Can You Use Procreate with a Wacom Tablet?

If you are new to graphic design, you may have heard names like Wacom and Procreate thrown around. Both are fantastic tools for dabbling in graphic design. But can they be used together, or are you stuck picking one or the other?

Generally speaking, Procreate cannot be used with a Wacom Tablet. Procreate is an iOS program designed to work with various generations of the iPad. Since the Wacom tablet is not compatible to run on iOS, the two cannot be used together. 

For those just breaking into the world of graphic design and digital illustration, deciding which equipment to invest in is already a struggle. Understanding what is compatible and what isn’t, can make things even harder. Below, we’ll go over what can be used with Procreate and Wacom, and the pro and cons of using each one. 

Can Procreate Be Used with a Wacom Tablet?

Unfortunately, Procreate and Wacom come from very different worlds and cannot be used together. 

Procreate is an iOS program designed to run on the iPad. It is a digital illustration application that allows artists to create digitally, while maintaining the familiarity of working with pens and brushes. Over the years, Procreate has become a must-have tool for this reason. 

A Wacom tablet, on the other hand, is not a program but a type of input device designed for use on a computer, like a keyboard or a mouse. Except, where a keyboard is used for typing, a Wacom tablet is used for drawing and editing. While these actions can be done with a mouse depending on the program you’re using, a Wacom tablet is more precise and efficient, making it a favorite among artists. 

Wacom tablets also aren’t compatible with iOS. So even though one is a piece of equipment and the other is a program, since they run on different devices they can’t be used together. 

Is a Wacom Tablet or Procreate on iPad Better for Artists?

So, which should you choose as a beginning artist: Wacom or Procreate?

You’ll first want to take into account the type of equipment you already have on hand. If you just bought the latest iPad or tend to use Apple products, Procreate is more likely to suit your needs. If you’re an avid PC user, you may lean more towards Wacom.

However, if you have yet to purchase any equipment, it’s helpful to know what sets each one apart, so you can choose the drawing tablet that is best for you. 

Wacom vs iPad: Pros and Cons

The main difference between a Wacom tablet and using Procreate on an iPad is that Wacom needs to be connected to a computer and an iPad does not. This allows Procreate users to have more flexibility in choosing where they create. However, this also means that the iPad will need to be charged regularly, so it may not always be ready to use when it’s time to create. 

Another thing you’ll want to consider is the other software you like to use. While some programs like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator have app versions that can be used on iPad, they lack some of the features you may be used to using on a desktop. Other programs, on the other hand, don’t have app versions available at all. So, if you’re attached to your current software, you may prefer a Wacom tablet over an iPad with Procreate. 

Pro and cons aside, you aren’t necessarily limited to choosing one or the other. If you’ve got the budget for it, both the Wacom tablet and Procreate are great tools that are used by professionals and beginners alike. 

Can You Use a Wacom Stylus with Procreate on an iPad?

While this wasn’t always the case, the new Intuos Creative Stylus 2 from Wacom is compatible with the iPad. This is great for those who love to work at home and on the go. If you’re already a Wacom user but want to try out Procreate, you can easily switch from your tablet to your iPad without having to get comfortable with a new tool. 

Final Thoughts

While it would be nice to use Procreate with a Wacom tablet, it just isn’t possible. However, that doesn’t mean you have to pick one or the other. Both are great assets when it comes to graphic design. And the more programs and equipment you know how to use, the more flexible you can be what it’s time to create.

In the end, you should pick the drawing tablet that best suits your needs as an artist.