Would you like to use your iPad as a graphics tablet but miss the speed and power of your PC or Mac? An iPad is the perfect tool for creating digital art with apps like Procreate and Photoshop and using an Apple Pencil. However, some creators would also like to have the functionality that comes with a PC or Mac.
There is a way to get the best of both worlds. You can use your iPad as a drawing tablet while still incorporating the benefits of your PC or Mac. In this article, we will discuss how it is done.
Use your iPad as a drawing tablet for your PC
Digital artists can create stunning works of art using an iPad. But as good as it is for creating digital art, some users miss the functionality of their PCs. On the other hand, you may have a Windows-only app on your PC that you’d like to use on your iPad or vice versa on your Mac. Your computer’s screen is much larger than your iPad’s, so you’ll be able to easily perform detailed work without the need to zoom in on your iPad.
No matter the reason, you can use your iPad as a drawing tablet on your PC or Mac using a third-party app. We will cover some of the most popular ones.
Astropad
Astropad is a popular app that mirrors your iPad to your PC or Mac. This allows you to use your iPad solely to create artwork while taking advantage of the functionality of your computer. When you need to switch between tools or change your settings, you can quickly perform these tasks on your computer using keyboard shortcuts.
Before downloading the necessary applications, make sure your computer supports Astropad. For the best experience, it’s always a good idea to update your operating system, but here’s what it requires:
- MacOS 10.11, El Capitan or later
- Windows 10 64-bit, build 1809 or later
- iPad iOS 12.1 or later
- Strong Wi-Fi or cable connection
Setting up and using Astropad is simple. Here’s how to do it:
- Download and install Astropad for your iPad.
- Download the app to mac or pc.
- Connect your iPad to your PC or Mac via the same wireless network or a cable.
- Open the Astropad app on both your iPad and your computer.
- Your iPad will now be mirrored to your computer.
Duet exhibition
If you’re looking for the versatility of using your iPad as a graphics tablet while maintaining the functionality of a computer, Duet Display is a good option. This mirroring app connects your iPad to a PC or Mac. You can view your artwork on your computer’s larger monitor, use keyboard shortcuts, and use your iPad solely to create your digital artwork.
Make sure the apps are compatible with your devices before downloading them. Keeping your operating system up to date is always best, but here are the basic Duet Display requirements:
- Mac OS 6 or higher
- Windows 10 64-bit or higher
- iPad iOS 7 or later
- Strong Wi-Fi or cable connection
Setting up Duet Display is quick and only requires a few steps. To do so, follow the steps below:
- Download and install the Duet Display app for your iPad.
- Download and install the application for your computer.
- Connect your iPad to your computer either with a cable or using the same wireless network.
- Launch apps on your iPad and computer.
- Your iPad will now be mirrored to your computer.
easy canvas
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use app to turn your iPad into a graphics tablet for PC or Mac, EasyCanvas is a good option. Setup only takes a few minutes. It is compatible with both Mac and Windows, however, it does not have a wireless connection option, so you will need to use a cable. Once you’ve downloaded the app on your Mac or PC, your screens will be mirrored. This will allow you to use your iPad as a drawing tablet but use your computer for a larger screen.
Although it’s not entirely necessary, it’s best to make sure your computer is running the latest operating system. This is what EasyCanvas requires:
- MacOS 10.11 or later
- Windows 10 or later
- iPad iOS 12.2 or later
- Connection cable
The EasyCanvas setup process is simple. This is how you do it:
- Download and install easy canvas on your computer.
- Launch the application on your computer.
- Connect the devices with a patch cable.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to pair the devices.
The best of both worlds
With the addition of an easy-to-use app, you can use your iPad as a drawing table by pairing it with your PC or Mac. These apps allow you to use your iPad for the creative process while also giving you a larger view on the your computer monitor. Another benefit is having access to keyboard shortcuts and an easier-to-manage workflow using your computer’s features.
