21+ Best Drawing Apps & Art Apps 2023 [UPDATED LIST]

Drawing has been an art form for centuries, but with the rise of technology, the world of drawing has been revolutionized by digital tools. 

Drawing apps have become increasingly popular among artists, designers, and hobbyists, allowing them to create digital art with ease and convenience. 

However, with so many drawing apps available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. 

In this article, we will review the best drawing apps available today, covering a range of features, capabilities, and platforms. 

Whether you’re a beginner or a professional artist, looking for a free or paid app, or using an iPad, Android tablet, or desktop computer, we’ve got you covered. 

So, let’s dive in and explore the best drawing apps to help bring your digital art to life.

How To Choose The Best Drawing App

Choosing the best drawing app can depend on several factors, including your skill level, artistic needs, and the type of device you’re using. Here are some tips on how to choose the best drawing app for your needs:

Determine your skill level

If you’re a beginner, you may want to look for drawing apps that are easy to use and have simple interfaces. If you’re a professional artist, you may need an app that offers advanced features and functionality.

Consider the type of art you create

If you specialize in creating sketches, you may want to look for apps with a variety of pencils and brushes. If you focus on digital painting, you may need an app with a range of color palettes and brush settings.

Look for compatibility with your device

Some drawing apps are only available on specific devices, such as iPads or Windows computers. Make sure the app you choose is compatible with your device.

Check the features and capabilities

Look for apps that offer the features you need, such as layer support, pen pressure sensitivity, and customizable brushes.

Read reviews and ratings

Check out reviews and ratings of different drawing apps to see what other users are saying about them. This can give you a good idea of the app’s strengths and weaknesses.

Consider the cost

Some drawing apps are free, while others require a one-time payment or a subscription. Consider your budget and choose an app that offers the features you need at a price you can afford.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best drawing app that suits your needs and helps you create the art you envision.

Comparing The Top Drawing Apps

What Is The Best Drawing App?

Below is a list of some of the best drawing apps available on the market today:

• Adobe Photoshop
• Procreate
• Adobe Illustrator Draw
• SketchBook 
• Adobe Fresco
• Corel Painter
• ArtRage
• Krita
• Adobe Illustrator 
• Affinity Designer
• CorelDRAW 

Best Drawing Apps For Sketching

Sketching apps are designed to help artists and designers create quick sketches and drawings. They often come with a range of drawing tools, including pens, pencils, and brushes.

1. Adobe Fresco

Best Drawing App For Combining Vector & Raster Based Tools

Adobe Fresco is a digital painting and drawing app developed by Adobe for iPad and Windows devices. 

It offers a wide range of brushes and tools, including vector brushes, raster brushes, and Live Brushes, which simulate the behavior of real-world media like oil paint, watercolor, and charcoal. 

Adobe Fresco also allows for seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps, such as Photoshop and Illustrator.

Adobe Fresco Key Features:

• Live Brushes: Adobe Fresco has a unique feature called Live Brushes, which simulate the behavior of real-world media like oil paint, watercolor, and charcoal. This allows artists to create realistic and expressive artwork on a digital platform.
• Vector and Raster Brushes: Adobe Fresco offers both vector and raster brushes, which give artists the flexibility to create artwork with both precision and natural-looking brush strokes.
• Seamless Integration: Adobe Fresco integrates seamlessly with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps, such as Photoshop and Illustrator.

 This means that artists can easily move their artwork between apps and work across multiple devices.

• Cloud Syncing: Adobe Fresco automatically syncs artwork to the cloud, allowing artists to access their work from any device with Adobe Fresco installed.
• Touch and Pressure Sensitivity: Adobe Fresco is optimized for touch and pressure sensitivity, which makes it easier for artists to create natural-looking brush strokes and control the opacity and thickness of their lines.

Adobe Fresco Compatibility:

Adobe Fresco is currently available on the following devices:

• iPad: Adobe Fresco is compatible with all iPad models that support Apple Pencil, including iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad Mini.
• Windows: Adobe Fresco is compatible with Windows 10 devices that support pen and touch input.
• iPhone: Adobe Fresco is compatible with iPhone 6 to iPhone 14

Adobe Fresco requires a minimum of 4GB of RAM and a graphics card with Direct X feature level 12.1 or later on Windows devices.

It requires an iPhone running iOS 14.3 or later with an Apple Pencil (1st or 2nd generation).

Adobe Fresco Pricing:

Adobe Fresco is available as part of the Adobe Creative Cloud subscription plans. There are several plans available, including:

• Creative Cloud Photography plan: This plan includes Adobe Fresco, as well as Photoshop and Lightroom. It is priced at $9.99 per month.
• Creative Cloud Single App plan: This plan includes access to a single app of your choice, such as Adobe Fresco, Photoshop, or Illustrator. It is priced at $20.99 per month.
• Creative Cloud All Apps plan: This plan includes access to all of the Adobe Creative Cloud apps, including Adobe Fresco, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and more. It is priced at $54.99 per month.

It’s worth noting that Adobe also offers special pricing for students, teachers, and schools. Additionally, Adobe occasionally offers discounts and promotions on its subscription plans.

Finally, Adobe Fresco is also available as a free trial for 7 days, after which you will need to subscribe to a Creative Cloud plan to continue using the app.

2. Procreate

Best Drawing App For iPad

Procreate is a popular digital painting and illustration app for iOS devices, developed by Savage Interactive. 

It is known for its wide range of brushes and tools, customizable user interface, and support for high-resolution artwork. 

Procreate has become a favorite among digital artists, designers, and illustrators, and has won multiple awards for its features and capabilities.

Procreate Key Features:

• User Interface: Procreate has a simple and intuitive user interface that is designed specifically for touch screens. It provides quick access to all the tools and features an artist needs to create artwork.
• Brush Library: Procreate has an extensive library of customizable brushes that simulate traditional art materials, such as pencils, inks, paints, and markers. It also allows artists to create their own custom brushes with a wide range of parameters to adjust.
• Layers: Procreate allows artists to work with multiple layers, making it easy to organize and edit different elements of their artwork. 

The layers feature is particularly useful for creating complex pieces or making changes to specific parts of an image without affecting the rest of the artwork.

• High-resolution: Procreate is optimized for high-resolution artwork, allowing artists to create detailed, professional-grade illustrations and designs.
• Export Options: Procreate offers a range of export options, including PNG, JPEG, PSD, and PDF, making it easy to share artwork across different platforms and devices.

Procreate Compatibility:

In terms of device compatibility, Procreate requires an iPad that supports the Apple Pencil. This includes the iPad Pro (any model), the iPad Air (3rd generation or later), the iPad (6th generation or later), and the iPad Mini (5th generation or later).

It is also important to note that Procreate has specific hardware and software requirements, and may not work on older or less powerful iOS devices. To use Procreate, your device must be running iOS 12.0 or later and have at least 4GB of RAM.

Procreate Pricing:

Procreate is a paid app, but the price is a one-time purchase rather than a subscription model. The app is currently priced at $12.99 USD on the App Store, with no additional fees or charges.

3. SketchBook

Best App For Natural Drawing

Sketchbook is a digital art software or drawing app developed by Autodesk that allows artists, designers, and illustrators to create digital artwork using a variety of tools and features. 

It is available on multiple platforms and has both free and paid versions with different levels of functionality.

The software offers a range of tools including brushes, pencils, markers, and layers, as well as a customizable interface that allows users to create and save their own brushes and tools. 

Sketchbook also includes a range of features such as symmetry tools, ruler guides, and a variety of blending modes that allow artists to create intricate and detailed artwork.

SketchBook Key Features:

• Intuitive User Interface: Sketchbook has an easy-to-use and customizable interface that allows artists to focus on their creativity without distractions. The UI is designed to make the most commonly used tools easily accessible and lets artists quickly switch between brushes, layers, and colors.
• Natural Drawing Experience: Sketchbook is designed to simulate the experience of traditional drawing and painting, with a range of realistic brushes and tools that feel natural and responsive. 

The software also supports pressure-sensitive styluses, making it a great option for artists who prefer to work on tablets.

• Powerful Tools: Sketchbook offers a range of powerful tools that allow artists to create complex and detailed artwork. These tools include symmetry, rulers, perspective guides, and blending modes, among others.

SketchBook Compatibility:

• Desktop computers: SketchBook is compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems.
• Mobile devices: SketchBook is available as a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. The app is optimized for touch input and works well with stylus pens.
• Web browser: SketchBook is also available as a web-based application that can be accessed through any modern web browser.
• File compatibility: SketchBook supports a range of file formats, including PSD, JPG, PNG, BMP, TIFF, and GIF. This makes it easy to import and export artwork created in SketchBook to other software and platforms.

SketchBook Pricing:

• SketchBook Free: This version of SketchBook is available at no cost and provides a range of basic features and tools for digital drawing and painting. Some of the features included in the free version are 16 customizable brushes, a range of layer blending modes, rulers and guides, and support for up to 3 layers.
• SketchBook Pro: This is the paid version of SketchBook that provides access to more advanced features and tools. SketchBook Pro is available through a subscription model, which means you need to pay a monthly or yearly fee to use it. The subscription fee includes access to additional brushes and tools, unlimited layers, the ability to import and export PSD files, and more. SketchBook Pro is available on both desktop and mobile platforms.

The pricing for SketchBook Pro varies depending on the platform and the subscription plan you choose. The desktop version of SketchBook Pro is available for $29.99 per year, while the mobile version is available for $4.99 per month or $29.99 per year.

4. Astropad Studio

Best Drawing App For Creatives

Astropad Studio is a drawing app that enables users to use their iPad as a graphics tablet for their Mac. 

It allows for high-resolution drawing and painting on the iPad, which is then mirrored on the Mac’s screen. 

Astropad Studio also supports pressure sensitivity and customizable shortcuts to streamline the creative workflow. 

It is a popular tool among digital artists and designers who want to use their iPad as a drawing tablet for their Mac.

Astropad Studio Key Features:

• High-quality drawing and painting: Astropad Studio uses advanced image processing technology to ensure that the user’s strokes are rendered on the Mac with high fidelity, and that there is minimal lag between the iPad and Mac.
• Pressure sensitivity: Astropad Studio supports pressure-sensitive styluses, which enables artists to create drawings and paintings with varying line weights and strokes that respond to the pressure applied to the stylus.
• Customizable shortcuts: Astropad Studio allows users to create their own keyboard shortcuts, which can be customized to their preferred drawing tools and software.
• Multi-touch gestures: Astropad Studio supports multi-touch gestures, which enable users to perform actions such as zooming and panning with ease.
• Compatibility with popular software: Astropad Studio is compatible with a wide range of creative software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Lightroom, as well as Sketch, Corel Painter, and many more.
• Wireless connectivity: Astropad Studio can be connected to the Mac wirelessly, which provides greater freedom of movement for the user.

Astropad Studio Compatibility:

• Mac: Astropad Studio works with macOS 10.14 or later, including the latest macOS Monterey. It supports both Intel-based and Apple M1-based Macs.
• iPad: Astropad Studio requires an iPad running iOS 12.4 or later. It supports all iPad models that are compatible with iOS 12.4 or later, including the latest iPadOS.
• Windows: Astropad Studio is also available for Windows 10 or later, and it supports both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
• Android: Astropad Studio has a beta version for Android devices, which requires Android 7.0 or later and a compatible stylus. However, the Android version is not as fully-featured as the iOS version.

Astropad Studio Pricing:

• Annual subscription: $99.99/year

Best Vector Drawing Apps

Vector drawing apps are ideal for creating illustrations, logos, and other graphics that need to be scalable. They use mathematical formulas to create images that can be resized without losing quality.

1. Adobe Illustrator

Best Drawing App For Vector Graphics

Adobe Illustrator is a popular drawing app that has been around since the mid-1980s. 

It allows users to create high-quality, scalable graphics that can be used in a variety of mediums, such as print, web, and mobile applications. 

The software is known for its precision, flexibility, and range of tools that enable designers to create complex shapes, patterns, and textures. 

With its advanced features like gradient meshes, perspective grids, and 3D effects, Adobe Illustrator is a powerful tool for creating visually appealing graphics that can be used for branding, marketing, and other creative purposes. 

It is widely used in various industries such as advertising, publishing, and multimedia design.

Adobe Illustrator Key Features:

• Vector graphics: Adobe Illustrator is a vector-based drawing app, which means that all graphics created in Illustrator are based on mathematical equations rather than pixels. This allows for graphics to be scaled up or down without losing quality, making it ideal for creating logos, icons, and other graphics that need to be used at different sizes.
• Precision and accuracy: Illustrator provides users with a range of precise tools and controls that enable them to create complex shapes, patterns, and designs with a high level of accuracy. This includes features such as grids, rulers, and alignment tools, which make it easier to create perfectly aligned designs.
• Customizable brushes and effects: Illustrator allows users to create custom brushes and apply a wide range of effects, such as gradients, shadows, and textures, to their designs. This enables designers to create unique and visually appealing graphics.
• Integration with other Adobe apps: Illustrator is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite of apps, which means that it integrates seamlessly with other Adobe apps like Photoshop and InDesign. This makes it easier for designers to work across different design projects and collaborate with other team members.

Adobe Illustrator Compatibility:

Adobe Illustrator is available for both Windows and Mac operating systems. The latest version of Adobe Illustrator requires at least Windows 10 or macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or higher. However, earlier versions of Adobe Illustrator may be compatible with older operating systems.

Adobe Illustrator Pricing:

Adobe Illustrator is available through Adobe’s Creative Cloud subscription service. The subscription includes access to Illustrator as well as other Adobe apps such as Photoshop, InDesign, and Premiere Pro. 

2. Affinity Designer

Best Affordable Drawing App For Vector Graphics

Affinity Designer is a vector graphics editor developed by Serif for macOS, iOS, and Windows operating systems. 

It is often compared to Adobe Illustrator, as they are both powerful vector design tools used for creating graphics, illustrations, logos, and other design assets. 

Affinity Designer offers a range of features, including support for multiple artboards, precise pen and shape tools, customizable grids and guides, live effects, and a range of export options.

Affinity Designer Key Features:

• Non-destructive editing: Affinity Designer allows you to work in a non-destructive way, meaning you can edit your design without permanently altering the original artwork. 
• Live shapes and corners: Affinity Designer allows you to create and edit shapes and corners in real-time, without the need to redraw the shape. 
• Advanced typography tools: Affinity Designer has a range of advanced typography tools that allow you to control every aspect of your text. You can adjust letter spacing, line height, and alignment, and even create custom text styles for reuse.
• Multiple artboards: Affinity Designer allows you to work with multiple artboards in a single document.

• Symbols: Affinity Designer allows you to create and use symbols, which are reusable elements that can be edited globally. 
• Vector brush engine: Affinity Designer has a powerful vector brush engine that allows you to create a wide range of natural-looking brush strokes. 
• Export persona: Affinity Designer has an export persona that allows you to export your designs in a range of file formats, sizes, and resolutions. 

Affinity Designer System Requirements:

For macOS:

• macOS 10.9 Mavericks or later
• Intel 64-bit processor
• 2GB RAM (4GB recommended)
• 1GB free hard disk space
• 1280×768 display resolution (Retina recommended)

For Windows:

• Windows 10 (64-bit)
• Intel Core 2 Duo, AMD Athlon 64 X2, or newer processor
• 2GB RAM (4GB recommended)
• 1GB free hard disk space
• DirectX 10-compatible graphics card
• 1280×768 display resolution (Retina recommended)

For iPad:

• iPadOS 13.2 or later
• iPad Pro, iPad Air 3rd generation, iPad (5th generation) or later
• Apple Pencil (optional)
• 2GB RAM (3GB recommended)
• 1GB free storage space

Affinity Designer Pricing:

• macOS: Affinity Designer for macOS is available for purchase on the Mac App Store for $69.99 USD.
• Windows: Affinity Designer for Windows is available for purchase on the Affinity website for $69.99 USD.
• iPad: Affinity Designer for iPad is available for purchase on the App Store for $19.99 USD.

3. CorelDRAW

Best Drawing App For Layout Designs

CorelDRAW is another popular vector graphics drawing app developed and marketed by Corel Corporation. 

It is widely used by graphic designers and other professionals to create a variety of digital art, illustrations, and other graphical content. 

The software offers a wide range of tools and features, such as bezier curves, layers, text handling, and special effects, to help users create high-quality vector-based artwork.

CorelDRAW Key Features:

• Vector Graphics Editing: CorelDRAW is primarily used for creating vector graphics, which are scalable and can be edited without losing quality. The software offers a variety of tools for creating and editing vector shapes, lines, and curves.
• Layout Design: CorelDRAW also includes tools for designing layouts, such as brochures, posters, and other print materials. Users can use grids, rulers, and guidelines to create precise layouts.
• Typography: CorelDRAW offers a variety of tools for working with text, including advanced typographic controls, OpenType support, and the ability to convert text to curves.
• Photo Editing: CorelDRAW includes a range of photo editing tools, including the ability to adjust brightness and contrast, remove blemishes, and crop and resize images.

• Special Effects: CorelDRAW includes a range of special effects, such as shadows, glows, and transparency, which can be applied to objects and text.
• Color Management: CorelDRAW includes tools for managing color, including the ability to create custom color palettes and match colors across multiple objects.
• Collaboration: CorelDRAW allows multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously, making it easy to collaborate with others.

CorelDRAW System Requirements:

It’s worth noting that these are the minimum requirements, and for optimal performance, a more powerful computer configuration may be recommended.

CorelDRAW Pricing:

It’s worth noting that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on your location and currency. Additionally, Corel often runs promotional discounts on their website, so it’s a good idea to check their website for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Best Drawing Apps For Painting

Painting apps are more advanced than sketching apps, and they often offer more sophisticated tools for creating digital paintings. These tools may include layers, color palettes, and advanced brushes.

1. Corel Painter

Best Painting App For Professionals

Corel Painter is known for its advanced digital painting and natural media simulation capabilities, which allow users to create artwork that looks like it was made with traditional art materials such as oil paint, watercolor, and charcoal. 

It is available for both Windows and Mac operating systems, and it includes a wide range of tools and features that are designed to help artists create their work in a digital environment.

Corel Painter Key Features:

• Natural media simulation: Corel Painter is known for its highly advanced natural media simulation capabilities. The drawing app can mimic the effects of traditional art materials such as oil paint, watercolor, charcoal, and pastel, allowing artists to create artwork that looks and feels like it was made with physical media.
• Brush customization: Corel Painter provides users with a vast library of brushes, and each brush can be customized to suit an artist’s specific needs. Users can adjust everything from brush shape and texture to opacity and flow, allowing for maximum creative control.
• Layer-Based Editing: Corel Painter offers a layer-based editing system that allows artists to work on different parts of their artwork separately. This feature makes it easier to experiment with different effects and to make changes without affecting the entire image.
• Support for Tablets and Stylus: Corel Painter is designed to work seamlessly with a range of tablets and stylus devices, allowing artists to create digital artwork with the same level of precision and control as they would with traditional media.
• AI-Powered Features: Corel Painter includes several AI-powered features, such as AI Style Transfer, which allows artists to apply different art styles to their artwork with just a few clicks.

Corel Painter Compatibility:

It’s worth noting that Corel Painter may require additional system resources depending on the complexity of the artwork being created.

Corel Painter Pricing:

Corel Painter is available as a subscription-based service and as a perpetual license. Here are the current pricing options:

Subscription:

• Monthly subscription: $29.95 per month
• Annual subscription: $239.88 per year (equivalent to $19.99 per month)

Perpetual license:

• Corel Painter 2022: $429.00 (one-time payment)

2. ArtRage

Best Drawing App For Realistic Simulation

ArtRage is a digital art software program developed by Ambient Design Ltd. 

It allows users to create digital paintings and drawings with a range of realistic tools, including oil paints, watercolors, pencils, and more. 

The software is available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, and is popular among artists and hobbyists alike. 

ArtRage is known for its realistic simulation of traditional art materials, as well as its user-friendly interface and affordable price.

ArtRage Key Features:

• Realistic tools: ArtRage offers a variety of realistic digital tools, including oil paints, watercolors, pencils, markers, and more. Each tool is designed to mimic the behavior of its real-world counterpart, giving users a more authentic painting experience.
• Customizable canvas: Users can customize their canvas size, color, and texture to create the perfect backdrop for their artwork.
• Layers: ArtRage offers a layer-based system that allows users to work on different parts of their artwork separately. This makes it easy to make changes without affecting the rest of the artwork.
• Stencils and tracing: ArtRage offers a range of stencils and tracing features, making it easy for users to add intricate details to their artwork.

ArtRage Compatibility:

• Windows: ArtRage is compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7.
• Mac: ArtRage is compatible with macOS 10.14 or later.
• iOS: ArtRage is compatible with iOS 12.0 or later and works on iPads with Apple Pencil support.
• Android: ArtRage is compatible with Android 4.4 or later and works on devices that support pressure-sensitive styluses.
• Hardware: ArtRage works best with a graphics tablet or stylus, as these devices provide more precise control than a mouse or trackpad.

ArtRage Pricing:

• ArtRage 6 for Windows and macOS: This is the latest version of ArtRage and is available for a one-time purchase price of $79.90.
• ArtRage for iOS and Android: ArtRage is available on the App Store and Google Play Store for a one-time purchase price of $4.99.
• ArtRage Lite: This is a simplified version of ArtRage 6, available for Windows and macOS. It is available as a one-time purchase for $29.90.
• ArtRage Demo: A free demo version of ArtRage is available for Windows and macOS, which allows users to try the software before purchasing the full version.

3. Krita

Best Free Drawing App For Painting

Krita is a free and open-source digital painting software designed for artists, illustrators, and animators. 

It is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms and provides a range of features such as brush engines, layer management, vector drawing tools, color palettes, and support for various file formats. 

Krita is a popular tool among digital artists and is often used for creating concept art, comics, and textures.

Krita Key Features:

• Brush Engines: Krita offers over 10 brush engines, including pixel, smudge, and soft brushes, that can be customized to create various effects.
• Layer Management: Krita’s layer management system allows you to work with multiple layers, organize and group them, and apply layer masks and blending modes.
• Vector Drawing Tools: Krita provides vector drawing tools that can be used for creating precise shapes, paths, and text.
• Color Management: Krita has a powerful color management system that supports multiple color spaces, color profiles, and color models, making it easy to work with different types of files.
• Animation Support: Krita offers basic animation support, allowing you to create frame-by-frame animations, set frame rates, and export animations as GIF or video files.
• PSD Compatibility: Krita supports opening and saving PSD files, making it easy to work with files created in Adobe Photoshop.

Krita Compatibility:

• Operating Systems: Krita is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.
• File Formats: Krita supports various file formats, including PSD, JPEG, PNG, TIFF, BMP, GIF, and many more. Additionally, Krita also supports importing and exporting files in popular formats used by other software, such as Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, and Clip Studio Paint.
• Hardware: Krita is optimized for use with pen tablets and supports a variety of input devices, including Wacom, Huion, and XP-Pen tablets. It also supports touchscreens and high-density displays, making it easy to work on different devices.
• System Requirements: The system requirements for Krita depend on the operating system and version you are using. Generally, Krita requires a 64-bit processor and at least 4GB of RAM for optimal performance.

Krita Pricing:

Krita is a free and open-source software, which means it’s available for anyone to download and use for free.

Best Drawing Apps For 3D Modeling

3D modeling apps are used to create three-dimensional models of objects and characters. They often come with a range of tools for creating and manipulating 3D shapes and textures.

1. Autodesk Maya

Autodesk Maya is a 3D computer graphics software that is widely used in the film, TV, video game, and advertising industries. 

It is a powerful tool for creating 3D animations, simulations, and visual effects. Maya was developed by Autodesk, Inc. and was first released in 1998. 

It has since become one of the most popular 3D animation software packages on the market.

Audodesk Maya Key Features:

• 3D Modeling: Maya offers a robust set of modeling tools that allow you to create and manipulate 3D objects with ease. 
• Animation: Maya is known for its powerful animation tools. You can create keyframe animations, motion paths, and character rigs to bring your models to life.
• Visual Effects: Maya has a wide range of tools for creating visual effects. You can use particle systems, dynamics, and fluid simulations to create realistic effects such as fire, smoke, and water.

Autodesk Maya Pricing:

Autodesk Maya is a commercial software package, which means you have to pay for a license to use it. The pricing for Maya depends on several factors, including the type of license, the length of the subscription, and the country you are in.

Best Drawing Apps For Animation

Animation apps are used to create animated movies, cartoons, and other motion graphics. They often come with a timeline-based interface that allows animators to create and edit frames.

1. Adobe Animate

Best For Design Interactive Animations

Adobe Animate is a multimedia authoring and computer animation program developed by Adobe Systems. 

It is used for creating interactive animations, cartoons, and other rich media content for web, desktop, mobile, and other platforms. 

Adobe Animate allows users to design vector graphics, create interactive animations with scripting, and publish them to various platforms including HTML5 Canvas, WebGL, Flash, and AIR. 

It also supports a range of multimedia formats such as audio and video.

Adobe Animate Key Features:

• Vector Drawing Tools: Adobe Animate provides robust vector drawing tools that allow you to create and edit vector graphics with ease. 
• Timeline and Animation Tools: Adobe Animate’s timeline and animation tools are designed to make animation creation easy and intuitive. You can create keyframes, add motion tweens, and use built-in easing functions to create smooth animations.
• Scripting Support: Adobe Animate allows you to use JavaScript, ActionScript, and other scripting languages to add interactivity and functionality to your animations. 
• Multiplatform Output: Adobe Animate supports publishing to multiple platforms, including HTML5 Canvas, WebGL, Flash, and AIR. 
• Collaboration and Sharing: Adobe Animate allows you to collaborate with other designers and developers using Creative Cloud Libraries. 
• Responsive Design: Adobe Animate provides features that allow you to create animations that are optimized for various screen sizes and resolutions. 

Adobe Animate Pricing:

Adobe Animate is available through Adobe Creative Cloud, which offers various pricing plans depending on your needs.

2. Harmony 22

Best For 2D Animation

Harmony 22 is a professional animation software developed by Toon Boom Animation Inc. It is designed for animators and artists who want to create traditional, hand-drawn, and digital animation. 

Harmony 22 offers a variety of features such as vector and bitmap drawing tools, 2D rigging and animation, special effects, compositing, and 3D camera movements. 

It also includes collaboration tools that allow teams to work together on a project in real-time. Harmony 22 is widely used in the animation industry for TV shows, films, and commercials.

Best Drawing Apps For Coloring

Coloring apps are designed for kids and adults who enjoy coloring books. They often come with a range of digital coloring tools and pages that users can color in.

1. Colorfy

Colorfy is a popular mobile application that allows users to relax and unwind by coloring various designs and patterns. 

The app provides a wide range of coloring pages, including mandalas, animals, florals, and other abstract designs, and offers a variety of coloring tools and effects to enhance the user’s experience. 

Colorfy is available for both iOS and Android devices and has gained a significant following among people who enjoy coloring as a form of stress relief or artistic expression.

Colorfy Key Features:

• Wide range of coloring pages to choose from, including mandalas, animals, florals, and other abstract designs.
• Variety of coloring tools and effects, such as markers, brushes, and gradients, to enhance the coloring experience.
• Ability to customize colors and create unique color palettes.
• Option to save and share completed artwork with friends and family.
• Daily updates with new coloring pages and designs.
• Integration with social media platforms, allowing users to share their artwork on Instagram, Facebook, and other sites.
• No internet connection required to access coloring pages and designs.
• Ad-free version available for purchase.

Colorfy Compatibility:

• iOS
• Android

2. Happy Color

Best Drawing App For Coloring By Number

Happy Color is a popular mobile drawing app that allows users to color by number. 

It offers a wide variety of coloring pages, including animals, mandalas, landscapes, and more. 

Users can choose from a large selection of colors and shades to fill in the numbered areas of the picture. 

Happy Color is designed to be a relaxing and enjoyable activity that can help reduce stress and anxiety. The app is available on both iOS and Android devices.

Happy Color Key Features:

• Large selection of coloring pages, including animals, mandalas, landscapes, and more.
• Coloring by number system, making it easy to create beautiful, detailed artworks.
• Wide variety of colors and shades to choose from.
• Ability to save and share completed artworks with friends and family.
• Daily updates with new coloring pages.
• Ability to zoom in and out for more precise coloring.
• Relaxing background music and sounds.

Happy Color Compatibility:

Happy Color is compatible with a wide range of devices, including:

• iOS devices running iOS 10.0 or later, such as iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
• Android devices running Android 4.4 and up, such as smartphones and tablets.
• It can also be played on desktop and laptop computers by accessing the Happy Color website through a web browser.

What is a Drawing App?

A drawing app is a software application designed for creating digital art on a computer or mobile device. 

It allows users to draw, paint, or create graphics using various tools and techniques, often mimicking traditional art mediums like pencils, pens, and brushes. 

Drawing apps can range from simple tools with limited features to more advanced software with extensive functionality for professional artists, graphic designers, or animators.

Drawing apps typically offer a range of features such as brush and pen tools, layers, color palettes, and export options. They may also include additional features like shape tools, text tools, filters, and effects. Some drawing apps also offer integration with other software or services, allowing for easy sharing and collaboration.

Drawing apps can be used for a wide variety of purposes, including digital painting, illustration, graphic design, comic book creation, 3D modeling, animation, and more. They have become increasingly popular in recent years due to the rise of digital art and the convenience and flexibility they offer for creating art on-the-go.

Features To Look For When Choosing A Drawing App

When choosing a drawing app, there are several features to consider that can help you create the kind of art you want. Here are some key features to look for:

Brush and Tool Selection

Look for a drawing app that offers a wide range of brushes, pens, pencils, and other tools that can help you create the specific type of art you want. Some apps also offer the ability to customize brush and tool settings.

Layer Management

Look for a drawing app that offers layer management capabilities, which allow you to create, manage, and manipulate layers of your artwork. This feature is particularly important for more advanced or complex pieces of art.

File Formats and Export Options

Make sure the drawing app can export your artwork in a file format that is compatible with other software or tools you use. Additionally, consider the quality of the export options, such as resolution and file size.

Color Management

Choose a drawing app that offers color management features, which allow you to create and manage color palettes, adjust color settings, and select colors from a color wheel or other system.

User Interface

Consider the drawing app’s user interface and how easy it is to navigate. Look for an app that offers a clear and intuitive interface, customizable settings, and a good selection of tools.

Support for Stylus or Apple Pencil

If you plan to use a stylus or Apple Pencil, make sure the drawing app supports these devices and offers features that are optimized for them.

Integration with Cloud Services

Look for an app that integrates with cloud services such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud, so you can easily access your artwork from multiple devices and share it with others.

By considering these features, you can find a drawing app that offers the tools and functionality you need to create the kind of art you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many great drawing apps available that cater to different needs and skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist, there is an app out there that can help you create the kind of digital art you want. By considering the features, platform, user interface, price, and reviews, you can find a drawing app that meets your needs and preferences. With the right drawing app, you can unleash your creativity and bring your ideas to life on a digital canvas.

Last updated on August 2nd, 2023 at 07:04 am