There’s never been a more exciting time to discover the best iPad for graphic design. As Apple continues to push the boundaries of processing power, display technology, and stylus innovation, designers now have tools once reserved for full-fledged workstations. But which iPad is a perfect fit for you? Let’s explore the best options!
When it comes to choosing a recommended iPad for graphic design, recent reviews from Octet Design Journal and iMore highlight how Apple’s range balances performance and creative ability. Here’s a closer look at the models that stand out in 20204 and 2025.
The iPad Pro 13-inch (M4, 2024) is a powerhouse of the best iPad for graphic designers, featuring a stunning 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED display with excellent color accuracy and brightness. Its M4 chip easily handles complex creative tasks, while 120Hz ProMotion ensures smooth drawing.
Pairing it with the new Apple Pencil Pro, which offers haptic feedback and squeeze gestures, gives professional designers top-tier precision and control. However, its size and price make it less practical for students or users who are highly mobile.
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The iPad Pro 11-inch (M4, 2024) offers the same impressive M4 performance and OLED display in a more compact, portable design. It retains 120Hz ProMotion and supports Apple Pencil Pro, making it highly capable of professional illustration and design on the go.
Its slightly smaller display can feel cramped for detailed work, but the balance of power and size makes it popular among advanced users who travel. It can integrate with the Apple Pencils and is fully compatible with all major design apps.
For those looking for reliable performance without Pro-level pricing, the iPad Air 13-inch (M3, 2025) is your best iPad for design graphic option. Its M3 chip provides smooth processing for graphic design apps, and the large 13-inch Liquid Retina LCD screen offers plenty of space for drawing.
Apple Pencil Pro support expands creative options, though the 60Hz refresh rate isn’t as responsive as the Pro’s. Still, it reaches an ideal point for design students or semi-professional creators, allowing them to run all professional design apps smoothly.
Compact and capable, the iPad Air 11-inch (M3, 2025) combines the M3 chip with an 11-inch Liquid Retina LCD. It supports Apple Pencil Pro, providing reliable drawing performance for sketching, painting, and layout design.
Although the smaller size and 60Hz refresh limit high-detail workflows, it is an excellent fit for students or hobbyists wanting a lightweight, modern tablet for design tasks. This little beast is also able to handle popular design apps on the go.
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The iPad Mini 7th Gen (2024) shines in portability with its 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and Apple Pencil support, making it perfect for quick sketches or note-taking. An updated chip gives it enough speed for light design tasks.
With its small screen, you can enjoy all major drawing apps portably. It best serves on-the-go users or casual sketchers seeking lower prices.
Next, the iPad Air 13-inch (M2, 2024) offers a spacious 13-inch, Liquid Retina, True Tone, 600 nits brightness screen, and strong M2 performance. Already supporting Apple Pencil Pro for accurate drawing.
While the display and refresh rate trail behind the iPad Pro’s, it remains a practical, budget-conscious choice for students or intermediate designers who prioritize screen space without breaking the bank. It is the best iPad for graphic design enthusiasts to achieve the pro level.
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Finally, the iPad 11th Generation (2025) is the best budget iPad for graphic design. Its 10.9” Liquid Retina screen and an A16 chip are sufficient for essential illustration and design apps.
However, it only supports earlier Apple Pencil (USB-C) models and lacks advanced features like ProMotion or OLED contrast. It’s best for beginners or students who want a reliable, entry-level creative tablet.
In short, the best choice is the one that caters to your skill, habit, and workflow. The iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) offers unmatched power and OLED clarity for pros, while the Air 13-inch (M3) balances performance and price. For your travel buddies, the iPad Pro 11-inch shines, and the iPad Mini is your in-motion sketch board.
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Selecting the perfect iPad for your graphic design work is an investment in your creative freedom. Considering its features, limitations, and your vision is essential for future-proofing and helps you get the most from your journey.
While the right iPad gives you a creative edge, the best typeface elevates your designs. With Zarma Type’s stylish font library, you can build on your artistic momentum. Give your next project a typographic signature as refined as your design skills.
