Adobe Illustrator is a premier program for all types of designers. While it was first made for computers, the software can now be used on tablets through an excellent app.
That additional functionality is incredibly useful and enhances the different ways you can take advantage of the program. You just need the right device for it.
When choosing a tablet for Adobe Illustrator, there are many options out there. The below models provide you with great specs, some excellent displays, and amazing graphics.
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Who Should Get This
Regardless of if you already know the ropes or if you’re just starting out, every tablet listed here is great for users of Adobe Illustrator.
The models are all unique, but they each have a slew of characteristics that help the program run at full blast.
It’s also worth mentioning that, as the tablets excel in terms of display and processing power, they are great day-to-day machines.
If you’re someone who wants a high-quality device for work or play, it’s hard to find any better hand-held devices on the market.
Best Tablet for Adobe Illustrator: Our Picks
This section covers the best Illustrator tablets by studying their traits and individual niches.
1. Samsung Galaxy Tab S6
- Best For: Overall
- Key Features: Octa-core processor. 4GB RAM. Beautiful display and sharp coloration. Octa-core processor. 13-hour battery.
- Screen Size: 10.4 inches
- Dimensions: 0.28 x 6.07 x 9.63 inches
- Memory: 64GB, 128GB
The Tab6 is one of the best tablets for Adobe Illustrator because of how well it utilizes its top-of-the-line specs. It’s an incredibly powerful device that’s equipped with good internal memory, plenty of storage space, and an impressive octa-core processor.
Backing that up is one of the best batteries around. It comes with an incredibly long-lasting battery that allows you to work for hours and hours without ever stopping. The 10-inch screen looks amazing, and the tablet manages to be large without becoming unruly.
It’s not the most durable option on the market, which is sur[prising given the brand, but if you’re a careful person it will easily exceed all of your Adobe needs.
2. Wacom One
- Best For: Responsiveness
- Key Features: Thousands of pressure sensitivity levels. Sleek-but-simple design. Large screen. Bright display. Battery-free pen.
- Screen Size: 13.3 inches
- Dimensions: 8.86 x 14.05 x 0.57 inches
- Weight: 4.2 ounces
The Wacom One is a large, bright tablet equipped with some of the best responsiveness around. It’s perfect for Adobe, not just because of the incredible resolution, but because it comes with 4096 pressure sensitivity levels and a battery-free pen.
Adding to that is the solid construction, which creates a nice layer of reliability, as well as the streamlined interface. Both beginners and professionals can use the ample features. There’s also a full HD display and a great-looking 16:9 aspect ratio.
There’s no multi-finger touch with this one, and some people might not like the unique design compared to more traditional models, but it’s still a solid option.
3. iPad Pro
- Best For: Versatility
- Key Features: A12Z bionic chip and 64-bit M12 coprocessor. P3 color gamut. 10-hour battery life. Various SSD options.
- Screen Size: 12.9 inches
- Dimensions: 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches
- Memory: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
The iPad has long been one of the best tablets around, and that continues to be true to this day. While it’s not exclusively for Adobe Illustrator, the machine’s resolution and bright Retina display make everything you do on it absolutely pop in a way that few tablets can match.
As it’s an Apple product, you also get the slick modern look packed with impressive specs like the A12Z bionic chip and 64-bit M12 coprocessor. It also serves a ton of functions beyond Illustrator. If you want a well-rounded option you can use in daily life, the Pro is it.
You are going to have to pay more for this model. It’s quite expensive, which can put it out of some people’s budget, but the quality is worth it.
4. Microsoft Surface Pro 7
- Best For: Functionality
- Key Features: 10.5-hour battery life. Lightweight. 2-in-1 design. Crisp resolution and strong processing power.
- Screen Size: 12.3 inches
- Dimensions: 11.5 x 7.9 x 0.3 inches
- Memory: 128GB
Sometimes you want to work on a tablet, sometimes it’s nice to have a computer. The Surface Pro 7 gives you both. The device has full 2-in-1 functionality, which is incredibly useful for people who like to work in different ways. It’s amazing for relaxation as well.
Backing up the design is long 10.5-hour battery life, quick charging capabilities, and a variety of ports. You can connect it to just about anything you need. The interface is also clean and allows for multitasking.
The tablet is a little bit bulkier than other popular options, but that’s not a deal-breaker by any means. Just prepare for the extra weight and you’ll be fine.
5. Huion Kamvas Pro 16
- Best For: Display
- Key Features: Glare-free screen. Full HD resolution. Hands free stand and a responsive stylus. Strong battery life.
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Dimensions: 17.24 x 9.88 x .47 inches
- Weight: 3 pounds
Fully equipped with a vivid 15.6-inch screen, true-to-life colors, and full HD resolution, the Huion Kamvas Pro 16 is a tablet with a big focus on display. That, combined with the long battery life and excellent stylus, is what makes it a great choice for Adobe Illustrator.
It’s anti-glare and incredibly sturdy. The entire build has an extra level of strength you don’t find in most modern tablets. It can also be customized through the 6 express keys and touch bar to make everything fit your preferences.
This is a heavier model and the interface can take some getting used to. However, those who are willing to work with it a bit will come to enjoy everything it has to offer.
6. KingPad K10 Pro
- Best For: Budget
- Key Features: Bright screen. Affordable price tag. Strong stylus pen. Full HD screen. Dual speakers.
- Screen Size: 10.1 inches
- Dimensions: 15.51 x 8.27 x 1.54 inches
- Memory: 64GB
Though it’s easy to spend a lot on a tablet, you don’t need to shell out too much for quality. The K10 Pro is a great option for users who want a strong Illustrator device that won’t break the bank. It looks great, comes with an excellent stylus, and has strong, clear audio.
The tablet is sturdy and well made. It also comes with fast Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity. The camera quality is also quite high.
When dealing with a more affordable tablet, you have to make some concessions. With the KingPad, you don’t get great sunlight visibility. If you only work inside that won’t matter, but you should stick to using it indoors.
How to Choose a Tablet for Adobe Illustrator
Taking the following factors into account, your decision-making will be much easier.
Battery Life
There’s nothing more annoying than being right in the middle of a project only to have your mobile device die at the wrong time.
Even if you save your work, which isn’t always the case, you can lose valuable time plugging in your device and waiting for it to load back up.
That is why a long-lasting battery is so important. Try to get models that last at least ten hours, but know that longer is always better.
Display
When working on a tablet, you need to consider the display. That refers to both the size of the screen, as well as the clarity and resolution.
Bright colors are incredibly important, and you want to ensure you get a device that you can easily see and work on.
That combination will make working with Adobe Illustrator a much more enjoyable experience. Always favor tablets with rich coloration and deep hues.
Size
Working on a tablet, while fun, is not always easy. You need to get a size that works best for your lifestyle. If you’re someone who works or edits from home, a heavy device with a large screen is more than fine.
However, if you do a lot of work on the go or need something you can take with you to an office or class, it’s often better to get a smaller tablet that’s easy to carry around.
Useful Tips and Information
It doesn’t matter what device you’re on, Adobe Illustrator is tricky to use. While you can dive in and try to learn through a trial by fire, it’s always better to be prepared.
If you want to know how to get started, this video is the way to go.
Learning the basics is nice, but once you get familiar with the program you will likely want to bring your skills to the next level.
For that, it’s best to take an in-depth look at Illustrator through guides like this one.
Final Words
Few programs give you the creativity or the freedom of Adobe Illustrator, and few tablets enable you to tap into that freedom like the ones outlined above.
The system may not be the easiest to use, but once you get the hang of it nothing will provide you with better results than what’s listed here.
Do you use a tablet for Adobe Illustrator? Why do you like it over other models? Let us know in the comments below!
