I've been using Procreate -- the digital art app from Savage Interactive -- on my iPad for over a year. Swapping physical media like watercolor, oils, acrylics or simple sketching with pen or pencil, for an Apple Pencil and screen was a big change, but Procreate has turned me into a digital art convert.
LIKE
Wide range of tools
Useful for everyone from beginners to professionals
Easy to learn new styles like animation
DON'T LIKE
$10 price tag
Two different apps for iPhone and iPad use
Large number of tools can be overwhelming for beginners
The digital illustration app costs $10 (£10, AU$15) to download (with no in-app purchases), and its massive suite of art tools and creative features make it well worth the money. Procreate offers an accessible experience whether you're a design professional, a seasoned digital artist or a beginner to the world of digital drawing. One downside: The app is only available on iPadOS and iOS
Even though it's been over a year, I'm still finding and learning about new features to improve my artwork and explore different styles. And the app isn't done yet -- Procreate 5.2, first teased during Apple's Spring Loaded event in April -- is on the way. Procreate 5.2 plans to take advantage of the M1 chip in the new iPad Pro line to add a 3D painting feature and make the app faster.
Even as is, the app's tools, such as quick shape, blend mode, layering, alpha locks and clipping masks, add a new level of professionalism to your art. This is why we awarded Procreate a CNET Editors' Choice award for 2021.