Do I need a tablet for digital art? What tools actually work in 2025

When people ask if they need a tablet for digital art, they’re really asking: digital art, the practice of creating visual art using digital tools like tablets, software, and styluses. Also known as digital painting, it’s not about the device—it’s about how you use it. You can make stunning art on a smartphone, a cheap drawing pad, or a $1,000 iPad Pro. What changes isn’t the tool—it’s your workflow, your patience, and what you want to do with your art.

Some artists use Procreate, a popular digital painting app designed for iPad that mimics real brushes and textures because it’s fast, intuitive, and works offline. Others swear by drawing tablet, a pressure-sensitive device that connects to a computer and lets you draw with a stylus because they need layers, precision, or to work in Adobe Photoshop. Then there are those who paint on a laptop with a mouse—yes, really—and still sell prints at galleries. The truth? No single tool is the right one for everyone. What matters is whether your setup lets you create without fighting it.

Most beginners think they need the fanciest gear. They don’t. Start with what you have. If you’re just sketching ideas, your phone’s notes app works. If you’re building a portfolio for clients, then a tablet with good pressure sensitivity makes sense. A iPad for art, a tablet commonly used by artists for its responsive screen and Procreate compatibility is popular because it’s portable, powerful, and simple—but it’s not magic. It won’t turn bad habits into good art. That’s all you.

Look at the trends: AI art, digital exhibitions, and online galleries are booming. Artists are using everything from Wacom tablets to Chromebooks with touchscreens. The real question isn’t whether you need a tablet—it’s whether you’re ready to show up every day and make something, no matter what’s in your hands. The best tool is the one you’ll actually use. And if you’re reading this, you’re already on your way.

Below, you’ll find real advice from artists who’ve tried every device, from budget styli to high-end screens. Whether you’re starting out or upgrading, there’s something here that’ll save you time, money, and frustration.