Question:

What software can I use to connect my iPad and Apple Pencil to my laptop for graphic design purposes?

I am looking for a software solution that can enable me to use my iPad as a drawing tablet and my Apple Pencil as a stylus for graphic design projects on my laptop. I need the software to be compatible with both Windows and Mac OS, and to support real-time input transmission and pressure sensitivity. Thank you for your assistance.

Answer:

If you have an iPad and an Apple Pencil, you might wonder if you can use them as a drawing tablet and a stylus for your laptop. The good news is that there are some software solutions that can enable you to do just that. In this article, we will introduce some of the best software options for connecting your iPad and Apple Pencil to your laptop for graphic design purposes.

Astropad Studio

Astropad Studio is a premium software that lets you turn your iPad into a professional drawing tablet for your Mac. It supports Apple Pencil and touch gestures, and offers high performance, low latency, and customizable shortcuts. You can use Astropad Studio with any Mac app, such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Affinity Designer, and more. You can connect your iPad to your Mac via WiFi or USB, and enjoy a seamless drawing experience. Astropad Studio requires a subscription of $11.99 per month or $79.99 per year, but you can try it for free for 30 days. [Learn more].

Project Blue

Project Blue is a beta software that allows you to use your iPad as a drawing tablet for your Windows PC. It is developed by the same team behind Astropad Studio, and it works similarly. You can mirror your PC display on your iPad and draw, illustrate, and design directly into Windows apps like Photoshop, Illustrator, Blender, ZBrush, and more. Project Blue is optimized for Apple Pencil and touch gestures, and can be used over WiFi or wired via USB. Project Blue is currently in beta testing, and you can sign up to join the waitlist. [Learn more].

EasyCanvas

EasyCanvas is another software that lets you use your iPad as a drawing tablet for your Windows or Mac PC. It supports Apple Pencil and touch gestures, and offers various features such as palm rejection, pressure sensitivity, and shortcut keys. You can use EasyCanvas with any PC app, such as Photoshop, Clip Studio Paint, SketchBook, and more. You can connect your iPad to your PC via WiFi or USB, and enjoy a smooth drawing experience. EasyCanvas costs $11.99 for a one-time purchase, but you can try it for free for 14 days. [Learn more].

Duet Display

Duet Display is a software that lets you use your iPad as a second screen for your Windows or Mac PC. It supports Apple Pencil and touch gestures, and offers high resolution, low latency, and battery efficiency. You can use Duet Display with any PC app, and extend your workspace or mirror your display. You can connect your iPad to your PC via USB, and enjoy a fast and reliable connection. Duet Display costs $9.99 for a one-time purchase, but you can upgrade to Duet Pro for $19.99 per year to unlock more features such as pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and customizable shortcuts. [Learn more].

Sidecar

Sidecar is a built-in feature of macOS Catalina and later that lets you use your iPad as a second display or a drawing tablet for your Mac. It supports Apple Pencil and touch gestures, and offers various features such as Sidecar preferences, Touch Bar, and Sidebar. You can use Sidecar with any Mac app that supports stylus input, such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketch, and more. You can connect your iPad to your Mac via WiFi or USB, and enjoy a seamless integration. Sidecar is free to use, but it requires a compatible Mac and iPad model. [Learn more].

These are some of the best software options for connecting your iPad and Apple Pencil to your laptop for graphic design purposes. Depending on your needs, preferences, and budget, you can choose the one that suits you best. We hope this article was helpful and informative. Thank you for your attention..