Digital art has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to the growing availability of powerful drawing app (s) that allow artists to create stunning works of art on their computers, tablets, and even smartphones. These apps offer a range of features and tools that make it easier than ever to bring your artistic vision to life, whether you’re a beginner or a professional artist.
Factors to consider when choosing a drawing app
When choosing a drawing app, there are several important factors to consider that can help you find the best app for your needs. Here are some of the key factors to keep in mind:
User Interface
The user interface should be intuitive and easy to navigate, with all the necessary tools and features easily accessible.
Drawing Tools
The app should offer a variety of drawing tools, such as pens, pencils, brushes, and erasers, with customizable settings for size, opacity, and other parameters.
File Formats
The app should support a range of file formats, including popular formats like JPG, PNG, and PDF, as well as vector-based formats like SVG and AI.
Compatibility
The app should be compatible with your operating system, whether it’s Windows, Mac, iOS, or Android.
Price
Some drawing apps are free, while others require a one-time purchase or a subscription fee. Consider your budget and the features you need to determine the best option for you.
Community
Some drawing apps have a large community of users who share their artwork and offer feedback and support. Consider whether you would benefit from being part of such a community.
Features to look for in a drawing app
When looking for a drawing app, there are several features that you should consider to ensure that you can create the art you want. Here are some of the most important features to look for:
Layer Support
The ability to use layers in a drawing app is essential for creating complex artwork, as it allows you to separate different elements of your drawing and work on them independently.
Customizable Brushes
Look for a drawing app that offers a variety of customizable brushes, such as size, shape, and opacity. This will help you create unique strokes and effects in your artwork.
Vector Support
If you plan on creating logos or other graphic design elements, a drawing app with vector support is essential. This allows you to create artwork that can be resized without losing quality.
Text Support
Some drawing apps also offer text support, allowing you to add text elements to your artwork. This can be useful for adding titles, captions, or other text-based elements.
Exporting Options
Make sure that the drawing app you choose offers a range of exporting options, including popular file formats like JPG, PNG, and PDF. This will allow you to share your artwork with others or use it in other projects.
Color Management
Look for a drawing app that offers color management tools, including color pickers and color palettes. This will help you create artwork with accurate and consistent colors.
Integration with Other Tools
If you plan on using other design tools or software, look for a drawing app that integrates well with those tools. This can help you streamline your workflow and create more efficient designs.
Best Drawing Apps for Artists
If you’re an artist looking for the best digital tools to create your art, you’ve come to the right place. In this section, we’ve curated a list of the top drawing apps for artists of all levels, from beginners to professionals. These apps offer a wide range of features and tools to help you unleash your creativity and bring your artistic vision to life.
1. Adobe Illustrator Draw

Adobe Illustrator Draw is a powerful digital drawing app that allows users to create vector illustrations and graphics on their mobile devices. It is available for both iOS and Android platforms and is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite of apps.
With Illustrator Draw, users can create freehand drawings with a variety of customizable brushes and tools, as well as add layers and adjust opacity to create complex designs. The app also integrates seamlessly with other Adobe apps, allowing for easy sharing and editing of artwork across different platforms.
2. Medibang Paint
Medibang Paint is a free digital painting and illustration app that is available for both Windows and Mac platforms, as well as iOS and Android devices. It offers a wide range of features, including customizable brushes, layer support, and various filters and effects to create high-quality artwork.
Medibang Paint also allows for cloud storage and synchronization, allowing users to work on their projects across multiple devices. Additionally, the app provides a built-in community platform where artists can share their work and connect with other creators.
3. Adobe Sketch Drawing App

Adobe Sketch is a popular digital drawing app that is available for iPad and iPhone devices. The app offers a variety of customizable brushes and tools, as well as the ability to work with layers and create complex designs.
Adobe Sketch also integrates with other Adobe apps, including Photoshop and Illustrator, allowing for seamless sharing and editing of artwork across different platforms. In addition, the app features a community section where artists can share their work, get feedback, and connect with other creators.
4. ArtFlow Drawing App
ArtFlow is a digital painting and sketching app that is available for Android devices. It offers a wide range of customizable brushes and tools, including pressure sensitivity support for stylus devices. The app also features layer support, a color picker, and the ability to import and export files in various formats.
ArtFlow is designed for both beginners and professionals, with a simple interface that allows for easy navigation and quick access to essential tools. It is also compatible with a variety of stylus devices, making it an excellent choice for artists who prefer a more traditional drawing experience on their digital devices. .
5. PaperDraw

PaperDraw is a digital sketchbook app that is available for both Android and iOS devices. The app offers a variety of brushes and pens, including pencils, fountain pens, and markers, that simulate the feel of traditional drawing tools. It also features layer support, various paper textures, and the ability to import and export files in different formats.
PaperDraw is designed to be easy to use and allows users to quickly create and edit their artwork. Additionally, the app includes a community section where artists can share their work and connect with other creators. Users can set the transparent mode to trace the original picture and draw a sketch of the same above it.
6. Infinite Painter

Infinite Painter is a digital painting and illustration app that is available for both Android and iOS devices. The app offers a variety of brushes and tools, including customizable brush shapes and textures, layer support, and the ability to work with masks and filters.
Infinite Painter also features a unique perspective guide tool that allows users to easily create 3D effects and depth in their artwork. Additionally, the app includes a built-in community section where artists can share their work and connect with other creators, as well as the option to export and save files in a variety of formats.
7. ibis Paint X

Ibis Paint X is a popular digital drawing and painting app that is available for both Android and iOS devices. The app offers a wide range of brushes and tools, including vector tools, layer support, and the ability to work with masks and filters.
ibis Paint X also features a unique screen recording function that allows users to record their drawing process and share it with others. Additionally, the app includes a built-in community section where artists can share their work and connect with other creators, as well as the option to export and save files in a variety of formats.
8. SketchBook

SketchBook is a digital sketching and painting app that is available for both desktop and mobile platforms. The app offers a variety of customizable brushes and tools, including pencil, pen, and marker, as well as layer support, and the ability to work with masks and blending modes.
SketchBook is designed to be easy to use and allows users to quickly create and edit their artwork. Additionally, the app includes a built-in community section where artists can share their work and connect with other creators, as well as the option to export and save files in a variety of formats.
9. Paper Draw
The paper draw app offers you an experience close to an actual canvas and brush. With all the latest features like an excellent portfolio display and multiple brush selections, the app offers you a modern and minimal user interface. You can get more advanced tools and features in the app’s premium version.
10. Sketch Master Drawing App

Sketch Master is another easy-to-use app for artists that allows you to import pictures from a library or camera for creating a sketch. The app is suitable for beginners because of its simplicity. It offers seven different brushes, three layers, and you can zoom a sketch up to 3000 percent. The app contains ads but offers all the features in its free version.
- Top 10 Drawing Apps for Artists to Enhance Their Art Skills - April 22, 2023