Procreate has completely changed how digital artists work. Whether you sketch casually on weekends or illustrate professionally for clients, finding the right iPad makes all the difference in your creative flow. I have spent months testing different iPad models with Procreate to figure out which ones truly deliver the best experience for digital art.
Here is the one thing you need to know right away: Procreate is an iPad-exclusive app. You cannot run it on Android tablets, Samsung Galaxy Tabs, or any non-Apple device. So when we talk about the best tablets for Procreate, we are exclusively looking at iPads. This narrows things down considerably, but Apple’s lineup is still wide enough to cause decision paralysis.
Our team tested everything from the budget-friendly iPad A16 to the powerhouse iPad Pro 13-inch with the M5 chip. We looked at layer limits, Apple Pencil compatibility, display quality, and real-world Procreate performance. We also explored renewed and refurbished options for artists who want more power without the premium price tag. If you want to dive deeper into iPad art beyond just Procreate, check out our comprehensive iPad drawing guide for additional recommendations.
After hundreds of hours of painting, sketching, and pushing these devices to their limits, I am ready to share what I found. The iPad Air M4 surprised me the most as the best overall pick, but each model has its strengths depending on your art style and budget. Let me walk you through the best tablets for Procreate available right now.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Tablets for Procreate
Best Tablets for Procreate in 2026
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iPad Air 11-inch (M4) 128GB
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iPad Pro 13-inch (M5) 256GB
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iPad 11-inch (A16) 128GB
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iPad Pro 11-inch (M5) 256GB
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iPad Air 11-inch (M4) 256GB
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iPad mini (A17 Pro) 256GB
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iPad mini (A17 Pro) 128GB
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iPad Air 5 (M1) 64GB Renewed
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iPad Pro 12.9 (M2) 256GB Renewed
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iPad Pro 12.9 (M1) 256GB Renewed
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1. iPad Air 11-inch (M4) 128GB – Best Overall for Most Artists
Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M4): Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, 12MP Front/Back Camera, Wi-Fi 7 with Apple N1, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Blue
M4 chip
11-inch Liquid Retina
128GB storage
Apple Pencil Pro support
Wi-Fi 7
Pros
- Excellent M4 performance for Procreate
- Apple Pencil Pro with squeeze and barrel roll
- Liquid Retina with P3 wide color and True Tone
- Lightweight at 1.02 pounds
- Great value for the features
Cons
- 128GB base storage may feel tight for large art libraries
- No ProMotion 120Hz display
- No Face ID
I tested the iPad Air 11-inch with the M4 chip for six weeks, and it quickly became my go-to recommendation for most Procreate artists. The M4 chip handles complex multi-layer artworks without breaking a sweat. I pushed it with 40-layer illustrations at 300 DPI and never experienced a single stutter or lag.
The Liquid Retina display delivers vibrant, accurate colors with P3 wide color gamut and True Tone support. While it lacks the 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate of the Pro models, the 60Hz display still feels responsive when drawing with the Apple Pencil Pro. The slight gap between glass and display is noticeable if you are used to laminated screens, but most artists adapt within a day.
Apple Pencil Pro support is what makes this model special. The squeeze gesture lets you bring up tool palettes instantly, and the barrel roll feature adds rotation-based brush control that feels incredibly natural. These features changed my workflow more than I expected. I found myself switching brushes and adjusting settings faster than ever before.
Battery life easily lasted through full-day drawing sessions. I averaged about 9 to 10 hours of active Procreate use before needing a charge. The Wi-Fi 7 connectivity is a nice bonus if you sync large art files to cloud storage or share time-lapse videos online.
Who Should Buy This iPad
This is the sweet spot for digital artists who want professional-level Procreate performance without paying Pro prices. If you are a student, hobbyist, or working illustrator who does not need the absolute maximum layer count, the iPad Air M4 gives you 90 percent of the Pro experience at roughly half the cost.
I especially recommend it for artists upgrading from an older iPad (9th generation or earlier). The leap in chip performance, display quality, and Apple Pencil Pro features will feel transformative. It is also the model most Reddit users in r/ProCreate recommend for artists asking about value.
Storage Considerations for Procreate Artists
The 128GB base storage works for many artists but fills up faster than you might think. Procreate files with many layers can easily reach 100MB or more each. If you keep time-lapse videos enabled (which you should for sharing your process), those files grow even larger.
I would recommend the 128GB model for casual to moderate artists who regularly back up and delete old files. If you plan to keep months of artwork on-device or work with especially large canvases, consider stepping up to the 256GB version reviewed next.
2. iPad Pro 13-inch (M5) 256GB – Maximum Power for Professionals
Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (M5): Ultra Retina XDR Display, 256GB, Landscape 12MP Front Camera/12MP Back Camera, LiDAR Scanner, Wi-Fi 7 with Apple N1, Face ID, All-Day Battery Life — Space Black
M5 chip
13-inch Ultra Retina XDR
16GB RAM
256GB storage
Tandem OLED
Wi-Fi 7
Pros
- Stunning Tandem OLED Ultra Retina XDR display
- 16GB RAM for maximum layer counts in Procreate
- M5 chip with next-level AI performance
- Face ID authentication
- LiDAR scanner
- All-day battery life
Cons
- High price point
- Nano-texture display only on 1TB and 2TB models
- Large size not ideal for portable sketching
The iPad Pro 13-inch with the M5 chip is the most powerful drawing tablet I have ever used with Procreate. The Tandem OLED Ultra Retina XDR display produces deep blacks and incredible contrast that makes your artwork pop off the screen. When I first opened a painting on this display, the color depth and brightness honestly took my breath away.
With 16GB of RAM, this iPad handles layer counts that no other model can match. I tested complex A3-sized canvases at 300 DPI with 60-plus layers and the M5 chip never flinched. Brush strokes stayed instant regardless of canvas size or layer count. The ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate makes every stroke feel buttery smooth and immediate.
The larger 13-inch canvas size gives you room to work that smaller iPads simply cannot match. It feels closer to drawing on a real sketchbook or Wacom Cintiq. However, at 1.28 pounds and with a 13-inch footprint, it is noticeably less portable than the 11-inch models. I found it better suited for studio work than plein air sketching.
Face ID works flawlessly even when you have paint-smudged fingers or are holding the iPad at unusual drawing angles. The four-speaker audio system is the best on any iPad, which matters if you watch tutorials or listen to music while you work. Wi-Fi 7 ensures fast cloud sync for large Procreate file exports.
Who Should Buy This iPad
This is the professional artist’s tool. If Procreate is central to your income, if you work on large-format illustrations for print, or if you need the absolute maximum layer counts available, the iPad Pro 13 M5 is the top choice. Concept artists, editorial illustrators, and anyone doing high-resolution client work will appreciate the extra headroom.
I also recommend it for artists who work in Procreate Dreams, the animation add-on. Animation requires significantly more processing power and memory than static illustrations. The 16GB of RAM in the M5 Pro handles multi-frame animation projects that would bring lesser iPads to a crawl.
Display Technology and Color Accuracy
The Tandem OLED display on the M5 iPad Pro offers true blacks and a contrast ratio that LCD-based iPads cannot achieve. For artists whose work will be viewed on OLED screens (which is increasingly common), this display gives you a more accurate preview of how colors will appear to viewers.
The display supports P3 wide color and True Tone, same as the iPad Air, but the OLED technology takes color rendering to another level. If you produce artwork for premium digital displays or high-end print, this color accuracy matters. Just note that the nano-texture glass option, which reduces glare beautifully, is only available on the 1TB and 2TB configurations.
3. iPad 11-inch (A16) 128GB – Best Budget Pick for Procreate
Apple iPad 11-inch: A16 chip, 11-inch Model, Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP Front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Blue
A16 chip
11-inch Liquid Retina
128GB storage
Apple Pencil USB-C
Touch ID
Pros
- Excellent value for Procreate beginners
- A16 chip runs Procreate smoothly
- 11-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone
- 26k+ reviews show strong user satisfaction
- Compatible with Apple Pencil USB-C and Magic Keyboard Folio
Cons
- No Apple Pencil Pro support
- No ProMotion 120Hz display
- Only Wi-Fi 6 not Wi-Fi 7
- No Face ID
The iPad 11-inch with the A16 chip is the most affordable new iPad that runs Procreate well, and I was genuinely impressed by how capable it is. During my testing, the A16 chip handled moderately complex illustrations with 20-plus layers without significant slowdown. For beginner and intermediate artists, this iPad delivers everything you need to create professional-quality Procreate artwork.
The 11-inch Liquid Retina display looks great with True Tone and P3 wide color support. Colors are vibrant and accurate for the price point. The display is not laminated, which means there is a small air gap between the glass and the screen. This creates a slight parallax effect when drawing, but most beginners will not notice or care about this.
This iPad works with the Apple Pencil USB-C rather than the Apple Pencil Pro. You lose the squeeze gesture and barrel roll features, but you still get excellent pressure sensitivity, tilt recognition, and low latency. For artists just starting their digital art journey, the Apple Pencil USB-C provides a fantastic drawing experience.
With over 26,000 reviews and an 88 percent five-star rating, this is clearly a crowd favorite. The battery life lasts through a full day of drawing, and the Touch ID works reliably. At this price point, there is simply no better new iPad for Procreate beginners.
Who Should Buy This iPad
This is the ideal first iPad for anyone starting with Procreate. If you are a student, a parent buying for a creative child, or someone who wants to try digital art without a major investment, the iPad A16 is the smartest choice. You get a capable device that runs Procreate smoothly at a fraction of the cost of Pro models.
I also recommend it for artists who primarily do sketching and simpler illustrations rather than complex multi-layer paintings. The A16 chip can handle layered work, but if your typical piece uses fewer than 20 layers, you will never feel limited by this iPad.
Understanding the Apple Pencil Limitations
The iPad A16 supports the Apple Pencil USB-C and the original Apple Pencil via an adapter, but not the Apple Pencil Pro. This means you miss out on the squeeze gesture, barrel roll, and haptic feedback that Pro-compatible iPads offer. For many artists, these are nice-to-have features rather than essentials.
If you are unsure whether you need Apple Pencil Pro features, start here. You can always upgrade later once you know Procreate is a permanent part of your creative workflow. The money you save on the iPad itself can go toward Procreate brushes, online courses, or other art supplies.
4. iPad Pro 11-inch (M5) 256GB – Compact Professional Power
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5): Ultra Retina XDR Display, 256GB, Landscape 12MP Front Camera/12MP Back Camera, LiDAR Scanner, Wi-Fi 7 with Apple N1, Face ID, All-Day Battery Life — Space Black
M5 chip
11-inch Ultra Retina XDR
16GB RAM
256GB storage
Tandem OLED
Pros
- Same M5 power as the 13-inch in a smaller body
- Tandem OLED display with incredible contrast
- ProMotion 120Hz for smooth drawing
- 16GB RAM for high layer counts
- Apple Pencil Pro support
Cons
- High price point
- Limited stock availability
- Smaller canvas than 13-inch for detailed work
The iPad Pro 11-inch with the M5 chip gives you all the power of its 13-inch sibling in a more portable package. I found this to be the perfect middle ground for professional artists who want Pro-level performance but prefer a device they can carry anywhere. The 11-inch Ultra Retina XDR Tandem OLED display matches the 13-inch in quality, just at a smaller scale.
With 16GB of RAM and the M5 chip, this iPad handles the same heavy Procreate files as the larger Pro. Layer counts, brush performance, and export speeds are identical between the two sizes. The ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate makes every brush stroke feel instantaneous and natural, which is especially noticeable when doing fine detail work.
The lighter weight and smaller footprint make this my top pick for artists who travel or sketch on location. At 15.7 ounces, it fits comfortably in one hand while you draw with the other. I took this iPad on a two-week trip and completed three full illustrations without feeling limited by the screen size.
The 256GB storage provides comfortable headroom for most professional artists. You can store hundreds of complex Procreate files, brush packs, and reference images without constantly managing space. Wi-Fi 7 ensures fast file transfers when you need to move work to your desktop or cloud storage.
Who Should Buy This iPad
Professional artists who prioritize portability without sacrificing performance should look no further. This is the iPad I recommend for illustrators who work in coffee shops, commute on public transit, or attend live drawing events. You get the full Pro experience in a travel-friendly form factor.
It is also worth considering if you find the 13-inch Pro too large for comfortable hand-held drawing. The 11-inch size feels closer to a traditional sketchbook, which many artists prefer for their daily creative practice.
11-inch vs 13-inch Procreate Experience
The 11-inch display works beautifully for digital illustration, sketching, and social media-sized artwork. However, if you regularly create large-format pieces for print (A3 or larger), the 13-inch gives you more room to see fine details without zooming and panning constantly.
Both sizes support the exact same Procreate features and achieve identical layer counts. The choice comes down to your working style and typical canvas sizes. I switch between both sizes depending on the project, and many professionals own both for different scenarios.
5. iPad Air 11-inch (M4) 256GB – More Storage for Serious Artists
Apple iPad Air 11-inch (M4): Liquid Retina Display, 256GB, 12MP Front/Back Camera, Wi-Fi 7 with Apple N1, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Blue
M4 chip
11-inch Liquid Retina
256GB storage
Apple Pencil Pro
Wi-Fi 7
Pros
- 256GB storage for large art libraries
- Same excellent M4 performance as 128GB version
- Apple Pencil Pro with squeeze and barrel roll
- Liquid Retina with P3 wide color
- Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Still no ProMotion 120Hz display
- Higher price than 128GB model
This is the same iPad Air M4 I love, but with double the storage. After testing the 128GB version and watching my storage fill up with Procreate files, brush packs, and exported time-lapse videos, I can confidently say the 256GB model is the better long-term investment for serious artists.
Everything I said about the 128GB Air M4 applies here. The M4 chip delivers exceptional Procreate performance. The Apple Pencil Pro transforms your workflow with squeeze and barrel roll gestures. The Liquid Retina display renders colors accurately with P3 wide color and True Tone support.
The difference is storage headroom. With 256GB, I never had to worry about deleting old artwork to make room for new pieces. I could keep months of project files, reference images, and completed illustrations on the device. For working artists who use Procreate daily, this peace of mind is worth the extra cost.
The only downside I found is that this configuration frequently runs low on stock. If you see it available, I recommend grabbing it quickly. The combination of M4 power, Apple Pencil Pro support, and adequate storage makes this one of the best tablets for Procreate at any price point.
Who Should Buy This iPad
If you know Procreate is going to be a significant part of your creative life for the next few years, get the 256GB version. The storage difference matters more than most people realize. Procreate files, especially with many layers and time-lapse recordings enabled, consume space rapidly.
I specifically recommend this for professional illustrators, art students building portfolios, and anyone who wants to keep their entire body of work accessible on their iPad. The 256GB model ensures you will not outgrow your device after a few months of intensive Procreate use.
When to Choose Air Over Pro
The iPad Air M4 with 256GB hits the sweet spot where most artists live. You get 80 percent of the Pro experience at roughly 60 percent of the cost. The main things you give up are the OLED display, ProMotion 120Hz, Face ID, and maximum layer counts.
For most digital art workflows, these differences are noticeable but not deal-breakers. The ProMotion display feels smoother, but 60Hz is still perfectly usable for drawing. The OLED display looks better, but the LCD Liquid Retina is still excellent. Unless you need the absolute maximum layer count for your work, the Air is the smarter financial choice.
6. iPad mini (A17 Pro) 256GB – Best Portable Procreate Companion
Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro): Apple Intelligence, 8.3-inch Liquid Retina Display, 256GB, Wi-Fi 6E, 12MP Front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Space Gray
A17 Pro chip
8.3-inch Liquid Retina
256GB storage
Apple Pencil Pro
Wi-Fi 6E
Pros
- Incredibly portable at 10.4 ounces
- A17 Pro chip runs Procreate smoothly
- Apple Pencil Pro support
- 256GB storage for extensive art library
- All-day battery life
Cons
- 8.3-inch screen feels small for detailed work
- Older Wi-Fi 6E standard
- No Face ID
- not as powerful as M-series chips
The iPad mini with the A17 Pro chip is the most portable Procreate device Apple makes, and it surprised me with how capable it is. At just 10.4 ounces and 8.3 inches, this iPad fits in a jacket pocket or small bag. I carried it everywhere for a month and found myself sketching in situations where I would never bring a full-sized iPad.
The A17 Pro chip is the same processor that powers the iPhone 15 Pro, and it runs Procreate with confidence. I completed several full illustrations with 15-plus layers without any performance issues. Brush strokes are responsive, and the display renders colors with P3 wide color and True Tone support.
What makes the mini special for Procreate is Apple Pencil Pro support. You get the same squeeze gesture, barrel roll, and haptic feedback as the Air and Pro models. This means you do not sacrifice creative control for portability. The small screen takes some adjustment, but I adapted within a few drawing sessions.
The 256GB storage in this configuration gives you plenty of room for art files, brushes, and reference images. The display is laminated, so there is no air gap between glass and screen. Colors look vibrant, and the anti-reflective coating helps when sketching outdoors or under bright lights.
Who Should Buy This iPad
The iPad mini is perfect for artists who prioritize portability above all else. If you commute, travel frequently, or want a device for quick sketches and studies, the mini is unmatched. It is also an excellent secondary iPad for professional artists who already own a larger model for studio work.
I also recommend it for artists with smaller hands who find the 11-inch and 13-inch iPads uncomfortable to hold for extended periods. The mini feels like a digital Moleskine, which makes it incredibly inviting for daily sketching practice.
Working on a Small Display
The 8.3-inch screen is the obvious trade-off. Detailed illustrations that require precise brush work can feel cramped. I found it ideal for sketching, studies, character portraits, and social media-sized artwork. For large, complex illustrations with many layers, a bigger screen serves you better.
One trick I discovered: the mini works beautifully as a reference device alongside a larger iPad or desktop. Keep your reference images and color palettes on the mini while doing your main work on a bigger screen. This dual-device workflow is surprisingly effective.
7. iPad mini (A17 Pro) 128GB – Budget-Friendly Portable Option
Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro): Apple Intelligence, 8.3-inch Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6E, 12MP Front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Space Gray
A17 Pro chip
8.3-inch Liquid Retina
128GB storage
Apple Pencil Pro
Wi-Fi 6E
Pros
- Same A17 Pro performance as 256GB version
- Compact and ultra-portable design
- Apple Pencil Pro support
- Apple Intelligence features
- USB-C with fast transfer speeds
Cons
- 128GB storage fills up with art files
- No Face ID
- No Magic Keyboard compatibility
- Small screen for detailed work
The 128GB iPad mini with the A17 Pro chip offers the same great Procreate experience as the 256GB version at a lower price point. During my testing, performance was identical between the two models. The A17 Pro chip runs Procreate smoothly, and Apple Pencil Pro support means you get all the advanced drawing features.
I found the 128GB storage workable for artists who focus on sketching and smaller illustrations rather than massive multi-layer pieces. If you regularly back up your work to cloud storage or a computer, 128GB can serve you well. However, if you tend to accumulate files like I do, you may feel the pinch after a few months.
The portability factor cannot be overstated. This iPad goes places no other tablet can. I sketched on public transit, in waiting rooms, and even standing in line at a coffee shop. The Apple Pencil Pro attaches magnetically to the side for charging, so the entire kit is self-contained and always ready.
One thing to note: the mini does not support Magic Keyboard, so it is less versatile as a productivity device. But if your primary use case is Procreate and digital art, this limitation does not matter. The mini excels as a focused creative tool.
Who Should Buy This iPad
Budget-conscious artists who want Apple Pencil Pro features in a portable form factor should seriously consider this model. You get the squeeze gesture, barrel roll, and haptic feedback that make the Apple Pencil Pro special, all at a more accessible price than the Air or Pro.
It is also a great gift iPad for young artists or students. The compact size appeals to teenagers and young adults who want to create digital art on the go. The 128GB storage is sufficient for learning and skill-building, and the device can grow with the artist as they develop.
Managing Storage on 128GB
Storage management is the main consideration with this model. Procreate files with time-lapse recordings can consume significant space. I recommend exporting time-lapses regularly and deleting the source files once you have saved the video. Also, periodically archive completed projects to cloud storage or an external drive.
Brush packs are another storage consideration. Free and paid Procreate brush sets can add up quickly. I recommend only installing brushes you actively use and removing sets you no longer need. This keeps your brush library manageable and frees up valuable storage space.
8. iPad Air 5th Gen (M1) 64GB Renewed – Best Budget Value
Apple iPad Air (5th Generation, 10.9-inch, 2022), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed)
M1 chip
10.9-inch Liquid Retina
64GB storage
Apple Pencil 2
Renewed
Pros
- M1 chip still delivers excellent Procreate performance
- Renewed price offers incredible value
- Beautiful 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display
- Stereo landscape audio
- Apple Pencil 2 support with magnetic charging
Cons
- Only 64GB storage is very limiting
- 90-day renewed warranty only
- Not Prime eligible
- No Face ID
The renewed iPad Air 5th Generation with the M1 chip is the best budget value for Procreate artists. Even though the M1 is now a few generations old, it still runs Procreate with impressive speed and fluidity. I tested it alongside newer models and the performance difference for typical Procreate work is smaller than you might expect.
The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone and P3 wide color looks identical to newer Air models. Colors are vibrant and accurate. The laminated display means no air gap between glass and screen, giving you a more precise drawing experience than the non-laminated iPad A16.
This model supports the Apple Pencil 2nd generation rather than the Apple Pencil Pro. You get magnetic charging, double-tap to switch tools, and excellent pressure sensitivity. You miss out on the squeeze and barrel roll features of the Pencil Pro, but the 2nd generation Pencil is still a fantastic drawing tool.
The main trade-off is storage. At 64GB, you will need to be disciplined about managing files. I recommend using cloud storage or an external USB-C drive for archiving completed work. Despite this limitation, the M1 performance at this renewed price makes it one of the best tablets for Procreate on a strict budget.
Who Should Buy This iPad
Budget-limited artists who want M-series chip performance should jump on this renewed deal. The M1 chip still outperforms the A16 and A17 Pro chips in sustained Procreate workloads, making this a smart purchase for artists who prioritize performance over storage capacity.
I especially recommend it for artists who already own a desktop or laptop for primary storage. If you use the iPad purely as a creation tool and offload files regularly, the 64GB limitation becomes much less of an issue. The M1 chip ensures smooth, responsive Procreate performance at a fraction of new-iPad pricing.
Buying Renewed: What to Expect
Amazon Renewed iPads come with a 90-day warranty and are tested to work like new. In my experience, the condition is typically very good to excellent with minor cosmetic wear. Battery health may not be 100 percent, but should still provide adequate life for Procreate sessions.
I recommend checking the return policy carefully and testing the iPad thoroughly within the return window. Check the display for dead pixels, test the Apple Pencil charging, and verify Wi-Fi connectivity. Most renewed units are fine, but it is worth being thorough.
9. iPad Pro 12.9 (M2) 256GB Renewed – Pro Features at Mid-Range Price
Apple iPad Pro (6th Generation, 12.9-inch, 2022), 256GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed)
M2 chip
12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR
256GB storage
Apple Pencil 2
Renewed
Pros
- M2 chip for excellent Procreate performance
- 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR with ProMotion 120Hz
- LiDAR scanner
- Thunderbolt USB 4 support
- Apple Pencil 2 compatible
Cons
- Renewed with 90-day warranty
- Not Prime eligible
- Heavier at 16 ounces
- 2022 model year
The renewed iPad Pro 6th Generation with the M2 chip gives you genuine Pro features at a mid-range price. The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion 120Hz is the standout feature here. The smooth refresh rate and HDR-capable display make drawing in Procreate feel premium and responsive.
The M2 chip still ranks among the most powerful iPad processors. In my Procreate testing, it handled 40-plus layer illustrations at large canvas sizes without hesitation. Brush strokes are instant, and the 120Hz ProMotion display makes everything feel smoother than 60Hz Air or mini models.
This model supports the Apple Pencil 2nd generation with magnetic charging and hover feature. The hover feature lets you preview brush strokes before touching the screen, which is incredibly useful for precise work. You also get the LiDAR scanner and Thunderbolt USB 4 for fast file transfers.
The 256GB storage is comfortable for most artists, and the larger 12.9-inch display gives you plenty of room for detailed work. The trade-off is the renewed condition, heavier weight, and older Wi-Fi 6E standard. But for artists who want a Pro-level Procreate experience without the Pro-level price, this renewed M2 model is hard to beat.
Who Should Buy This iPad
Artists who want the large-format ProCreate experience with ProMotion display and maximum layer headroom should consider this renewed Pro. You get the 12.9-inch XDR display, M2 power, and 256GB storage for less than the cost of a new iPad Air. It is the smart choice for value-focused professionals.
I particularly recommend it for artists who create large, detailed illustrations and need the screen real estate. The 12.9-inch canvas lets you work on fine details without constant zooming. Combined with the M2 chip and 8GB of RAM, this iPad handles demanding Procreate projects with confidence.
M2 vs M5 Performance in Procreate
The M5 chip is newer and faster, but in practical Procreate use, the difference is less dramatic than benchmark numbers suggest. Both chips handle complex layered artwork smoothly. The M5 pulls ahead in extreme scenarios like very high layer counts or Procreate Dreams animation, but for typical illustration work, the M2 remains excellent.
What matters more for most artists is the display quality and size, both of which the M2 Pro delivers beautifully. The Liquid Retina XDR with ProMotion is a genuine upgrade over the Air’s LCD display, and the renewed price makes it accessible to more artists.
10. iPad Pro 12.9 (M1) 256GB Renewed – Budget Pro Option
Apple iPad Pro (5th Generation, 12.9-inch, 2021), 256GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray (Renewed)
M1 chip
12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR
256GB storage
Apple Pencil 2
Renewed
Pros
- M1 chip for solid Procreate performance
- 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion
- TrueDepth camera with Center Stage
- LiDAR Scanner
- Apple Pencil 2 compatible
Cons
- Renewed with 90-day warranty
- 2021 model (oldest in this list)
- Wi-Fi 6 only (not 6E)
- Not Prime eligible
The renewed iPad Pro 5th Generation with the M1 chip is the most affordable way to get a 12.9-inch Pro display for Procreate. While it is the oldest model in this roundup (2021), the M1 chip still runs Procreate with impressive speed. The Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion 120Hz delivers the same gorgeous, smooth drawing experience as newer Pro models.
I tested this iPad alongside the M2 and M5 Pros, and for typical Procreate illustration work, the performance gap is narrower than expected. The M1 chip handles 30-plus layer canvases without issues. Brush strokes are smooth and responsive thanks to the 120Hz ProMotion display.
The 12.9-inch XDR display is the real star here. HDR content looks stunning, colors are vibrant and accurate with P3 wide color, and the laminated display provides precise cursor tracking. For artists who want a large, professional-quality canvas without spending over $700, this renewed M1 Pro is an excellent option.
The 256GB storage is generous for a renewed device at this price. You also get the TrueDepth camera with Center Stage, LiDAR scanner, and Thunderbolt USB 4 support. The main limitations are the older Wi-Fi 6 standard (not 6E or 7) and the 90-day renewed warranty.
Who Should Buy This iPad
Artists on a tight budget who refuse to compromise on display quality should look at this renewed M1 Pro. The 12.9-inch XDR display alone justifies the purchase. You get a genuine professional drawing experience at a price that competes with entry-level new iPads.
This is also a smart choice for artists upgrading from a basic iPad who want the large-format ProCreate experience. The display quality, ProMotion smoothness, and M1 performance represent a massive leap from non-Pro iPads. Many Reddit users in r/ProCreate have recommended similar refurbished Pro purchases for budget-conscious artists.
Longevity and Software Support
As a 2021 model, the M1 iPad Pro is still fully supported by Apple and runs the latest iPadOS. Apple typically supports iPads for 5 to 6 years with software updates, so this device should receive updates through at least 2027 or later. Procreate itself works flawlessly on M1 iPads and receives the same feature updates as newer models.
The main risk with a 2021 renewed device is battery health. The battery may not hold a full charge like a new device, but it should still provide several hours of Procreate use per charge. I recommend checking battery health in Settings upon receiving your renewed unit and returning it if the degradation is severe.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Tablet for Procreate
Choosing the right iPad for Procreate comes down to understanding how different specifications affect your art workflow. Let me break down the key factors that matter most for digital artists.
Understanding Layer Limits and RAM
Layer limits in Procreate are directly tied to the amount of RAM in your iPad, not the storage capacity. This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of choosing an iPad for Procreate. More RAM means more layers at larger canvas sizes.
The iPad Pro M5 models with 16GB of RAM offer the highest layer counts. You can work with 60-plus layers on large A3 canvases at 300 DPI. The M4 Air and M2 Pro models with 8GB of RAM typically handle 30 to 40 layers at similar canvas sizes. The A16 iPad and A17 Pro mini offer fewer layers due to their 4GB to 6GB RAM configurations.
If your art style relies heavily on layering (separate layers for sketch, line art, flat colors, shading, highlights, adjustments), more RAM matters. If you work more simply with fewer layers, even the budget iPads will serve you well.
Apple Pencil Compatibility Guide
Not all iPads work with all Apple Pencils, and the Pencil you use significantly affects your Procreate experience. The Apple Pencil Pro, available on the M4 Air, A17 Pro mini, and M5 Pro models, offers squeeze gesture, barrel roll, haptic feedback, and magnetic charging. These features genuinely enhance the creative process.
The Apple Pencil 2nd generation works with the renewed M1 and M2 Pro models and the M1 Air. It offers magnetic charging, double-tap tool switching, and hover preview (on M2 and later). The Apple Pencil USB-C works with the A16 iPad and offers basic pressure sensitivity and tilt without advanced features.
When choosing an iPad, consider which Apple Pencil features matter to your workflow. If squeeze gesture and barrel roll are important to you, you need an M4 Air, A17 Pro mini, or M5 Pro. If those features are not essential, the renewed M1 or M2 Pro models with Apple Pencil 2 remain excellent.
Storage Recommendations for Artists
Storage is about how much art you keep on your device, not about Procreate performance. Procreate runs identically on a 64GB and a 256GB iPad. The difference is how many files, brushes, and exported images you can store before needing to offload.
For most artists, I recommend at least 128GB of storage. This accommodates a reasonable library of Procreate files, brush packs, and reference images. For professional artists or those who keep time-lapse recordings, 256GB is the sweet spot. Power users who store their entire portfolio on-device should consider 512GB or more.
You can stretch smaller storage by using cloud services like iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox for archiving completed work. External USB-C drives also work well for iPad storage expansion. For more tips on choosing the right iPad for art, check out our comprehensive iPad drawing guide.
Display Size: Which Screen Fits Your Art?
Screen size affects both your drawing experience and portability. The 13-inch iPad Pro gives you the most canvas real estate, comparable to a standard sketchbook. It is ideal for detailed, large-format work but less portable. The 11-inch iPads (Air and Pro) strike a balance between workspace and portability.
The 8.3-inch iPad mini is the most portable but cramped for detailed illustration. I recommend it for sketching, studies, and artists who prioritize mobility. The 10.9-inch iPad Air 5th Gen (renewed) offers a size similar to the current 11-inch Air, which suits most artists well.
Consider where and how you draw most often. Studio artists who work at a desk benefit from larger screens. Traveling artists and students often prefer smaller, lighter devices. There is no wrong choice, only the choice that fits your lifestyle.
Refurbished vs New: Is It Worth the Savings?
Renewed and refurbished iPads offer excellent value for Procreate artists. The M1 and M2 chips in older Pro models still deliver outstanding Procreate performance. You can get a 12.9-inch Pro display at a fraction of the new price, which is genuinely remarkable value.
The trade-offs are the 90-day warranty, potential cosmetic wear, and possibly reduced battery health. I recommend buying from Amazon Renewed for their return policy, and testing the device thoroughly within the return window. Check display quality, battery health, Apple Pencil charging, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
For artists on a budget, renewed Pro models offer more creative capability per dollar than any new iPad. The display quality alone justifies the purchase for many artists. Just be prepared to manage expectations around cosmetic condition and battery life.
Procreate Dreams and Future Compatibility
Procreate Dreams is the animation companion to Procreate, and it requires significantly more processing power than static illustration. If you plan to explore animation, the M-series chips (M1, M2, M4, M5) handle Procreate Dreams far better than A-series chips (A16, A17 Pro).
All iPads in this roundup support the latest version of Procreate and will continue receiving updates for years. Apple supports iPads with software updates for 5 to 6 years from release, so even the 2021 M1 Pro has solid longevity ahead.
FAQ
Can you put Procreate on any tablet?
No, Procreate is exclusively available for iPadOS devices. You cannot install Procreate on Android tablets, Samsung Galaxy Tabs, or any non-Apple device. Procreate is designed specifically for iPad hardware and the Apple Pencil ecosystem. If you want to use Procreate, you need an iPad.
What drawing tablet has Procreate?
Only Apple iPads can run Procreate. Compatible models include the iPad Pro (M5, M4, M2, and M1 generations), iPad Air (M4 and M1 generations), iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad (A16). Any currently sold iPad model supports Procreate, but performance and layer limits vary based on the chip and RAM.
What devices can run Procreate?
Procreate runs exclusively on iPad devices. Compatible models include iPad Pro (all recent generations), iPad Air (5th generation and later including M1 and M4), iPad mini (6th and 7th generation), and iPad (10th and 11th generation). Procreate requires iPadOS 16 or later. The app is available as a one-time purchase from the App Store.
Is it worth getting an iPad just for Procreate?
For many digital artists, yes. Procreate is a professional-grade illustration app that costs a one-time fee of around $13 with no subscription. When paired with an Apple Pencil, even a budget iPad like the iPad A16 provides a capable digital art studio. The iPad Air M4 offers the best balance of performance and value, while renewed iPad Pro models provide premium features at lower prices. If digital art is a serious hobby or professional pursuit, an iPad for Procreate is a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion: Which iPad Is Right for Your Procreate Journey?
After testing all 10 of these iPads extensively with Procreate, my top recommendation for most artists remains the iPad Air 11-inch with the M4 chip. It delivers the best combination of performance, Apple Pencil Pro support, display quality, and value. Whether you choose the 128GB or 256GB version, you are getting a device that will serve your creative work for years.
For professional artists who need maximum power and the best display, the iPad Pro 13-inch M5 is the ultimate Procreate machine. The Tandem OLED display and 16GB of RAM provide capabilities no other iPad can match. Budget-conscious artists should look at the iPad A16 for new purchases or the renewed M1 and M2 Pro models for premium features at lower prices.
The best tablets for Procreate all share one thing in common: they transform how you create digital art. From the portable iPad mini to the massive 13-inch Pro, each model offers a unique creative experience. Pick the one that fits your art style, budget, and lifestyle, and start creating. The right iPad is the one that gets out of your way and lets you focus on what matters: your art.