Can You Use an iPad as a Digital Tablet with a Computer?

Yes, it is possible to use an iPad as a digital tablet with a computer, but there are certain limitations to consider. While an iPad might not match the processing power and performance of a laptop, it can be integrated into your digital art setup through USB connections and specific software solutions. This article explores the process, benefits, and potential drawbacks of using an iPad as a digital tablet in conjunction with a computer.

Compatibility and Setup

To connect an iPad to a computer and use it as a digital tablet, follow these steps:

Use the USB cable that came with your iPad to connect it to your computer. Install a compatible third-party app on both your iPad and computer. Configure the app to make your iPad work as a second monitor, displaying content either mirrored or extended depending on your preference.

A widely used app for this purpose is Duet Display. The Pro version of Duet Display even allows you to utilize the pressure sensitivity of your Apple Pencil, which adds a layer of functionality to the digital painting process.

Practical Applications and Performance

Using an iPad as a digital tablet with a computer opens up several possibilities for digital artists and designers. You can mirror the content displayed on your computer directly to the iPad, use the iPad as a second monitor, or set it up for extended desktop use, allowing you to manage multiple windows simultaneously.

Examples of applications that can benefit from this setup include:

Photoshop (with custom brushes) Illustrator Blender

However, it's essential to consider the performance limitations. While the setup works, you may encounter lag and reduced performance, especially with resource-intensive applications like Photoshop with custom brushes. These custom brushes can significantly impact the performance of the software, leading to noticeable delays and reduced responsiveness.

Case Study: Digital Painting with Custom Brushes

I tested the setup primarily for digital painting using Photoshop, with a focus on custom brushes that I use frequently. Despite the potential benefits, the setup did not meet my expectations for the following reasons:

Significant Lag: Using custom brushes with the iPad setup resulted in substantial lag, making the painting process less fluid and less satisfying compared to using a traditional Wacom tablet. Limited Resources: While Photoshop works with the default brushes, the use of custom brushes often led to performance issues and lag. Alternative Applications: I experimented with other applications like Illustrator and Blender, but the lag remained a problem, leading to a less efficient workflow.

Given the significant performance issues, I ultimately decided to revert to using a traditional Wacom Intuos Pro tablet, which provides a more reliable and performant experience for digital painting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using an iPad as a digital tablet with a computer is possible through simple setup and software solutions. However, the performance and fluidity of the experience may be limited, especially when working with resource-intensive software like Photoshop with custom brushes. For the best and most consistent digital painting experience, investing in a traditional tablet like the Wacom Intuos Pro is a more reliable choice.

Regardless, the setup can still be useful for other applications and environments, such as an extended workspace for design projects, or as a secondary monitor for organizational purposes. It's worth exploring different setups and software options to find the best fit for your specific needs and preferences.