnneeeeuuuu]

Being from the third world I have to be really picky with what I buy. Cintiq like that is a dream, but the iPad man.... it's wonderful. Procreate, Clipstudio are all I need. Of course I had to get a bluetooth keyboard and a decent stand for me to draw ergonomically but that still wasn't as pricey as a Cintiq like that. That costs like a very decent brand new car down here! hahah

[@icedoc09]

THIS pro review is the most significant video in helping me make a decision between these two. Thank you for your insight!

[@Cacalotlraven]

I'm a freelancer. I'm also an art teacher. I'm also a parent for three little ones. I don't have a space in my home any more. Anyone that spends time raising their children and spending time with their family and all the chores/fun that goes with it, (not leaving the spouse to "babysit") there's just no time to be able to set myself down in my own space. I would love to have an IPAD or Samsung galaxy tab s8 just to be able to create my work wherever and whenever I can (sometimes the littles one needs changing in the middle of the night, sometimes the little ones are sick and need a parent to be available etc.) just haven't been able to afford one myself. There's something about being able to take a sketch all the way to final render that is so satisfying. Working on paper and pencil and paint is just not the same. It's satisfying but digital is the way to go for anyone that has little time to themselves or space.

[@zeroman614]

Cintiq wins hands down for me. The ability to have real “from the shoulder” gestures really makes my work sooooo much better. That said, My iPad Pro is usually where I start my sketching, thumbnails, and color studies.

[@JTMC93]

A late addition. Smaller Cintiq's and pen displays aren't that different from drawing on a Samsung or Apple tablet.

[@stevecurcuru]

Working storyboard artist, digital for 20 years. For fast shooting boards the iPad and Procreate are a dream - digital flexibility with the mobility of a sketch pad. But for more rendered color keyframes and animatics, I still need Photoshop on a full Mac. Actually the Modbook was the best fit for me, used it for years - unfortunately that company went under and you can’t upgrade the OS. Apple will never cannibalize their Mac sales by giving the iPad the full functionality of a Mac- it’s always going to be a great “third device” between the phone and Mac. Great to see your rundown of both, good info.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Hey Steve! Thanks for your thoughts on this. I totally agree the iPad replaces a sketchbook with portable digital drawing really really well. I find doing more complicated things on it just takes longer than a desktop/laptop with photoshop though. And that’s a great point that Apple will perhaps always limit the capabilities of the iPad somewhat.

[@dibujemaestro]

Agree. I do storyboards and animatics too. The same conclusion as yours.

[@purefoldnz3070]

do you use Procreate?

[@laurie2508]

Feature animation artist turned Teacher and used Wacom tablet, Cintiq and iPad Pro. Most important thing you discussed is preference. It’s all about your individual process. For me, I prefer iPad Pro over anything else. I could use Procreate and export as a PSD (Photoshop file), I can then finish in any platform. Or finish in procreate. One flaw with your comparison is that you’re comparing the 12.9 iPad Pro with probably the large Cintiq pro (I’m guessing). It would’ve been a more accurate comparison to use the Cintiq pro 17 inch. This is a better comparison because the lifework area is only marginally smaller with the iPad Pro. It’s closer to apples and apples. I actually have used in taught Photoshop for 20 years. For me, procreate was a revelation! The iPad is so fast, and when you’re set to draw, a lot of features in Photoshop you really don’t need. Another non-apples and apples is that you have to plug in your Cintiq In order to use it. iPad is totally portable, you don’t have to sit in a “Working at a desk“ posture to draw. You can be in any position you want. I don’t think you covered that. However it was a really good comparison although the two devices are quite different. I find the line Quality in Procreate is so much better than what I could achieve in Photoshop. Basically, an artist is going to pick a few brushes and use those. Either platform has so many options you don’t need. Rather than focus on device, as a teacher, I would recommend focusing on finding the tools and settings that Work best for you. Rather than worrying about device, dig into color theory a bit, and composition. Neither device is gonna do that for you. I never had the gorgeous experience you Xpress with the Cintiq, After using it every day for two years. And as you summed it up, it’s about finding what’s best for you, which means trying to get to a dealer who can let you experience what are you gonna spend a lot of money on. Great review!

[@jayanimations494]

The smoothest experience I’ve ever felt with digital art is with the iPad

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Yeah it is pretty smooth for sure!

[@faitttth]

literally or figuratively ,

[@epicsseven7686]

There's a company in my old home State, Michigan that custom make matt screens for touchscreen devices. I own the Lenovo Yoga A940 computer. It has a glossy screen. I'd purchased the 27 inch matt screen. It's awesome. It feels like you're drawing on paper. For iPad users, a matt screen cover would be useful in bright conditions.

[@motiong171]

what is it called

[@ceoatcrystalsoft4942]

​@@motiong171 yeah seriously, why not share lol

[@ceoatcrystalsoft4942]

​@@motiong171looks paperlike does one but it's not Michigan

[@عزامالزهرانيزهران]

Just got mine in the mail today. kzbin.infoUgkxhcEDB3r-OJ3_X5hQzr7k1ZofTQy1ao_U The corners of the box was a little smashed but I think that’s more of the shipping’s fault. iPad was in perfect condition though. I ordered the yellow one thinking it was going to be a bright vibrant color. Instead I looks like more of a Gold color. I personally prefer the gold look. Definitely not disappointed but just a heads up to the ones expecting a brighter cream of yellow.

[@its-beeuwu]

2 of the most important things to me when choosing which drawing products to use are color accuracy and friction. I feel like i'm having to make a bit of a sacrifice to 1 or the other nowadays.

[@josephfrechette9916]

I use an intous pro with a second monitor. Both monitors display slightly diffrent so I can account for any color distortion when I print the image.

[@dominicisidore]

I totally agree the ipad has the best high quality screen to be able to accurately paint with. I have 2 drawing display tablets but the colors look different on each and I use my 4k monitor to check the final result. It's very annoying.

[@razrv3lc]

It’s frustrating how good the screens on iPads are but to get a good feeling while using it, you have to put a matte screen protector on it which dulls the colors and kind of defeats the point of it having such a nice screen lol

[@GravityBlood]

In real life the color accurate stuff only matter much if you do physical printing of your work. However if your work doesn't have to print and end up just to be display on other devices monitor. Then the color accurate is beyond uncontrollable because you will never know for 100% what color will look like on the end user monitor screen.

[@juannete2873]

You can use your Ipad Pro as screen of your windows and drawing with your PC programs in your IPAD.

[@aimeefritz9186]

How? I’m curious

[@carmenibanezsimorte5154]

Hi! Reeally really thank you for the video!! I am an illustrator starter designer, and now as my work have been increasing I had a lot of doubts about if I rather buy a wacom tablet or an ipad pro. This has been really helpful and it answers all my questions!

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Thanks Carmen! Glad it was helpful!

[@emniaa4440]

Which product did you choose since your comment?

[@yassies9640]

As an artist with wrist problems from drawing too long hours, the cintiq is a must. iPad is extremely mobile but not ideal for hours of work in my opinion. Wacom was designed for artists and iPad wasn’t, though it’s an amazing tablet too. In my college years I was moving about a lot throughout the week so didn’t have an apartment or place I was at every single day or evening (dorm, partners place, parents place, college campus) in that case iPad was great. But now that I’m settling down my Cintiq 27 is my best buddy for art.

[@TheLucidSpecter]

@blackbriarwolf not true. People are just too broke to buy the expensive tablets lol

[@nusantaramukbang]

⁠I have been work as an artist for over 5 years in game industry bro, and no one of friend using an Ipad for their professional project, instead they are using wacom, yes Ipad is good but not professional large project

[@griffith43]

​@@blackbriarwolf5766not true artists use wacom they use ipad because they can't afford wacom and wacom is obviously way better it's fact wacom is not 3000 dollars for nothing you want an 1000 dollars ipad that is not designed for art to be better than a 3000 dollars device that is designed specifically for art

[@koniku3y]

​@@blackbriarwolf5766your definition of an artist is miniscule, there's a ton of artists out there ranging from web designers, graphic artists, graphic designers, animators, etc. Heck even all known artists from Japan, Korea and China are all using Wacom.

[@JocereelLozano]

What are you talking about? ipad is created for artists who love doing arts, you can create a lot in procreate, its user friendly. i think you mean its not created for professional work.@@griffith43

[@Amidreamingnow]

The apple pencil is miles ahead more comfortable that a digital pen for wacom and etc. the ipad pro is not that big, but in my opinion it is the future for digital art, music and VFX. .Node Video is a mini version of After effects basically, lots of features, even 3D with lightning and animation.

[@Kaiesis]

Great advise! I agree totally. I also own both and I tell people the exact same thing. Ipad is great for just starting out. Wacom is definitely better, but you need a computer, software, desk space, power. Where Ipad is an all-in-one portable device and Procreate costs $7. For Ipad, sketchboardpro is also a great tool, if you can afford it. I do wish the apple pencil was more like the Wacom stylus. Despite what people think, it is not that good of a stylus.

[@arandomhumanbeing2464]

What makes it “not so good”?

[@TheDrawingCodex]

I think the price of procreate is a huge selling point. Photoshop is really expensive in comparison and I know many people find the price prohibitive!

[@TheDrawingCodex]

For me the Apple Pencil is a bit less comfortable to use over the long term. And harder to grip. But it’s easy to modify it with rubber grips etc.

[@mufaro.]

@@arandomhumanbeing2464 I have a pen tablet that I use sometimes. The Apple Pencil just doesn’t have the same kind of pressure sensitivity. And the experience isn’t as smooth, which is important for when you’re shading. I am planning to upgrade to a pen display because I like drawing on a surface I can see. And so that’s what I use the iPad for for now. For just basic sketching it’s kind of okay. Again, pressure sensitivity is an issue and you have to play around with the brush settings and develop new techniques to get results that you want

[@keithartworker]

Great video. Got my first iPad (Sept 2023) to compliment my 16" Cintiq. I have thoroughly enjoyed the iPad Pro 12.9". Sketching as you have done in procreate feels much more easy breezy than on Photoshop. My technique in the past has been to draw with a chiseled 7B pencil and scan it, send it to photoshop for color. Looking forward to experimenting more

[@modern_clancyboyer]

I do hope that you start sharing more iPad/Procreate work. I share your videos with my students and all of them are on iPads and Procreate. I love your work and even though I've been in the industry for over 30 years, I find your work excellent and inspiring. Thank you!

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Yeah I am waiting on the M3 iPad pro to get back into procreate. I totally agree with what you are saying! It seems like that's where a lot of the newer artists are starting out now. It's definitely on my radar and roadmap!

[@Agent.Michael_Scarn]

I bought an iPad Pro as I wanted to get more serious with my art work (took a long break) and love being able to sketch on my couch or in bed with it. I don’t think I’d have used it half as much if I had to sit at my desk with it. If I get really serious about art though and get very good, I can see myself using the iPad for sketching out an idea and a Wacom to finish it. I’ve found myself using my iPad for a lot more reading and more taking now as well, started learning 3D sculpting with Nomad. Such a great piece of kit!

[@MowMent]

I know someone who also uses iPad for professional illustrations, besides Wacom. I think it's a matter of how we use the tech. It's just amazing that as years goes by, iPad is also being slowly cosidered for professional use nowadays.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Yeah for sure. It seems a lot of people are using them for professional work, and as their main machine. I have no idea how they do it though... the interface is just really slow and limited. So much clicking. I would not be able to create stuff at the pace and scale I do now without all the workstations I have. I still use the iPad for sketching and messing around a lot.

[@SinaTalebazadeh]

ok ive been watching A LOT OF REVIEWS and this is probably the most honest one and real one and it kinda made me decide right now 8 minutes in if you catch my drift love the way he put it and its awesome

[@Dokledee]

I think its really an interesting experience seeing the mediums that people use and die by or use equally between the other for rough sketching up to finalizing details. Personally I’ve been drawing exclusively ipad for 10 years now. I went from an ipad air in 2013 and still use my 2018 ipad pro in 2023. I feel it was perfect considering Im a hobbyist so I put off getting an actual drawing tablet (xppen) until just last month. Besides the size difference, the ability to do multiple things at once (draw while watching youtube, on the ipad you could split screens but that made the canvas just go to hell) is awesome. I can multitask without having to worry about my battery dying 🥲 The only thing that Im still getting used to is. Well. Drawing in general 😂 I feel like a toddler using advanced tech with all the buttons and lack of touch screen that ive been coddled with for so pong. I liked your comment about adapting to your tools so hopefully I can grow to the same efficiency.

[@dibujemaestro]

One more thing. In the ipad, I draw as always. One hand. In a cintiq plus photoshop I need two hands: pencil and keyboard. I can adapt, but is very different than when you draw normally: with one hand.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Yeah I think if you are used to drawing traditionally then something like an iPad or Procreate more specifically will allow you to work more naturally. I find the inability to quickly change tools and do stuff with the keyboard to be really slow overall. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@Markerton]

Man you look like Russell Crowe))

[@KuttyJoe]

I was thinking the same thing.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Haha! ...I'll take that as a complement :)

[@brotherfromanother1971]

ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED!?!

[@kruselka]

Oh, come on. He’s s a way more handsome than Russell!

[@whenraindropsfall]

no Russell Crowe looks like him

[@dpptd30]

Most of the limitations mainly is because of precreate, which limits your canvas layers and resolution severely, lacked interface customizations, and does not have advanced layer grouping functionality. But if you’re using other drawing software like clip studio paint, it has all the functionality as the desktop version, and will not hold you back in those regard. I have a desktop and a display tablet, but the accuracy, both for the color and the pencil of my iPad Pro, still is just leagues and bound better than drawing on my desktop system, the only reason I will draw on the desktop is if my project becomes too big for my iPad’s 8GB memory to handle, and the desktop has more memory and performance to work with, other than that I don’t see why I would want to draw on my PC,

[@ChromiumCastle]

Yeah an ipad with CSP is pretty powerful. Procreate is just overrated trash

[@EternalElvira]

I use my I pad at uni as an art student and have a display tablet for at home. But I'm considering upgrading my iPad to a portable display tablet because the software just isn't there yet. Procreate is amazing for its price and the capabilities of an iPad but it's not Photoshop, and I find the quality of my work suffers. Overall it's about where you are in your art journey.

[@artbyjibs]

I have the iPad Air and 24 inch cintiq. I recently realized that you can use the iPad as an additional monitor with Apple technology called sidecar. In this case, you can run all OS X applications like Z brush and blender perfectly well on the iPad using the Apple Pencil. It works just as well as wacom. This is a nice new discovery.

[@BreezyDefrag]

I remember when I got my first Wacom tablet... I was transitioning from traditional to digital and I was struggling so much to make that work... so much so that I ended up breaking my stylus out of pure frustration... With time, I have gotten used to digital systems now that I prefer it, because it saves so much money because you don't have to buy supplies over time like you do traditional. I have now found myself in the Huion realm because Wacom price gouges SOOO much. But I really don't have too much issue with it and I really enjoy it. I have both regular tablet and a display tablet and they both are great.

I believe that iPad is great for me because it’s like I’m taking my notebook around with me, with my charger of course, with all the tools I need to create an image. With Wacom is nice too, especially the Bluetooth version, but to me it’s kinda bulky. But to each it’s own. I’m using a Huion the one without a screen, pretty old. I’m getting used to it, after I sold my iPad

[@forefatherofmankind3305]

No one asked

[@moon3200]

@@forefatherofmankind3305 Rude. Go work on your mental health or something.

[@KuttyJoe]

@blackbriarwolf LOL. Yeah, that caught me off guard too. I had to go back and see if I misread something.

[@elfua7347]

I just buy the ipad pro 12.9 m1, and man is a power house, I had a wuacom cintiq pro and is good too, but I just love that I don’t need to plug-in to a pc the iPad, and I can do a lot of things there’s, I’m always at home drawing, and how smooth, easy, is procreate vs others programs. I prefer the iPad pro and I will prefer always the iPad pro and procreate.

[@HipposHateWater]

For me the biggest reason keeping me from fully returning to my iPad Pro is the insultingly low ram utilization limiter (and the anemic allotment of layers allowed in ProCreate with professional canvas sizes as a result.) Nothing is more stressful and flow-breaking than constantly having to choose which layer/s would suck less to prematurely merge so you can move on with your complex environmental painting.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Yeah I haven’t tried using it for any larger complex images. Are the ram limitations still a problem with the newer Apple silicone (m1 m2)? ( there is a lot of talk about the ssd being fast enough that it doesn’t matter… but I’m always suspicious of those type of claims) I keep wanting to try the iPad for my normal style of image but I suspect I will run into the issues you mention. Ram really is the magic bullet with 2d art. I noticed a huge difference with 128gb… everything is a lot smoother in photoshop and it’s great to be able to have multiple files open with no effect on performance.

[@novacalibur3520]

@@TheDrawingCodex The 1TB and up versions of the M1 & M2 iPad Pro have 16gb of RAM. I've heard it's made quite the difference in performance.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

@@novacalibur3520 Awesome, Yeah I want to get a new high spec one and try it out. That sounds more promising. Thanks for pointing that out!

[@fahads_artwork]

I personally started my Animation journey through Flipaclip...Yes I drew whole day with my Thumb on a 6.7 inch mobile and I also created animations 1 minute long ...and did some commission work and bought myself a Pc qnd a cheap drawing tablet then after a year upgraded to Huion 15.6 inch display drawing tablet.....I personally believe If you love doing something , you can start doing it from your Mobile the one you're holding right now ...tools really not Matter , when your skill develops alot and for more professional work you need to upgrade.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

That’s a great story! Totally agree that we can scale up the tools over time. It all starts with the desire to create. Starting with rough tools also makes one appreciate how great the higher end tools are!

[@silvertongue3003]

You’re going to make me cry…. I just bought a old 10.5” iPad Pro from iStore because I didn’t know about screens like the ones you talking about, I live in South Africa and you just don’t get them here that much. I just found a video of a Xp pen device and then from there came across your videos, I wish I knew about them before I got the iPad. Like you say the iPad isn’t all that bad even though I’m using a older one, it’s just that it don’t have photoshop, I’m using procreate and Affinity Designer for vectors but I would have given anything if I could just use a full version of photoshop and illustrator.. Anyway thanks a lot for the videos, if I get the opportunity to buy a drawing tab again in the future I would definitely go with one of these pen displays

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Oh yeah that sucks. It's annoying when you find something just after purchasing something else. Don't get me wrong though. The iPad Pro is really good. Lots of great artists make great art on it! :)

[@LunaticOnPixiv]

I don't have a Wacom, but I do have the M4 13in iPad Pro with the Apple Pencil Pro. It's very good. It has 4096 pressure levels. I use Clip Studio Paint for the software. You can buy a Papilike screen protector to make it feel like you're drawing on paper. The new iPad Pro has a great display with a 2k resolution, 120 htz, and double AMOLED. It's worth the price. You can get a iPad Pro/Air 13in for around 1000-1500 euros, which is good value. You can take them anywhere and do many more things with them. Wacom Cintiq tablets are not mobile and always need a PC to function, which makes them more expensive.(edit i wrote this comment early in the video and i just realised 90% of what i said was said here)

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Yeah I have the same iPad you do now. It's great. I still prefer the cintiq and Photoshop for doing my work. But the portability of an iPad is hard to beat.

[@LunaticOnPixiv]

@@TheDrawingCodex yea id say its more of a preference if you wanna move around or sit on the same place for 9 hours straiht xD both are great tho

[@jaimeruiz7837]

I went with IPad Pro and I love it. Can watch KZbin on it, read comics, books, and play games. Take it on the go and I’m not a professional artists. I draw for me and that’s enough.

[@dansprogis4521]

Hey Tim, I've been a wacom user for 15 years, an ipad pro user for 3 years. Huion just released a new series of Kamvas pros, I picked up a 19" pro and i gotta say there's very little difference between the actual monitor and tablet performance. Considering the $1k price difference its worth checking out, esp on a budget or for new artists looking to move to a tablet display from a tablet.

[@SeanWickett]

I was looking at a new Huion, the 4k 27" that's available for preorder. I've never used anything other than a Wacom Cintiq (& Intuos) so how is the difference between a Cintiq and Kamvas?

[@phyrhed08]

I own both too. I always recommend a back up. Computers fail all the time.. my last resort is always Paper . ( for storyboards ).

[@EchoJ]

I’ve used both over the past 19yrs (started with Wacom, obviously), and at this point, I can’t imagine ever going back to a Wacom tablet. The only thing Wacom has on an iPad Pro at this point is screen size. If rumors are correct and Apple plans to release a larger screen iPad Pro, I could seriously see that eating into Wacom’s market share for anyone who isn’t using zBrush and Blender (although, now that programs like Final Cut Pro are coming to iPads, it wouldn’t shock me at all to see either or both come to iPads in the near future). Also, since most of the technical “issues” you mentioned have been solved by the 3rd party accessories market, I probably wouldn’t have mentioned them. Personally, I find it odd that you’ve got THREE Wacom tablets for your needs but think the iPad Pro couldn’t work for you. Seems like quite a bit of money to spend when the 12.9 iPad Pro connected to either a standalone display or a computer would accomplish the same thing at a fraction of the cost of ONE of those Cintiqs🤔 But hey, it was still interesting to get other folks’ perspectives on this topic👍🏾

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Thanks for your thoughts! I agree with much of that. I have way too many Cintiqs here for sure. I got a 32" one since this video was made... and honestly. using anything else just feels cramped and small. I can have so many things open at once. I want to get a new iPad and try it with external screen. Might be interesting if Apple does bring out a bigger one. There are a few major factors here... one is that buying into the iPad ecosystem is a bit of a leap. Apple tends to pump prices over time... They are not known for backwards compatibility. If I calculate new iPad Pros every few years the cost actually starts to get up there. The bigger one is not going to be cheaper. If anything breaks it's game over. Backing up serious data for files is a problem. As is backing up to the cloud. iPad seems fine for smaller illustrations here and there. But each monthly comic I create is 40-50GB of files. I need to move these around FAST. I need to export and make changes to text. Ideally on multiple files at once. Use case for instance just now... I have a workstation with 128GB of ram and a 32" Cintiq + 2x 28" secondary monitors. I have a bout 3-5 pages open at once that I am working on + multiple reference files (character sheets etc). I would say any one of these files would choke an iPad or not open at all. I then get an email saying I need to export a file which is 15000x9000 pixels into a few different formats. I open it up (file is 2GB) Save out multiple different versions. I then open them all up at once to double check everything... seems ok, I go straight back to work on my pages... keep in mind I have not closed any of the earlier files (because closing and reopening files = time/money down the drain). Computer runs fine. Exports quickly... etc etc. I can save those files in a folder... send someone a dropbox link via email. Go back to my pages... Let me know if I am wrong... but my understanding from using my iPad is that pretty much any of those actions is impossible right now. Even ignoring the fact that a single one of these files would not open on an iPad. The time I can save this way has paid for all of my workstation/cintiq 10 times over this year.

[@razrv3lc]

@@TheDrawingCodexif you’re buying anything at that price, you should be buying AppleCare+ to cover any accidental damage. I entirely shattered an iPad Pro and had it fully replaced for $40 a few years ago. You can get it for $10 a month now too so it’s more affordable where it used to be only a one time payment that lasted for 2 years but was a bigger upfront cost. I’ve always factored the cost of AppleCare+ into Apple products after that iPad Pro catastrophe lol

[@JohnVanderbeck]

I just want to say, on the "flexibility" argument.. You can use your iPad exactly like a Cintiq as a "monitor you can draw on" connected to Windows or Mac and use all the same applications you normally use on those.

[@peaceman5348]

I'm a beginner please guide me

[@ret-gob]

I like the no clutter mess of the iPad or the maneuverability of it. Then pencil seems more enjoyable to use aswell. I already have a Wacom, and am wondering if I should drop 1400 usd on an iPad Pro?

[@cakestealer5983]

Personally I wouldn’t recommend doing that. Maybe the XDR display is really important to you but I think the normal iPad screens are already pretty good. I mean sure if you’re wanting to use it for professional, color accurate, editing then maybe. But if you’re just doing some drawing or digital painting I don’t think spending that much is entirely necessary.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

If you just want something to do digital art/sketching in a simple form factor the iPad is amazing. I like the pro Apple stuff because in my experience the extra speed often means that they last a bit longer. They tend to slow down a bit less over time. The screens are good etc. But unless you are doing a lot of heavy work with large multi layer files in procreate… you probably won’t notice much of a speed difference.

[@AnonymousBosch]

Great review, didn’t disagree with a single word. Even with a protective screen I found drawing on an iPad ridiculously unsatisfying, the gamechanger for me was the board surround that you also mentioned. They’re worth consideration if you’ve already invested in an iPad and wish to improve your workflow. If you intend working exclusively at a desk I’d recommend the Sketchboard Pro 2, otherwise the AstroPad Darkboard is much lighter and flexible. Both brands are expensive given the materials used, so it’s also worth considering going the DIY route if you have the skills. I’ve got to say also, that every year that the gap between Wacom and their competitor products is narrowing, so it’s definitely worth considering one of those if you’re on a budget.

[@wRAAh]

When considering replacing my old Wacom pen display with a Cintiq Pro 24" 4K non-touch, I decided to try out a Huion 24" 4K pen display. I immediately went for the Huion, which only cost me half of what a Cintiq would set me back. With the saved money, I ordered a large iPad Pro, which I exclusively use as an extended display - never as an iPad. I take this and my MacBook with me everywhere I go, so I can work on the road. Couldn't be happier. BTW... I have nothing against Wacom; I enjoyed working on my old Cintiq for many trouble free years.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Awesome! Yeah I think your experience will be something that a lot of other people share soon. These new brands are creating great products for much better prices.

[@kameya87]

I got the huion 22in pro and I love it. I use it with my pc though

[@d1780174]

Thank-you for the video! Have you tried apps like nomad sculpt (3D art), Affinity suite (photoshop and Illustrator competitor). I have found with those the use of the iPad is unlimited. As for a larger screen - I have used airplay to my TV with great results! There is also a program called Astropad that allows you to use the iPad as a drawing tablet with you computer. I have not used that yet. If you give any of these a try it would be great to see your thoughts!

[@johnnymidnight2982]

I use the Astropad Luna with an M1 Mac Studio with the iPad as the tablet for P-shop and it works great. If you do this, make sure to plug the cable directly into the Mac (or whatever system you're using) so you don't get any latency or hiccups. Also, it's best to get a surface film to give the screen some tooth. To wit, Astropad is making some kind of cushioned holder for the iPad, but I haven't gotten that yet.

[@BarKeegan]

Also good point suggesting iPad for those starting out, less up front investment, and if you end up using it for pro jobs, can build towards a more versatile desktop

[@MrBracey100]

I gotta say for me, all your negatives about the iPad Pros are pluses. I’ll break it down for you. SIZE: Love that Im not bound to solely working at home. Yes Im one of those who does all my pro work on the ipad. I used to be a Wacom guy but before that I was a traditional guy and I think part of that plays into it. While as a comic artist I do miss the larger space provided by working on Blue Line comic pages, the ipad was an easy transition because its still the size of a descent sketch book. I dont have any issues with resting part of my hand on it any more than I did with a sketchbook. I dont need the extra real estate to be effective. SCREEN / PEN: I love the gliding feel vs the textured ipad, I dont find any loss in quality of stroke. This could be because I’ve worked with every imaginable type of artists tools: pencils, pens, brushes, air brushes, markers, sculpting tools, etc. I adapt very quickly to new devices. Plus I do not like textured screens or protectors because in my experience either the screen or protector get scratched and need to be replaced or the nib on the pen wears down and needs to be replaced. My apple pencil nibs have yet to wear down after years of use. I also dont feel like Im losing anything in terms of precision. Again this could just be experience on my part with multiple tools. MODIFICATIONS: I use a matte screen protector which Ive found lets me draw even in very brightly lit conditions because I dont have issues with reflections on my screen. My ipad is in an Otter Box with no built in screen protector and I often have a ipad/tablet cushion thing that functions like an easel for me. But like a sketch pad I can also rest it on the edge of a table or against my leg while sitting like a sketch pad. I’ve taken it with me to karaoke and restaurants. Perfect to get some work down while waiting in line at a busy eatery or when waiting my turns to sing or any place you need to wait like the DMV. In the end for me the portability combined with ipad’s amazing high rez screens and impressive ability to work have sealed the deal. On a side not I work in Clip Studio Paint (formerly Manga Studio). I was a photoshop guy and procreate is well great but when it comes to drawing and coloring I find CSP to just be the best thing since sliced bread. Its just target focussed on the type of work I do the most. The other programs are better for painting or lettering (heck photoshop can do bloody anything) but with my focus on illustration CSP has been my go to your years now.

[@caraashji]

I have a basic One Wacom which has no screen and is very small. I love it and find that i dont NEED a really fancy device with a screen. I have good eye hand coordination just to look at the computer screen. But it's still difficult to take around. It's definitely more portable than a cintique but I've been considering getting an ipad. Literally just to use as like a sketchbook. To take into university and to cafes or just wherever I am when I can't carry around my massive lap top which is extremely heavy

[@andrewtiller2725]

Heyyy... i have recently started looking for a art tablet. I'm 39 years old, and i have been drawing on paper since i was 5 years old, off and on. I know i have the potential for creativity. But I haven't sketched anything in years. So to fill that void of wanting to draw again which i find hard to get back into, so I started to colour (with pencil leds) and it is something that came naturally.

[@andrewtiller2725]

Like I said I been recently looking for a good tablet for expanding my creative talent by drawing and coloring digitally. I might not be the best artist, but I want the full experience. So please, if you or anyone have any suggestions for me on which art tablet to get , I'm all ears. Also can most tablets download programs or have access to A.i. creator's like midjourney or even transfer my art or any pictures from my phone over to one of these tablets?

[@YrjoPuska777]

First of all you can rest your arm on ipad screen, it detects that its a palm of your hand and not pen, and wont draw with the palm. Secondly, you should compare ipad used as a secondary monitor on a computer via sidecar, not as standalone workstation, since thats how you are using a drawing tablet also.

[@aniominous]

Ever since Sidecar Capability in iPad I have thoroughly enjoyed all Adobe workflow with the iPad. I recently tried to use this with Blender to see compatibility and it works great. I would say this would be the most reasonable choice if you already have access to a Mac. There is another app called Astropad which I believe is compatible with PC. You really can't beat the airdrop and sidecar in my opinion. To make this even more accessible, get a Mac laptop. Paper-like has worked great for me to nix the slide feel on the iPad but also, I have a light touch. this may not be ideal for heavy writers.

[@aniominous]

Edit: I paid only $400 on Facebook trading post for my iPad Pro 12.9.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Nice! Yeah I will have to look into the Sidecar aspect of how all of this works. Apple stuff seems to work well together and overcomes many of the technical hurdles (transferring anything from an iphone or ipad to a pc is a nightmare.... but airdrop to a mac is like magic). thanks for sharing your experience!

[@kameya87]

I have an m2 macbook pro from school and it still slows down for me. I still prefer my custom pc for graphic stuff. But I'm also more comfortable with android so I sold the iPad the school gave me and use Samsung tablets instead

[@FernandoChaves]

I have been teaching online for 14 years. Not art...medicine...I am a physician. Of course that includes creating "on the fly" charts and diagrams as well as artistic representations of anatomy, physiology, cell structures, biochemistry, histology, receptors, and more. If I use PowerPoints, they have only a title and I write or draw the content live. I am sure you know medical illustration is a profession and you might have heard of the great Frank Netter MD. There is no doctor alive on the planet that has not studied Netter and has his works on the shelf. I am no Netter, but I am a great teacher. I have always used Wacom, and have been using a 22 inch Cintiq for years. I built my own workstation to run it. I also do some video work. My daughter is an artist. She is 28 and last year I built her a multimonitor graphics workstation with a 22 inch Cintiq. Previously she had done a few pieces with a laptop but that's it. She primarily did water colors and mixed media. She is really exploring and expanding her creativity now. I never considered for one second anything other than a Cintiq for her, never once considered any Apple products. Before I was a doctor, I was an IT guy, Linux Sysadmin, and Vice President of IT. So I do know the tech side. Now that she has some event booths she will be doing, I am considering more portable options so she can work on art while she is covering her booth. She can paint, or she can use an electronic tablet. I am trying to convince her to use the tablet and mirror it on a large monitor so people can watch. Still looking at Wacom. I appreciate your video and opinions. You mostly confirmed my own opinions. Viewing comic books is not a valid use scenario to me. Recreation is an abuse of professional equipment, and is the number one way that is gets destroyed or has ID10T error. Students are "used to" using iPads and Macs because they were marketed to schools. It worked so well I have to get VERY forceful to get medical students to get rid of their Apple and get Windows computers and Android devices. They will ague "that's all we used in grade school and high school". Yes. And you used to wear diapers as well. Time to grow up.

[@chimnizzy]

I have a huion kamvas but it is simply used as a monitor since I got an iPad Pro. It simply can’t compete with the portability and convenience of the iPad. Even if I can achieve better results on the kamvas, I stretch my artistic muscles way more on the iPad.

[@ghio0311]

The Cintiqs are suitable for intricate and slow-paced tasks. Regardless of your PC's hardware and setup, sketching on Photoshop or CSP will be sluggish. Even with my Ryzen 9, DDR5 @ 6000, and a 4090, I still experience lag on these applications. 10 years ago that wasn't the case, but software has outpaced hardware to a noticeable degree. Comparatively, the iPad outperforms as a workstation. It serves my needs, ranging from game cover work to basic sketching. Procreate, in particular, is finely tuned for drawing and painting with no interruptions to your pace. As a fast artist, it's crucial for the hardware to keep up with my strokes. Therefore, I consider the iPad to be the best all-around workstation that offers value for your money. A big rig to keep up with a good cintiq will outprice the iPad by a looing stretch -JimboBox

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Yeah interesting. This is not my experience at all. Although I don’t doubt you are getting this result. For me: iPad is indeed snappy in feel, but will choke on any large files. Photoshop will slow down as well on large PSDs but is all about the machine running it as you say. DDR 5 and A 4090 will do almost nothing for PS. It’s mostly been about ram quantity, fast single core speed CPU, m.2 ssd, and scratch disk setup. iPad does seem to give way more reliable performance results though. Thanks guys your thoughts!

[@BenFrankarts]

The tech won’t make you a better artist but it’ll make you more efficient. My belief is that some artists will be more mobile while others will be better in the studio. I’m a bit of both. I’ve used a Mac desktop station since 97. Got the second gen iPad in 2011 once I found a decent capacitive stylus (the foam looking tips that imitated fingertips). After some research I got a pressure sensitive one (back then it was the Adonit Jot). I got used to using ArtRage, Procreate and ArtStudio and never looked back. The apps were affordable, I could draw anywhere at any time and didn’t need to drag cables and a laptop around when I had to balance work and family life. A Cintiq 12wx is a heavier kit than you’d want to remember. I value freedom of movement. Some may value larger screen space. That’s ok. I just get more bang for my buck with the iPad. Don’t get me wrong, I also own a late 2023 14 inch MacBook Pro M3 Max and run my iPad as added desktop for my Adobe Suite. So yes, they play well and yes, take the best of both worlds.

[@Loy_Otterton]

I think you brought up a ton of interesting points! This was definitely one of the best videos on the topic. Even if I already have a tablet for my pc and an ipad. I got my ipad mostly for when I am traveling, but I have found myself using it over my PC setup since I don't have to worry about plugging stuff in and clearing the desk space.

[@jomsies]

i have a neurological disability, so i can't make strokes from some angles. The way the ipad smoothly pinches, zooms and rotates without lag is so smooth and ergonomic. I got a huion tab last month and i just can't use it. Now it's just a handy usb-c monitor.

[@niefali]

I started with a Wacom tablet (no screen), used a smaller and a bigger one. At some point I got a Huion Camvas (the screen version). Huiob is still a lot cheaper than Wacom, and so far it does the job. I never had a Cintique or I pad so I cant really compare. Apple and Wacom are both expensive (overprized), but Apple in particular just causes a lot of problem when it comes to PC use - not beeing able to just plug it into my PC.

[@kidkante]

I have a Wacom Cintiq but stopped using it and stopped drawing in general. Tried to rekindle but all the wires and crap got me frustrated, plus the fact that CSP is hella technical, even though it's powerful. Bought an iPad Pro and procreate and now I draw every day.

[@kierahuskarl]

Thanks so much for the review! This is what really tipped me towards the Cintiq-- I've been doing digital art for 13 years, plenty of time to super picky about software and tactile things (like the screen bevel). Plus Photoshop is a very powerful editing tool on top of drawing, so the Cintiq saves you from exporting procreate files into PS anyways.

[@VanDavis]

I agree with you about the difference in screen "feel"...the smooth glass takes some adjustment or some screensaver modification if you're used to a more textured surface. But I simply CAN NOT understand someone who insists that Wacom styluses are more accurate than the Apple Pencil. I used an Intuos tablet for several years before I bought a Cintiq, and used the Cintiq for about a week before I returned it and used the money for my first iPad Pro. The difference in drawing lag, stylus tip to cursor off-set...everything just clicked for me much more naturally. Disclaimer, this is from an avowed PC and Android phone user...in most of my life, I avoid over-priced and over-hyped Apple products like the plague. But, in the case of these iPad Pros, I have to just swallow my pride and admit they have an overall great product.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Hey Van! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this here. I can try to make a video explaining the accuracy thing. But in the end it doesn't really matter. We are not talking about a major gap in the tool's ability. Whatever works for you is good!! The best way I can explain the difference... is that the Apple Pencil operates better when I am drawing with a lot of flow and emotion... it likes inertia and movement (fast strokes that it can clean up and smooth out) When I go slower with the Apple stuff it tends to result in a lot of wobble artifacts and becomes less predictable (Which leads me to guess that the hardware is being supported by a lot of software interpolation and support... same with Apple's Computational Photography). Starting and stopping a line is more challenging on the Ipad for instance. As is making the line end at precisely the right point. The Wacom ProPen 2 + 4k screen has a lot more space and detail to work with, and I feel that it is much more linear in the way it responds to pressure and movement. The same thing happens every time. And I can make a larger variety of strokes. It acts more like a real tool. Normally what happens in my experience is that the artist will adapt to both of these scenarios as I said... and we tend to avoid making lines with a tool if it's not good at it. I think Apple Pencil 2 and Procreate do a good job of acting more like we want a pencil to... there is interpolation on the strokes, it smooths some of it out and makes the line nice. The way Procreate builds up tone with the pencil tools is also much more natural. So the tool tends to feel good. It's doing a better job of overcoming that initial dislike/discomfort of rubber on glass feel that is inherent to all drawing screens. Wacom doesn't smooth the line and Photoshop doesn't build up tone nicely. It's a terrible tool to draw lines with... and requires a lot more adaptation. But again in my view it is more accurate :) I totally agree that the Apple stuff is good though. I like using Procreate and the Apple Pencil. It's much better for a lot of things than Photoshop. Hopefully that outlines my point a bit better. Hard to really show this type of thing. But that's why I feel it's more accurate.

[@runi2453]

@@TheDrawingCodex uhmm I really think I shouldn't drift far in this comment section. I plan to buy an ipad pro m1 11" instead of laptop for school and now all these comments are making me want to go with a laptop. But I just broke my phone(6 months old) and need a camera for takinng pictures which a laptop doesn't have so... I have a laptop but it's the oldschool type and is on its deathbed because for some reason after I broke my phone every gadget around me break. So I hope I will be fine with an ipad atleast in the first 2 years of college. Will it work? Cause I plan to study Mulimedia Arts. And thankfully its face to face again and I can probably use the pc's at uni.

[@johndough8115]

Drawing Lag, isnt from the Tablet. Its from your PC. Add more RAM. Close programs that do not need to be ran in the background. Potentially disable any Anti-Virus software, temporarily. Run system cleaners, and make sure you have enough room on your main hard drive. Most of the time, the lag is merely a lack of system Ram, which is easily upgraded. However, past that.. Many smaller sized PCs, actually have Laptop internals inside of them, to allow them to be that small. Laptop motherboards are FAR less powerful than a full sized PC motherboard and processor. Laptops are not only designed to be smaller.. but also, to use less power. As such, they use different chips and processors that are much less power hungry... and thus, cant compare to the amount of work they can perform, compared to a full desktop PC. Also, many of these laptops are so small, that HEAT is a big issue. Too much heat, and you CPU will over-heat, and cause great performance issues... as it will clock itself down, to avoid burning up. Heat isnt a major concern in a full sized PC, because it has plenty of cooling space. With a laptop, they not only limit performance to save power... but also, to keep the Heat levels down. A PC with On-Board video (built into the board), will not be as graphically as powerful as a PC that has a separate add-in video card. Even a cheap add-in video card, might make a big difference in video memory performance, compared to the onboard video chip. If your PC has old, buggy, or incorrect software DRIVERS... that could also effect your PCs performance. Sometimes Windows updates, can replace the correct video drivers, with something far more generic and far less effective. And or... your PC drivers may be outdated, buggy, or partially corrupted. Updating the drivers, can be a good idea. Excess heat, even with a PC, can cause performance issues. Use compressed air, to blow the dust out of your CPUs heat-sink cooler... as well as the rest of the PC. Make sure all fans are spinning freely, and fast. Over time, PCs fan bearing may start to wear, and stop functioning. Dust, hair..etc.. can slow a fan, reduce its performance, and or stop it completely. If your PC has a Virus, or various other bloat-ware... you may also have performance issues. Ive seen peoples PCs that had two different anti-virus programing installed on it, at the same time. This caused a massive performance problem. If your PC has some bad sectors in the Hard Drive.. it can cause stuttering, freezes, crashes, data losses, and more. A good was to test a device, is to run one of the lightest graphical drawing program... that has the bare minimal functionality. If that performs good... then you know its probably not the tablet itself. Usually, its the heavy duty programs, when you are drawing at a very high resolution, using many layers, and are trying to run brushes that have programmed effects to them. Again... most of which has to do with the amount of Ram that your PC has available to work with. If there isnt enough ram... it will cause serious performance issues... as it has to keep writing back and forth, between the ram and the hard drive.

[@minseokwon6484]

Just screen tablets generally give a lot of bad tension to your neck. But in my case, iPad pro was the worst in that case, with a small screen and terrible grip on the apple pencil. Also, the touch system when compared to the keyboard make it worse... So if you spend a lot of time working in one place please consider a non-screen tablet. :)

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Hey Minseo! Yeah that’s actually a really good point! that is probably worth making a video on in itself… The idea of what drawing method is the most ergonomic… I totally agree that while “unnatural “… The idea of being able to draw on an old school Wacom tablet with stylus where your hand is down on the table that you’re looking up (and your posture is straight), is actually a really really good ergonomic situation to be in. It can actually be useful to have a range of different things to draw on and use. If someone does want to use a drawing screen but they are having back issues a good option is to also have a normal Wacom stylus. Then only do the things you really need to do on the drawing screen…

[@laos85]

Every touch technology is worthless when it comes to serious stuff. Including gaming. That's why I don't gamd on smartphone

[@EmeraldVideosNL]

I've tried digital drawing only a handful of times so far. I got one of those screenless Wacom pads (for budget reasons). It functions great, and I use GIMP to line and colour my drawings, having the cursor seperated from the hand feels unnatural though. While I have wanted a drawing tablet for some time, I never purchased one because I have too many high budget hobbies as is, and I realised it would never work for me. I can't get myself, nor have the time, to sit in front of a screen for hours on end. Nothing beats just picking up a sketchbook, sitting down anywhere and draw whenever and wherever I like. Easy to put pick up and put down, cheap, no risk of it being stolen or an empty battery, and not as attractive for the kids to pick up and play with/destroy. 😅 I am glad though the the Drawing codex has taught me some techniques to improve my drawing on pc, I just need to figure out how to do it with the software/tools I have

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Right on! Nothing quite beats the feel of a traditional sketchbook. I often find that no matter how advanced the digital sketching tools get, it's always a lot better value and a much better experience to just go the old school route for drawing and sketching and doing basic things.

[@EmeraldVideosNL]

@@TheDrawingCodex 💜

[@peeceejunior]

I got a drawing board from AstroPad that gives me a desk (kinda) for easier drawing with the iPad on your lap or a desk. It offers that large 'bezel' you referenced for your hands and arms. It does make the iPad less portable, but its nice to use around the home. For the most part the 12.9" Pro works for me. I've heard too many bad things about Cintiq quality control to commit myself to that ecosystem. But obviously if you're doing this for a living and need to interface with software other people use in the production process, Wacom may be your only choice.

[@Madkingstoe]

I love my Wacom Cintiq and never thought I'd ever find a replacement, but over time my iPad went from being a sketching aid to becoming the primary tool I did most of my work on. I now use the Wacom so infrequently I'm wondering whether its worth keeping.

[@Tonabillity]

Exactly👍🏽 Especially with enhanced brushes, procreate can’t be beat for my particular style. The only point that doesn’t make sense is that you can’t draw on your iPad outside. I use it for plein air paintings all the time! LOL I have yet to see anyone sketching with a cintiq outside, plugged into a tree 🤷🏾

[@Tonabillity]

Even more importantly, my style has a humorous flair. Using the Wacom feels like laborious work, especially in Photoshop. It didn’t take long to realize that using Procreate is just plain fun! And the more fun I’m having the better my style flourishes. I’ve been having such a ball lately, that I almost feel guilty while using Procreate - - “ALMOST” that is…😜

[@Amidreamingnow]

I own both iPad and wacom tablets, Huion also. The quality is better than the Ipad i can't say that it isn't. But there is sommething about the ipad that makes it less complex than a full computer. I also think that your experience is clouding your opinion about the ipad, that doesn't mean that's the reality, yoou are one of the few that Don't like it.

[@richvanatte3947]

My Cintiq quit on me and my iPad Pro & iPencil took over and its all I use now as a professional artist. I do wish they made a larger iPad Pro. Otherwise, I’m fine.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

That sucks, I'm glad the ipad pro worked out. I always thought that one of the big dangers of going with a Cintiq is that if it dies the artist is in big trouble! (same with the ipad I guess). A huge iPad pro would be awesome :)

[@imNoveria]

I've seen people drawing in free android apps on phone with just their finger. (i could never lol) And their works look amazing. Thats enough proof that tools dont matter that much.

[@Cottontailtie]

Yup I’m stuck doing that until I can afford an iPad or tablet. I’ve been saving up and now I just need to choose which to get

[@kameya87]

I bought my kids Samsung tablets and they still use their fingers...

[@joaniebalonie707]

I have both. 27 inch cintiq and iPad Pro. I love both but I find myself reaching for my iPad more esp when I just wanna lay down and drown instead of air or stand

[@Rhutt258]

100 percent agree.. love my iPad Pro but it’s limited. But then again that’s what you pay for with a cintiq

[@greenpoprocket7965]

I tend to use my iPad more in the same sense I spend more time just sketching, but the Cintiq is the better tool. It'll also outlive the iPad by a long, long time.

[@tomd4748]

Wacom large tab is $499. iPad Pro is $1000+. Wacom plugs into your PC, and you can use with existing Photoshop installation, while you're going to have to get the gimped version of Pshop for iPad, and there's nowhere to rest your hand. A true artist can outdo you on a free scrap of paper, even if you have a $6000 oled screen, with perfect color accuracy, if you're a non-artist. No competition between Wacom and iPad.

[@Samuka3000]

That mic tho… gosh, feels so comfortable and the audio seems so good too.

[@lukecsuarezartistry8568]

I just hope Wacom releases a 120hz Cintiq with a fast response time some day, it would be the end game tablet.

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Yeah that would be good!

[@pastuh]

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 have 120hz Supports Wacom One pen and Staedtler Noris Digital pen

[@rfernandez1648]

I use a Wacom 27 at work and a Huion 16 2.5K, which is now under $500 at home, and I prefer my Huion. The 16” screen I feel is perfect, and for $1500 less it’s an easy choice. I tried to force the IPAD on myself but I could never get used to the slippery glass. I use it for fun sketching and to watch movies.

[@Worlds-Okayest-Employee]

I had a Huion 16, really liked it but it burnt out suddenly, it would no longer power on. I bought I it in hopes to do more creatively, and get an upgrade later. Overall the experience was good, but would appriciate a paper feel. I'm unsure to try it again, but it was a good experience. I was having difficulty with rotating the canvas organicly, I was using Krita and just got started. I didn't use it as much as I was planning, and it was difficult to set up my desk. If I did it again I might chose to get a larger drawing screen and use it as my main monitor.

[@rfernandez1648]

@@Worlds-Okayest-Employee thankfully I’ve had no issues at all. Hopefully it stays that way, but it’s funny because that is similar to what happened to my Wacom 16 pro. I sent it to Wacom then I sold it cause it was not the same

[@brendanschwartz2198]

The stripped down version on photoshop you get on the iPad is not great, bought one for 3D art and quickly realized that was mistake and I should have gone for a Wacom

[@trscsaeg]

The best drawing device I’ve found is the paper pack. You can get like 150 sheets. Get any pencil or pen you want and then draw away. I’ve never had to charge any of the sheets of paper or the pens or anything

[@TheDrawingCodex]

Right on! :) I normally much prefer a sketchbook if I am on the move.

[@SkywalkFPV]

How about using the surface pro? Windows can run the full Adobe suite and since you like that workflow which is understandable, why still recommend that clunky apple environment?! And or have you tried the Galaxy tab s9 ultra?

[@lifeisartTV]

I just purchased the Wacom Intuos Pro Large Graphics Tablet PTH860. I use the IPad pro with procreate. But found a good deal on the pro Large. Gonna start my son on it as he loves drawing as well. He's 10, but the earlier the better I guess. I still prefer pencil and paper/copic markers 😆 🤣 😂

[@Savorychicken41]

Comes down to the pen to me. Wacom just feels much more accurate and the light weight of the Wacom pen is a huge difference when you’re working for 14 hours a day like me. But ipad and Apple Pencil is good for fun, small package so you can sit on the couch and just have fun. For professional work Wacom is the way to go.

[@Chazzvc]

I got both, I can say the Cintiq is better. Mine is a 13HD. Larger screens will likely make your arm more tired over a long drawing session.

[@DarkSoulx7]

I'm not a professional artist. I hope to be one day. I bought a Samsung S8+ last year and the learning curve isn't nearly as bad as I thought. I can now draw anywhere and that makes me happy.

[@the_Googie]

To me right now Im using an iPad and have a literal 50 dollar graphicstablet for PS. I love the displayless tablets from Wacom or other firms. I MUCH prefer them and I used a 22"Cintiq before.

[@Apticx]

i love both and owned both but sold my cintiq pro 16 2-3 months after i got my ipad. i am not a professional artist and just do it for fun and personal projects and procreate does it just as much as any other software. the screen could be bigger but the colors and ppi resolution is great AND when i dont feel like drawing i just open a game and play or listen to music or watch youtube. all that on a battery that can last me a whole week. i think ipads are the best choice for occasional art and hobbyists and if you want to have a huge desktop setup then go for like a wacom or maybe even a huion kamvas (cheaper)

[@zuan1377]

I have a surface pro 8 and i love it, the only thing is that I'm still stuck having to sit on a table to be able to use the keyboard shortcuts. I use photoshop and CSP since I am a senior in college studying concept art and illustration. But the way the layout works... all the buttons and menus are constantly in my way, making the area i actually draw in really small. I also own my beautiful 24inch XP tablet, but once again I use that for when I'm working on freelance or assignment sitting 5+ hours on my desk. I'm debating buy the IPad solely because the procreate interface is so clean simple but it has all the tools i need. Feels less like work... idk should I?

[@TheDrawingCodex]

I find that the simple mode in CSP is similar in ease of use to procreate. But as of now I still think you need android or iOS for it to activate the simple mode which is super annoying. I have a huion studio 16 tablet that runs windows and it's definitely harder to use without a keyboard. I think the new m4 iPads should be pretty powerful and capable as a more laid back sketching device. That's normally how I use mine. It's definitely a better experience vs a windows tablet.

[@rushyit]

24 minutes and great time insvestment to listen to you! Thank you

[@TaTa-xd5yt]

I think my practices from traditional to digital doesn't transfer well, so I'm buying an iPad to study whenever I want. I already own a computer but sitting behind it all day has wrecked my body and I can't do all my art studies on it as well.

[@randommcranderson5155]

I have the largest ipad pro (12.9?) and a 16" cintiq. The screen size or accuracy of either don't bother me. The biggest issue is the apple pencil. The wacom pencil is made to fit my hand. It isn't ultra thin. It feels softer IN MY HAND. I can't even add a foam bit to the ipad pencil because it blocks using the buttons and obviously it cant magnetically attach to charge. So in the end to me it comes down to the ergonomics of the wacom pro pen 2. The apple pencil is just a failure compared to the wacom.