If you are looking for Procreate alternatives, check this article.
Procreate has set a high bar for digital art applications. Artists love it for its intuitive interface and robust features.
But if you’re using a non-iOS device, or you’re on the lookout for an alternative that suits your needs and budget, you’re in luck.
There’s a variety of drawing software available that caters to both professional artists and hobbyists.
Many of these alternatives offer their own unique set of brushes, intuitive interfaces, and compatibility across various platforms.
Some, like Adobe Photoshop, bring a rich legacy of photo editing to the table.
Others, such as Krita or Autodesk Sketchbook, stand out with specialized features for digital painting at no cost.
Whether you’re inclined towards vector art, need something that supports your Windows 10 device, or simply want a free app for sketching on the go, there’s likely a Procreate alternative that aligns with your needs.
Understanding the nuances of each alternative can maximize your creative workflow and ensure you choose the best tool for your artwork.
As you explore these options, consider what you value most—whether it’s the precision of the brushes, the user-friendliness of the interface, or the community and support surrounding the software.
Each has its strengths, and the right choice can unlock new horizons for your digital art journey.
Best Procreate Alternatives
If you’re looking for a digital art tool that matches Procreate’s capabilities but caters to different platforms or preferences, several options stand out for their features and usability.
The alternatives listed here offer a range of tools suitable for professional artists as well as hobbyists.
Adobe Fresco
Adobe Fresco is designed for artists who specialize in painting and drawing.
It boasts live brushes that mimic the physics of real-world watercolors and oils, allowing for a natural painting experience.
You’ll find vector and raster brushes, a feature not commonly available in other apps.
Compatibility: Windows, iOS
Pricing: Free starter plan; Paid versions available
Key Feature: Live brushes simulate real paint
Affinity Designer
Affinity Designer is a vector graphic design tool that rivals Procreate in precision and versatility.
It’s excellent for illustration, branding, icon design, and UI/UX work, supporting both vector and raster workspaces.
Compatibility: Windows, macOS, iOS
Pricing: One-time purchase
Key Feature: Persona feature allows you to switch between vector and pixel workspaces
Sketchbook
Autodesk Sketchbook is known for its straightforward interface and robust drawing capabilities.
It was once a paid app but is now free for all users, offering a full suite of sketching tools that make it a top pick for both beginners and professionals.
Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
Pricing: Free
Key Feature: Easy-to-use interface with customizable brushes
Features Comparison
In exploring Procreate alternatives, you’ll find that each offers distinct advantages in terms of user interface, brush libraries, and vector capabilities.
User Interface
When you use Adobe Photoshop, expect a robust interface that’s packed with features, providing a comprehensive toolset ideal for detailed image editing and manipulation.
In contrast, Procreate streamlines the experience, offering an intuitive interface that’s easier to navigate for illustrators.
Brush Libraries
Procreate boasts a vast, customizable brush library that suits various artistic styles and techniques.
Adobe Photoshop also has an extensive brush collection with high customization options.
Meanwhile, Krita and Sketchbook are known for their strong brush engines that cater well to digital artists.
Vector Capabilities
For vector artwork, Adobe Illustrator is a powerhouse with precise control over vector shapes and lines.
While Procreate has some vector tools, they are not as advanced.
However, solutions like Affinity Designer bring robust vector features to the table, making it a strong alternative for vector illustrators.
Platform Availability
When seeking alternatives to Procreate, your choice might largely depend on which device you’re using.
Explore options tailored for iPad, desktop, or Android environments.
iPad Alternatives
For iPad users looking for a drawing app similar to Procreate, Adobe Fresco is a strong contender.
It offers a blend of raster and vector tools.
It’s subscription-based but comes with a free version with limited features.
Another notable app is Ibis Paint, known for its versatility and smooth performance.
Desktop Alternatives
On the desktop side, Autodesk Sketchbook provides professional-grade tools and is free to use.
If you’re a Mac user, you might miss Procreate, but Adobe Photoshop offers extensive capabilities that cater to professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Android Alternatives
For Android tablet users, MediBang Paint and Infinite Painter are two robust alternatives that offer diverse brush libraries and intuitive interfaces.
Meanwhile, Adobe Photoshop Sketch, although not as feature-rich as its desktop counterpart, allows for precise sketching and drawing.
Price Analysis
When exploring alternatives to Procreate, you’ll find a range of free and paid options, each with their own pricing models.
Let’s break down what you can expect to pay if you choose to go with a different app.
Free vs. Paid Options
Free Alternatives:
- Autodesk Sketchbook: Completely free
- Krita: Open-source and free
- Tayasui Sketches: Free version available
Paid Alternatives:
- Adobe Photoshop: Subscription-based, starting around $20.99/month
- Adobe Fresco: Subscription starting from $9.99/month
- Painter 2022: One-time purchase, typically around $429
You should note that many free apps offer in-app purchases to unlock additional features.
Subscription Models
Adobe Photoshop:
- Monthly Plan: $20.99/month
- Annual Plan (paid monthly): $239.88/year
Adobe Fresco:
- Monthly Plan: $9.99/month
- Adobe Creative Cloud Integration offers more value
Subscription-based models usually offer periodic updates and cloud integration, enhancing the value of the software over time.
Remember that prices can vary based on sales, promotions, and bundles, so always check the latest prices on the official websites or app stores.
Key Takeaways
When searching for alternatives to the Procreate app, you have numerous options.
Here’s a concise list to help you navigate your choices:
- Adobe Photoshop: A powerhouse for digital art with extensive features.
- Adobe Fresco: Offers live brushes and a mix of raster and vector tools.
- Autodesk Sketchbook: A professional-grade drawing app known for its natural drawing experience.
- ibis Paint X: Popular for its smooth drawing experience and a vast array of brushes.
- Krita: An open source application, free to use and packed with features for digital painting and illustration.
Different applications cater to varying skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists.
- Versatility: Apps like Adobe Photoshop provide a wide array of tools for both drawing and photo editing.
- Affordability: Krita and Autodesk Sketchbook are free and offer a robust set of features.
- User-Friendly Interface: Apps such as ibis Paint X and Adobe Fresco are designed with an intuitive user interface, making your drawing experience seamless.
- Community and Support: Platforms like Adobe Photoshop have extensive communities and tutorials available to help you make the most of the software.
Remember to prioritize your specific needs, such as the types of brushes you prefer, ease of interface, and the level of sophistication you require for your digital artistry.