The 7 Best Drawing Apps for iPad in 2025

The iPad has become an essential tool for digital artists, thanks to its intuitive touch interface and compatibility with the Apple Pencil. Whether you’re a beginner sketching for fun or a professional artist working on high-end projects, the right drawing app can unlock limitless creative potential. But with so many apps available, how do you choose the one that suits your artistic style and needs?

Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. This blog will review the best iPad drawing apps to help you decide. From apps focused on realistic sketching to those designed for digital painting and animation, there’s something for everyone.

What to Look For in a Drawing App

Every artist has unique needs, but here are some general factors you should consider when selecting an iPad drawing app:

User Interface: Is the app easy to use? Does it have customizable workflows?
Brush Variety: Does the app include a variety of brushes that mimic real-world tools?
Apple Pencil Compatibility: How well does the app support pressure sensitivity and tilt features?
Export Options: Can you export your work in multiple formats like SVG, PNG, or PSD for further use?
Pricing: Is the app free, or does it require a subscription? Make sure it fits your budget and offers good value for money.

Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to explore! Here are our picks for the best iPad drawing apps in 2024.

1. Procreate

Procreate is hands-down one of the most popular drawing apps among digital artists. Designed exclusively for iPads, this app offers advanced features in an intuitive, easy-to-use package.

Key Features:
Over 200 customizable brushes
Powerful layering system
Time-lapse recording to showcase your process
Advanced animation capabilities
Why It’s Great: Procreate combines high-level performance with a one-time purchase model, making it a favorite for professionals and hobbyists alike. Its ability to handle both quick sketches and complex digital paintings gives it unmatched versatility.
Price: $12.99 (one-time purchase)

2. Adobe Fresco

If you’re looking for a free app that offers fun yet professional tools for sketching, Adobe Fresco might just be your go-to.

Key Features:
A vast library of brushes, including live watercolor and oil brushes
Seamless integration with Adobe Creative Cloud for cross-platform functionality
Intuitive interface tailored for tablet users
Why It’s Great: Fresco shines with its live brushes, which allow you to create realistic watercolors and oils that behave just like their physical counterparts. It’s perfect for experimental and expressive painters.
Price: Free with premium features available via subscription at $9.99/month

3. Clip Studio Paint

Clip Studio Paint is ideal for illustrators, comic artists, and animators. Its extensive features make it a powerhouse for detail-heavy work.

Key Features:
Specialized tools for creating comics and manga, including speech bubbles and perspective rulers
Full-featured animation tools
Extensive brush library
Why It’s Great: Clip Studio Paint is a dream for comic creators thanks to its manga-focused features. Plus, the ability to toggle between desktop and iPad versions makes workflow seamless.
Price: Free trial available; $4.49/month

4. Affinity Designer

While primarily known as a graphic design tool, Affinity Designer is also an incredible drawing app for vector illustrations and precise linework.

Key Features:
Combines raster and vector tools in one app
Infinite layering with advanced layer effects
Non-destructive editing
Why It’s Great: Affinity Designer’s vector support makes it ideal for graphic illustrators. If you work on logos, marketing materials, or detailed architectural drawings, this is the app for you.
Price: $21.99 (one-time purchase)

5. ArtRage

ArtRage is perfect for artists who want their digital drawings to feel as traditional as possible. It offers realism that is hard to match.

Key Features:
Tools that mimic paint texture and paper grain
Intuitive color blending
Easy-to-use interface with no unnecessary distractions
Why It’s Great: ArtRage is a unique app that focuses on replicating real-world painting tools like oils, watercolors, and pastels. It’s great for artists who love the organic feel of traditional art but want the convenience of digital tools.
Price: $4.99

6. Concepts

Concepts is not just a drawing app—it’s a workspace for architects, designers, and visual thinkers.

Key Features:
Infinite canvas perfect for brainstorming or large-scale designs
Precision drawing tools for industrial design
Flexible vector-based workflow
Why It’s Great: Its precision tools make it an incredible app for creating details, from sketches of interior designs to complex blueprints. If you’re working on professional design projects, Concepts will make your life easier.
Price: Free with in-app purchases starting at $4.99/month

7. Sketchbook by Autodesk

Autodesk Sketchbook is a user-friendly app loved by beginners and seasoned artists. It delivers professional tools in a polished, no-frills interface.

Key Features:
A wide array of brushes and pencils
Responsive interface with no lag
Layer blending and pro-grade color tools
Why It’s Great: Sketchbook is like having your own digital art studio that fits in your hand—perfect for sketching anywhere, anytime. With its responsive interface, you’ll have no trouble creating detailed concepts or quick doodles.
Price: Free

Which App Should You Choose?

Still unsure? Here’s a quick breakdown based on your needs:

Best for Beginners: Autodesk Sketchbook
Best Overall: Procreate
Best for Vector Illustration: Affinity Designer
Best for Comic Artists: Clip Studio Paint
Best for Watercolor and Oil Painting: Adobe Fresco

Transform Your Artistic Journey Today

Choosing the right app can make a world of difference in your digital art experience. Whether you’re sketching for fun or creating professional designs, these apps empower you to bring your creative vision to life.

Take the next step and explore the app that resonates with your artistic goals. And remember, the best way to find your favorite is by experimenting!