Best iPad for Procreate in 2024

Digital art has become increasingly popular in recent years, and one of the most popular digital art tools is Procreate. Procreate is a powerful digital art app that allows artists to create stunning illustrations, paintings, and designs on their iPads. However, to get the most out of Procreate, you need the right iPad. In this article, we will be discussing the best iPad for Procreate.

When it comes to choosing an iPad for Procreate, there are a few things you should consider. First and foremost, you want an iPad that has a large, high-resolution screen. This will allow you to see your artwork in great detail and make it easier to work on intricate designs. You also want an iPad that has a fast processor and plenty of storage space, as Procreate can be quite demanding on your device.

After researching and testing several iPads, we have identified the top three iPads for Procreate. These iPads have the features and specifications necessary to make the most of Procreate and create stunning digital art. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best iPad for Procreate.

Best iPads for Procreate

We understand that finding the right iPad for Procreate can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available in the market. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best iPads for Procreate. Whether you’re a professional artist or just starting out, our list has something for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best iPads for Procreate.

1) Apple iPad (10th Generation)

If you’re looking for a tablet that can handle all your creative needs, the Apple iPad (10th Generation) is a great choice.

Pros

• The A14 Bionic chip is incredibly powerful and makes multitasking a breeze.
• The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display is stunning and perfect for detailed work.
• The Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio are great accessories that make using the iPad even more versatile.

Cons

• The storage options are limited to 64GB or 256GB, which may not be enough for some users.
• The Magic Keyboard Folio and Apple Pencil are sold separately, which can be expensive.
• The front camera placement may take some getting used to for those used to traditional iPad designs.

We’ve been using the Apple iPad (10th Generation) for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its performance. The A14 Bionic chip is incredibly fast and allows us to easily switch between multiple apps without any lag. The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display is bright and clear, making it easy to see all the details in our artwork.

We also love the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio. The Apple Pencil is incredibly responsive and makes drawing and note-taking a breeze. The Magic Keyboard Folio is a great accessory that turns the iPad into a laptop-like device, making it easy to type up documents or emails on the go.

However, the storage options are limited to 64GB or 256GB, which may not be enough for some users. Additionally, the Magic Keyboard Folio and Apple Pencil are sold separately, which can add up to a significant expense. Finally, the front camera placement may take some getting used to for those used to traditional iPad designs.

Overall, if you’re looking for a tablet that can handle all your creative needs, the Apple iPad (10th Generation) is a great choice. Its powerful performance and versatile accessories make it a great investment for artists and professionals alike.

2) Apple iPad Late 2019, 10.2-Inch, Wi-Fi, 32GB Gold (Renewed) 32GB Wi-Fi Gold

If you’re looking for an affordable option for digital art, the Apple iPad Late 2019 is a great choice.

Pros

• The 10.2-inch Retina display is perfect for creating detailed artwork.
• The A10 Fusion chip provides smooth performance and allows for multitasking.
• The Touch ID fingerprint sensor provides easy and secure access to the device.

Cons

• The 8MP back camera and 1.2MP FaceTime HD front camera are not the best for photography.
• The Lightning connector for charging and accessories can be inconvenient for those used to USB-C.
• The 32GB storage capacity may not be enough for those who need to store large files or apps.

We found that the Apple iPad Late 2019 was a reliable and efficient device for digital art creation. The Retina display provided clear and vibrant colors, making it easy to see details in our artwork. The A10 Fusion chip allowed us to run multiple apps at once without any lag. The Touch ID fingerprint sensor was a convenient and secure way to unlock the device.

However, the cameras on the iPad were not the best for photography. The back camera produced decent photos in good lighting, but struggled in low light situations. The front camera was suitable for video calls but not for high-quality selfies. Additionally, the Lightning connector can be inconvenient for those who are used to USB-C, and the 32GB storage capacity may not be enough for some users.

Overall, we think that the Apple iPad Late 2019 is a great option for those looking for an affordable device for digital art creation. Its Retina display, A10 Fusion chip, and Touch ID fingerprint sensor make it a reliable and efficient device. However, its cameras and storage capacity may not be suitable for everyone.

3) Doohoeek Backlit Bluetooth Keypad for iPad Procreate, Rechargeable Keyboard for Procreate and Drawing Shortcuts for iPad and Graphic Tablets, Space Grey For Procreate-Grey

If you’re looking for an affordable and portable keyboard to use with your iPad Pro, the Doohoeek Backlit Bluetooth Keypad might be a great choice for you.

Pros

• The shortcut keys make it easy to use Procreate without having to navigate through on-screen menus.
• The backlit keys are great for working in any lighting environment.
• The portable and sturdy design makes it easy to take on the go.

Cons

• The “Eyedropper” shortcut keys don’t work with iPad OS 17 or later.
• The battery life may vary based on use and computing conditions.
• It’s missing a rotate tool button and a deselect button.

We’ve been using the Doohoeek Backlit Bluetooth Keypad for a few weeks now and we’ve found it to be a great addition to our iPad Pro setup. The shortcut keys are a game changer, allowing us to work more efficiently and without having to navigate through on-screen menus. The backlit keys are also a great feature, making it easy to work in any lighting environment.

The portable and sturdy design is also a big plus. We’ve taken it with us on the go and it’s held up well. It’s made with high quality ABS material that keeps it from falling and scratching.

However, we did find that the “Eyedropper” shortcut keys don’t work with iPad OS 17 or later, which was a bit of a disappointment. Additionally, the battery life may vary based on use and computing conditions, so keep that in mind. Lastly, it’s missing a rotate tool button and a deselect button, which may be important to some users.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and portable keyboard to use with Procreate on your iPad Pro, the Doohoeek Backlit Bluetooth Keypad is definitely worth considering.

4) AOIKTYE Procreate Keyboard

If you’re an artist looking for a wireless keyboard for Procreate, the AOIKTYE Procreate Keyboard is worth considering.

Pros

• The keyboard has over 20 shortcut functions, which makes drawing with Procreate more efficient and enjoyable.
• The built-in 250mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery lasts up to 2 hours on a full charge, and up to 84 hours without interruption.
• The keyboard is designed to be ergonomic, which makes it comfortable to use for extended periods of time.

Cons

• The keyboard is only compatible with Procreate and a few other painting software, such as Painter, AI, SAI, CSP, and PS.
• The keyboard backlighting only supports a single color.
• The keyboard is only available in black.

The AOIKTYE Procreate Keyboard is a great addition to any artist’s toolkit. The keyboard has over 20 shortcut functions, which makes drawing with Procreate more efficient and enjoyable. The built-in 250mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery lasts up to 2 hours on a full charge, and up to 84 hours without interruption, which means you can work for extended periods of time without worrying about the battery life. The keyboard is also designed to be ergonomic, which makes it comfortable to use for extended periods of time.

However, the keyboard is only compatible with Procreate and a few other painting software, such as Painter, AI, SAI, CSP, and PS. If you use other software, you won’t be able to take advantage of the keyboard’s shortcut functions. Additionally, the keyboard backlighting only supports a single color, which may be a deal-breaker for some artists. Lastly, the keyboard is only available in black, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

In summary, if you’re an artist who uses Procreate and a few other painting software, the AOIKTYE Procreate Keyboard is a great investment. The keyboard’s shortcut functions, long battery life, and ergonomic design make it a valuable tool for any artist.

5) Frunsi Wireless Keyboard for Procreate 7 Colors Backlit, Wireless Shortcut Drawing Keyboard for iPad, Graphics Tablet, Type-C Charging & Long Standby Time, Procreate Rechargeable Keyboard Starry White

If you’re looking for a wireless keyboard that is designed for Mac OS/iOS users and is perfectly matched to iPad, MacBook, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Air, then the Frunsi Wireless Keyboard for Procreate might be the perfect fit for you.

Pros

• Hassle-free and efficient work with this pen tablet
• Ergonomic wrist rest for reduced fatigue during high-intensity creative work
• Strong connection up to 5m and clutter-free workspace with stable BT 5.1 connection

Cons

• Active Color picker tool does not work
• Some users have reported difficulty with re-mapping the programmable buttons
• A few users have reported the keyboard dying after only a few weeks of use

We’ve had the chance to try out this wireless keyboard for Procreate, and we’re impressed with its design and functionality. The keyboard is designed with standard keys you use the most on Mac/iOS to give you instant access to your favorite shortcuts, making your work more efficient and hassle-free.

The ergonomic wrist rest is a great feature that can reduce the fatigue of high-intensity creative work, allowing you to work for longer periods without discomfort. The stable BT 5.1 connection is another great feature that allows you to easily connect the wireless keyboard to your Mac/iOS devices wirelessly, offering a strong connection up to 5m and clutter-free workspace.

One of the best things about this keyboard is that it is rechargeable, so you don’t need to worry about replacing batteries. The built-in rechargeable battery ensures continuous working for about 220 hours. The keyboard is also designed for Mac OS/iOS users, solving a lot of trouble with numeric keyboards when entering data.

Overall, we recommend the Frunsi Wireless Keyboard for Procreate for anyone who is looking for a wireless keyboard that is designed for Mac OS/iOS users and is perfectly matched to iPad, MacBook, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Air. It’s simple and stylish design, and wireless connectivity make it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to improve their productivity when working with Procreate.

6) Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch, 3rd Generation – Wi-Fi, 256GB – Space Gray (Renewed)

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for your Procreate needs, the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch, 3rd Generation – Wi-Fi, 256GB – Space Gray (Renewed) might just be the one for you.

Pros

• The 12.9-inch edge-to-edge Liquid Retina display with Promotion, true Tone, and wide Color provides an immersive drawing experience.
• The A12X Bionic chip with Neural Engine ensures smooth and fast performance, perfect for running Procreate and other creative apps.
• The 12MP back camera and 7MP True Depth front camera allows you to capture high-quality photos and videos of your artwork.

Cons

• The renewed product might not be in brand new condition and may have minor cosmetic imperfections.
• The battery life may not be as long as the newer models.
• The USB-C connector might not be compatible with some older accessories.

We got our hands on the renewed iPad Pro and were pleasantly surprised by its performance. The display is stunning, and we were able to create detailed artwork with ease. The A12X chip ensures that there was no lag or delay in running Procreate, even with multiple layers and effects. The cameras also exceeded our expectations, allowing us to capture our artwork in high-quality photos and videos.

However, we did notice some minor cosmetic imperfections, such as small scratches on the back of the iPad. Additionally, the battery life wasn’t as long as some of the newer models, but it still lasted us a full day of use. We also had to purchase a separate USB-C adapter to use some of our older accessories, which was a bit of an inconvenience.

Overall, we would recommend the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch, 3rd Generation – Wi-Fi, 256GB – Space Gray (Renewed) to anyone looking for a budget-friendly option for their Procreate needs. It’s a great value for its performance and features, and the minor cosmetic imperfections are a small price to pay for the savings.

7) SurnQiee Bluetooth Keypad

If you are looking for a wireless keypad that can help you work quickly and efficiently on Procreate, then the SurnQiee Bluetooth Keypad is a great option.

Pros

• The shortcut keys allow you to quickly access the most frequently used functions on Procreate, which can save you time and increase your productivity.
• The ergonomic design of the keypad can help reduce fatigue and make it easier to work for longer periods of time.
• The wireless connection technology is stable and can easily connect to your IOS device, which makes it convenient to use.

Cons

• The eyedropper key doesn’t work due to recent changes in the way IOS handles the ALT key, which can be a bit frustrating for some users.
• The keypad is relatively small, which may not be ideal for those with larger hands.
• The price point is a bit higher than some other wireless keypads on the market.

Overall, the SurnQiee Bluetooth Keypad is a great option for those who are serious about using Procreate on their iPad. The shortcut keys and ergonomic design make it a great tool for digital artists, and the wireless connection technology makes it convenient to use. However, the eyedropper key issue and higher price point may be a drawback for some users.

8) Dlinda Bluetooth Procreate Keyboard

If you’re looking for an affordable and functional procreate keyboard, the Dlinda Bluetooth Procreate Keyboard is a great option.

Pros

• The 34 accessible shortcut keys make it easy to perform common operations faster on the iPad, speed up the workflow of Procreate, and boost creativity.
• The backlit design with 7 colors and 3 brightness levels is suitable for any lighting environment, day or night, to match your creativity.
• The rechargeable battery supports 220 hours of working time (backlit off) and 60 days of standby, making it a long-lasting and convenient option.

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with the keyboard after a few weeks of use, such as keys not working and losing functions such as keyboard brightness and color switcher.

We’ve found the Dlinda Bluetooth Procreate Keyboard to be a lightweight, slim, and portable option made of durable aluminum alloy that won’t fade or lose paint. The built-in stable wireless Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy to connect to your Mac/IOS devices within 10 meters.

Overall, we recommend the Dlinda Bluetooth Procreate Keyboard for anyone looking for an affordable and functional procreate keyboard to boost their creativity and productivity.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best iPad for Procreate, there are a few factors to consider. We’ve compiled a list of features to look for to help you make an informed decision.

Display

The display is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an iPad for Procreate. Look for a high-resolution display with accurate color reproduction and good brightness levels. A larger screen size can also be beneficial for creating detailed artwork.

Processing Power

Procreate is a powerful app that requires a lot of processing power to run smoothly. Look for an iPad with a fast processor and plenty of RAM to ensure a lag-free experience.

Storage

Procreate files can take up a lot of space, so it’s important to have enough storage on your iPad. Look for an iPad with at least 64GB of storage, but if you plan on creating a lot of artwork, consider a model with 128GB or more.

Apple Pencil Compatibility

The Apple Pencil is a crucial tool for digital artists using Procreate. Look for an iPad that is compatible with the Apple Pencil for the best drawing experience.

Battery Life

Creating artwork can be a time-consuming process, so it’s important to have an iPad with a long battery life. Look for a model with at least 10 hours of battery life to ensure you can work uninterrupted.

In summary, when choosing the best iPad for Procreate, look for a model with a high-resolution display, fast processor, plenty of storage, Apple Pencil compatibility, and a long battery life. By considering these factors, you can find an iPad that will meet your artistic needs and help you create stunning digital artwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which iPad models are compatible with the Apple Pencil for use with Procreate?

All iPad models that support the first-generation Apple Pencil and the second-generation Apple Pencil are compatible with Procreate. This includes the iPad Pro (all generations), iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad (6th and 7th generation), and iPad Mini (5th generation).

What are the minimum hardware requirements for running Procreate smoothly?

Procreate requires an iPad running iOS 13.2 or later, with at least 2GB of RAM and an A10 Fusion chip or better. However, for optimal performance, we recommend using an iPad with at least 4GB of RAM and an A12X Bionic chip or better.

How does the iPad Air compare to the iPad Pro for artists using Procreate?

The iPad Air (3rd generation) is a great option for artists using Procreate who want a powerful device at a lower price point than the iPad Pro. The iPad Air has a 10.5-inch display, supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, and has an A12 Bionic chip. However, the iPad Pro (all generations) has a larger display, supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, and has more powerful A12X or A12Z Bionic chips.

What are the cost-effective iPad options for beginners to use with Procreate?

The iPad (6th and 7th generation) and the iPad Mini (5th generation) are both cost-effective options for beginners to use with Procreate. They both support the first-generation Apple Pencil and have A10 Fusion chips. While they may not have the same processing power as the higher-end iPad models, they are still capable of running Procreate smoothly.

Can the latest iPad model enhance the experience of Procreate compared to older versions?

The latest iPad models, such as the iPad Pro (4th generation) and the iPad Air (4th generation), have more powerful A12Z and A14 Bionic chips, respectively, which can enhance the performance of Procreate. Additionally, the latest iPad models support the second-generation Apple Pencil, which offers improved precision and responsiveness compared to the first-generation Apple Pencil.

Are there significant performance differences between the standard iPad and the iPad Pro for Procreate users?

While the standard iPad (6th and 7th generation) may not have the same processing power as the iPad Pro (all generations), it is still capable of running Procreate smoothly. However, the iPad Pro has more powerful A12X or A12Z Bionic chips and supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, which can offer improved performance and precision for Procreate users who require more advanced features.