Entering 2026, the choice isn’t just about power anymore – it’s about value. With the M4 iPad Pro now fully established and the Air M2 dropping in price, the ‘best’ iPad for artists depends entirely on whether you need the Tandem OLED screen for color accuracy.
We reviewed the leading options and identified the iPads that truly stand out. Whether you draw for clients or rely on an iPad as a personal creative tool, the picks below suit every type of artist.
How We Chose the Best iPads for Drawing
We included only iPads that offer enough power, screen quality, and Apple Pencil compatibility to support real creative work. Each model had to provide artist features without extra cost, features such as high refresh rates, accurate color, and solid storage options.
We tested every iPad on this list with Apple Pencil support. Each one allowed artists to sketch concepts, create detailed illustrations, and export files. We also checked stability, battery endurance, storage capacity, and accessory support.
To keep results objective, we rated each iPad using five key metrics:
- Display quality – How well the screen shows true color, detail, and brightness.
- Stylus precision – Natural tilt, pressure sensitivity, and latency feel.
- Performance – How well the device runs large Procreate canvases or many layers without slowdown.
- Ease of use – Comfortable, the overall experience feels comfortable during long creative work.
- Value for artists – Whether the cost justifies professional-level functionality.
We also considered factors such as storage tiers, refresh rate, and long-term support. Models that lacked Apple Pencil features, lagged under pressure, or offered too little storage for serious artists did not make the list.
Our tests used Procreate, as it remains one of the most popular art apps on iPad; just scroll through Reddit discussions and you’ll see most artists swear by it. That said, if you prefer another art app, this list still applies, because the requirements for display quality, performance, and stylus precision remain nearly the same across all creative tools.
The result is a clear, tested list of the best iPads for Procreate in 2025 that support real creative work.
Top 5 Best iPads in 2025
Some iPads excel at pro-level art with large OLED displays and Pencil Pro support, while others stand out with portability, value, or entry-level price. Each pick below highlights strengths, limits, cost notes, and overall value for artists.
We present our own selection of five models that we consider the strongest options in 2025. Each device receives a rating on a five-point scale across the categories described above. As you will notice, no score falls below three stars, which means every iPad on this list earns our full recommendation.
Every model below runs on current iPadOS and supports Apple Pencil.
1. iPad Pro M4
We placed the iPad Pro M4 first because it turns the iPad into a full creative studio. The OLED Ultra Retina XDR screen delivers perfect contrast and brightness, while the M4 chip with 16 GB RAM provides unmatched speed for detailed art. The Apple Pencil Pro feels precise and natural, close to a real pen on paper.
Interface: The 120 Hz ProMotion display shows strokes instantly. Multitasking tools allow quick jumps between Procreate and other apps. Pencil shortcuts give artists complete control.
What you get: Choice between 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, storage up to 2 TB, and full Apple Pencil Pro features such as barrel roll, tilt, and haptic feedback.
Our score:
- Display quality: ★★★★★
- Stylus precision: ★★★★★
- Performance: ★★★★★
- Ease of use: ★★★★★
- Value for artists: ★★★★☆
Price: New models start at $999 (11-inch) and $1,299 (13-inch). Refurbished options often sell for $700-$800, with a top-tier performance at a lower cost.
Final thoughts: The Pro M4 stands as the most powerful iPad in 2025. It costs more than any other model, but for professional artists, it secures the highest standard of creative freedom.
Grab the iPad Pro M4 here 👈
2. iPad 10th Gen
This iPad holds the second spot because it lowers the barrier for anyone who wants to begin drawing digitally. The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina screen looks bright, and the A14 Bionic chip keeps Procreate functional for sketches, illustrations, and casual projects. This is the best iPad for drawing Procreate on a budget.
Interface: The non-laminated display creates a slight gap between the Pencil tip and screen, but performance remains steady. iPadOS tools remain simple and beginner-friendly.
What you get: Storage options at 64 GB or 256 GB, first-generation Apple Pencil support, and four bright color choices.
Our score:
- Display quality: ★★★☆☆
- Stylus precision: ★★★☆☆
- Performance: ★★★★☆
- Ease of use: ★★★★☆
- Value for artists: ★★★★★
Price: New units sell for $329-$349, with variation by storage. Certified refurbished versions are available from $269, which makes this the cheapest iPad for Procreate.
Final thoughts: For newcomers, the iPad 10th Gen offers the easiest way to access Procreate. However, the 64 GB version feels too limited for serious use, since storage fills up fast. That means you either clear space manually regularly or rely on iPad cleaners to maintain enough free capacity. Even on larger 128 GB or 256 GB models, Procreate and similar apps create heavy files that can exhaust storage sooner than expected. This is why it makes sense to use a free tool such as Clever Cleaner, which removes unnecessary items from the gallery and frees space for projects that matter.
Grab the iPad 10th Gen here 👈
3. iPad Mini 7
Third on our list, the iPad Mini 7 proves that a small frame can still deliver professional power. The 8.3-inch 2K Liquid Retina display shows vivid detail, while the A17 Pro chip and 8 GB RAM keep Procreate responsive. For anyone who needs an iPad with Procreate that fits in one hand, the Mini 7 stands out.
Interface: The laminated display with anti-reflective coating shows precise strokes. One-handed use feels natural, and quick gestures remain easy to control.
What you get: Lightweight body, travel-ready size, full Apple Pencil Pro support, and storage options up to 512 GB.
Our score:
- Display quality: ★★★★☆
- Stylus precision: ★★★★★
- Performance: ★★★★☆
- Ease of use: ★★★★★
- Value for artists: ★★★★☆
Price: The base Wi-Fi model begins at $449. Seasonal deals and back-to-school promotions often cut the price to around $349, making it more affordable.
Final thoughts: The Mini 7 works best as a secondary iPad for Procreate or for travel. The compact screen limits complex brushwork, but mobility makes it an excellent addition to any artist’s toolkit.
Grab the iPad Mini 7 here 👈
4. iPad Air M3
The iPad Air M3 takes fourth place thanks to strong power at a mid-range cost. The M3 chip brings performance close to older Pro models, and the 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina screen shows bright, sharp visuals. With Apple Pencil Pro support, the Air M3 provides professional features without the premium price of the Pro.
Interface: The 60 Hz display shows lines clearly, though less fluid than the 120 Hz ProMotion panel. iPadOS tools remain quick to access, and Pencil Pro gestures add extra control.
What you get: Two size choices, storage from 128 GB to 1 TB, and Pencil Pro features such as tilt, pressure, and barrel roll.
Our score:
- Display quality: ★★★★☆
- Stylus precision: ★★★★☆
- Performance: ★★★★☆
- Ease of use: ★★★★☆
- Value for artists: ★★★★★
Price: The 11-inch model starts at $599, while the 13-inch costs $799. Sales frequently drop the 11-inch version to $449.
Final thoughts: The Air M3 stands as the best value option for most artists. It balances cost with features and provides a professional experience without the high price of the Pro.
Grab the iPad Air M3 here 👈
5. Older iPad Pro or Air
The iPad Pro (2021–2022) and iPad Air M1/M2 rank fifth because they remain capable tools while staying budget-friendly. The M1 and M2 chips handle Procreate with ease, and Apple Pencil 2 still ensures precise control.
Interface: Displays remain sharp and fluid, though without the new Pencil Pro gestures. The 120 Hz ProMotion panels on many Pro models still stand as excellent choices for smooth artwork.
What you get: Reliable performance, refurbished or used pricing, Apple Pencil 2 compatibility, and storage tiers from 128 GB upward.
Our score:
- Display quality: ★★★★☆
- Stylus precision: ★★★★☆
- Performance: ★★★★☆
- Ease of use: ★★★★☆
- Value for artists: ★★★★★
Price: Refurbished M1 and M2 models typically cost $500-$800, with variation based on size and storage, while they still deliver excellent Procreate performance.
Final thoughts: A smart pick for budget-conscious artists who want an iPad for Procreate without paying for the latest release. Older Pro and Air models remain highly capable for professional use.
Grab the iPad Air M2 here 👈
Final Verdict
We cannot name a single iPad as the absolute best for Procreate in 2025, because each model shines in different ways. What matters most is how well a device matches your budget, workflow, and creative priorities. To help you choose faster, here’s a quick guide:
- On a tight budget: Pick the iPad 10th Gen – the most affordable way to start art with Procreate.
- Display quality is your top priority: Go for the iPad Pro M4, with its OLED Ultra Retina XDR panel and 120 Hz refresh rate.
- Balanced value matters most: Choose the iPad Air M3, which combines modern performance and Pencil Pro support at a mid-range cost.
- Maximum portability is key: Select the iPad Mini 7, light and compact, while still powerful enough for Procreate.
- You want strong performance at a lower cost: Consider an older iPad Pro or Air (M1/M2), which still runs Procreate smoothly and is widely available refurbished.
With this guide, you spend less time on spec comparisons and more time on the iPad that matches your creative style. Each model on this list has earned high marks, so whichever you choose, you will be ready to create confidently in Procreate.
And if you’re looking for some brushes, here are the 5 Best Procreate Sketch Brushes.
You might also like: 12 Essential Digital Art Tips For New Artists! 👈
FAQ
Which iPad do artists recommend for Procreate?
Many artists recommend the iPad Mini 7 for its portability and surprising power. Users note that it supports a high number of layers and remains easy to carry, making it a strong option for sketching on the go.
Do I need an M-series chip for Procreate?
Procreate runs on older A-series chips, but artists confirm that M-series models allow more layers and faster response. In discussions on Reddit, many creators stress that M-series chips give smoother performance with large canvases.
How much storage do I need for Procreate?
Most artists agree that 128 GB is the safe minimum. Larger files, custom brushes, and animation projects can fill space quickly.
Patricia Caldeira is the main writer here at Don Corgi. She's an art teacher with over 20.000 happy students across many platforms and courses!
Enjoy your stay and as always:
Keep on drawing!
Patricia’s courses have enrolled 22 000+ students around the world, in platforms such as Udemy, Skillshare, Gumroad and more.
