iPad Pro IPad Pro artist Qs - 12.9 or 11?

[mixel]

Given that I doubt a Pro update is coming this year*, and there are pretty heavily discounted refurbs available in the online store..

Im thinking of finally upgrading from my 9.7” pro. It’s served me well but certain apps - Clip Studio Paint particularly are too taxing for it. Main draw for me is the increased RAM (so more layers/resolution) but then I got thinking ; I’m probably going to go nuclear and get the 1TB model, to get those extra 2GB, and futureproof myself even further.

Also that’s a hell of a lot of space for Apple Arcade games until I can think of something else useful to do with it all! 😂

My main unknown is the physical size. I’ve always had 9.7s, but I’m increasingly drawing full comic pages and a full standard printed page fits comfortably on the 12.9” screen, while being slightly shrunk on the 11.. I think?

Is the 12.9 going to be legitimately unwieldy? I’m used to drawing in hardback A4 sketchbooks so I’m imagining it being just like that.. I never draw while walking around or anything, generally sitting with it in my lap, with the cover folded beneath to angle it. Size is the only decision I can see myself regretting in both directions. This is a one time thing, I’m not going to be able to upgrade it for a veeery long time so i want to get it right, but both sizes are exciting. 😕

*Worst case scenario I’m guessing is my purchase triggers the immediate release of a new generation of iPad Pro.. (I bought the iPad 3, that timing was terrible.) 😆 Generally I’m not bothered by hardware refreshes unless they present dramatic change, and I can’t see that happening even if a 2019 model manages to sneak through. Next model’s lowest configs may well not beat this year’s highest configs in the metrics that are important to my usage either, and they won’t be reduced £££ for ages, so the timing seems.. okay..?

Any artist insights re:size? I’ll stop yammering on now, TY!

 

[ericwn]

I use an older 12.9 daily while my wife has the 11” 2018. Size is a very personal preference. I love the 12.9 but portability doesn’t matter that much to me.

Have you tried these at a store for yourself already? There’s also usually a two week return period, just in case.

With these new iPads keep in mind that there’s a camera bump so you might want to consider a back cover to put it flat on a table. And the new version of the Apple Pencil is required.

 

[kazmac]

@mixel, the extra 2GB doesn't work with apps, I've heard it's to manage the 1TB storage. Someone did ask the folks who make Procreate if it uses more than 4GB of RAM, they said no it doesn't take advantage of the extra 2GB in the 1TB iPad Pro).

Regarding the 12.9 3rd gen size, it's considerably smaller than the 1st and 2nd gen. I thought the previous gen 12.9s were unwieldy, but I think you'll be fine with the 3rd gen. I am not sure of what size paper it would resemble.

I love the 2nd gen Apple pencil, but I still cannot justify buying the 3rd gen iPad Pro for that (given the multiple build quality issues and the crazy price points).

I just bought another Air 3 and am waiting for the 4th gen Pro. Hoping it'll be reinforced and actually use more RAM. I just cannot stay away from Procreate and Sketches Pro.

BTW, if you decide you do want a third gen, comparison shop and ask nicely if you can price match. Apple agreed to price match the Air 3 from another store and I got more off this model than if I used the EDU discount. Just make sure you have the ad or web page with the price you want Apple to match, they very well could do that.

Hopefully someone who owns a 3rd gen 12.9 will chime in.

 

[mixel]

Thanks! That’s great advice re: price matching etc. I’m definitely getting AppleCare etc too, it’s going to be a hefty purchase.. so far I’ve been v lucky with iPads and I’d hate my biggest, scariest purchase to be my first lemon. 😯

Thanks for the size reassurance too, I think my reservations are from prior messing about with a friend’s 2nd gen pro.. it did seem massive. In the shop it’s pretty hard to judge as I can’t plop it down in the positions I’m worried about ergonomically. I think it’ll be fine! I hope. 😂

As for the 6GB thing I find that really interesting and potentially contradicted (?) by what people were saying in this thread. I’m mostly interested in boosting my layer count in Comic Draw, (as I could then have layer groups by panel rather than having to share them across the whole page), and that certainly seems to be apparent in the 6GB’s layer count - but as those testers weren’t heavy users/artists & didn’t put it through its paces I wont rely on that without confirmation. (Also I didn’t have a 4GB control group to say how many layers they get, so maybe the count scales oddly once you break 3+GB) my daughter’s Air3 gets the appropriate scaled up number though for a 3GB machine.

I found a thread on Procreates forum where the devs say Apple allocate that extra memory for things like multitasking etc. The plot thickens! I wonder if that’s just Apples advice and Plasq ignored it. 😂 (notably CD supported the Air3’s 3GB automatically while Procreate seems to need manually patching for each new configuration. Hmm!)

I gotta msg Plasq!

 

[kamikazeeMC]

I emailed Procreate yesterday regarding the upcoming version 5 regarding RAM, and they said currently they weren't using the extra 2GB of the 1TB iPP, but if Apple were to open that up they would take advantage of it.

I've been going back and forth on this for weeks between the 11 and 12.9 while waiting for a refresh. Originally I was going to go all out for a 1TB 12.9, but atm I've talked myself down to a 11" 256. I'm no artist, but looking at getting into digital art, have used Wacoms in the past and when I draw I usually zoom in and use short strokes so I'm sure I'll be fine on the smaller one. I also plan to lose my desk and just use this on my lap/couch/bed. Need to go in for another play to see if I can one hand it while reading.

 

[mixel]

I emailed Procreate yesterday regarding the upcoming version 5 regarding RAM, and they said currently they weren't using the extra 2GB of the 1TB iPP, but if Apple were to open that up they would take advantage of it.

I find this intruiging as other apps seem to be addressing the space. It all seems a bit shady? Might be as simple as “please don’t use that space as we like to keep it reserved for multitasking and memory management etc..” but not an actual hard limit. Confusing. Or, perhaps it‘s just less available, maybe not as accessible to the GPU side, and Procreate needs it to be, while CD doesn’t? That would explain it, but I have no idea.

I’m waiting to hear from Plasq to see if Comic Draw really does let you use the full amount. Hopefully they have a 1TB pro to test it on.. For reference, layer count for a 6.8 x 10.4” @ 300dpi (US standard size) page in Comic Draw..

2 GB RAM - 23 Layers (iPad Pro 9.7”) - lacking for complex pics
3 GB RAM - 36 Layers (iPad Air 3). - not quite enough for comfort
4 GB RAM - ?? - possible sweet spot?
6 GB RAM - 70 Layers ?! - incredible, if true

Just in case the earlier thread mentioning this was referencing a bug from when the 2018 iPads were still new, and the layer count is now different on 6GB models is anyone out there able to test on the free trial? Comic Draw by Plasq on the App Store .. I’d be super grateful. The answer could save me a couple of hundred ££ 😅

I've been going back and forth on this for weeks between the 11 and 12.9 while waiting for a refresh. Originally I was going to go all out for a 1TB 12.9, but atm I've talked myself down to a 11" 256. I'm no artist, but looking at getting into digital art, have used Wacoms in the past and when I draw I usually zoom in and use short strokes so I'm sure I'll be fine on the smaller one. I also plan to lose my desk and just use this on my lap/couch/bed. Need to go in for another play to see if I can one hand it while reading.

Really nice to see someone in a similar boat to me. In my case, if I get the 12.9 I’m definitely selling my Cintiq. I’ve not needed (or wanted) to use it since the Catalina betas started.. That factors into my size preferences too slightly as my ipad’s going to be my everything machine. I also draw small strokes, and mostly pencil when working traditionally, but I like the idea of having an A4ish size sheet in full for zooming out seeing a full print at 1/1 size.

i guess theres really no harm in having the 1TB storage even if it is overkill, its much more valuable to me if that RAM is used though.

 

[kamikazeeMC]

other apps seem to be addressing the space

It would be nice if developers could have free rein to the memory use for those that can use it. Maybe it's for multitasking, but then shouldn't they reserve some on all models, rather than release older apps once it reaches its limit. As much as I want more RAM, I haven't been able to find a clear answer that 'I' would benefit with the 6GB. So I've just been trying to go on what people are able to achieve with the device.

going to be my everything machine

I want to do this as well, productively wise mainly illustration, with a little photo editing and video (Affinity Photo and LumaFusion), the rest of the time general consumption. I have a few fringe tasks I can't do that I could probably let go or find another way. Not being tethered to a desk with a Cintiq and it's also cheaper than the Cintiq Pro 16", while being a computer also.

Back to 11 vs 12.9, I currently use an ultrawide monitor with my desktop so naturally I thought the 12.9 would be my best shot trying to give it up. But I normally always have a video on one half while doing something single threaded on the other side. Casting to a TV with streaming video with the app in a slide over widow to access, while working full screen with the 11". I don't think I'd use split view much, the limited times I do, smaller app views should be okay. I use a Mini 2 for reading novels and manga and don't find that small needing to zoom in and I can hold that with one hand (so hoping I can do the same with the 11) and retire the Mini aswell.

The main reason I wanted more RAM wasn't for an individual app but multitasking without having anything refresh. Going back to trying to find if I would benefit with more, reviews never cover when they use it normally, what else they have open and when switching around do they encounter app refreshes. I could just get a max config, but I keep thinking if the 11" 256gb doesn't work for me as a sole machine, the money saved can go to a new desktop build.

 

[Jimbo Limbo]

A reminder that the 11 Pro uses the iPhone versions of apps when multitasking, whereas the 12.9 retains iPad version of software when run in split screen.
For this reason, the ONLY iPad Pro to buy is the 12.9, in my humble opinion.

 

[JayMysterio]

Given that I doubt a Pro update is coming this year*, and there are pretty heavily discounted refurbs available in the online store..

Im thinking of finally upgrading from my 9.7” pro. It’s served me well but certain apps - Clip Studio Paint particularly are too taxing for it. Main draw for me is the increased RAM (so more layers/resolution) but then I got thinking ; I’m probably going to go nuclear and get the 1TB model, to get those extra 2GB, and futureproof myself even further.

Also that’s a hell of a lot of space for Apple Arcade games until I can think of something else useful to do with it all! 😂

My main unknown is the physical size. I’ve always had 9.7s, but I’m increasingly drawing full comic pages and a full standard printed page fits comfortably on the 12.9” screen, while being slightly shrunk on the 11.. I think?

Is the 12.9 going to be legitimately unwieldy? I’m used to drawing in hardback A4 sketchbooks so I’m imagining it being just like that.. I never draw while walking around or anything, generally sitting with it in my lap, with the cover folded beneath to angle it. Size is the only decision I can see myself regretting in both directions. This is a one time thing, I’m not going to be able to upgrade it for a veeery long time so i want to get it right, but both sizes are exciting. 😕

*Worst case scenario I’m guessing is my purchase triggers the immediate release of a new generation of iPad Pro.. (I bought the iPad 3, that timing was terrible.) 😆 Generally I’m not bothered by hardware refreshes unless they present dramatic change, and I can’t see that happening even if a 2019 model manages to sneak through. Next model’s lowest configs may well not beat this year’s highest configs in the metrics that are important to my usage either, and they won’t be reduced £££ for ages, so the timing seems.. okay..?

Any artist insights re:size? I’ll stop yammering on now, TY!

It's unwieldy in the regard of if you are using it as a regular tablet device. Meaning you imagine you are going to just pull it out wherever you are on the go, to watch a video.

As an artist tool, how often did you think carrying around an art board & your 11 X 17 comic book pages? Well, the 12.9 iPad Pro is a lot more wieldy than that. As an artist tool it really isn't that unwieldy, especially if it isn't something you take out of the home that often. If you do, throw it in your current bag and notice much room it doesn't take up.

For now the 6GB of Ram is seen as overkill, but right around the corner is Photoshop if you are invested in the Adobe ( personally commentary_ "Why?" ) suite of products. If you are, it might be handy to have all that Ram for when Adobe finally releases a full version of Photoshop probably late next year. If you are using Procreate, when 5 is released, it may as well be nice to have that extra Ram.

For me personally, it didn't take long to get used to the size, and I appreciate the additional real estate from the early iPads. To me part of the Pro designation is having a canvas big enough for me to work on comfortably.

 

[mixel]

It would be nice if developers could have free rein to the memory use for those that can use it. Maybe it's for multitasking, but then shouldn't they reserve some on all models, rather than release older apps once it reaches its limit. As much as I want more RAM, I haven't been able to find a clear answer that 'I' would benefit with the 6GB. So I've just been trying to go on what people are able to achieve with the device.

Yeah, very little about the extra 2GB adds up to me.. Just those 70+ layers in comic draw would make it well worth it for me, but if CD is one of the only apps that's managed to use the RAM it's a bit weird.[/quote]

I want to do this as well, productively wise mainly illustration, with a little photo editing and video (Affinity Photo and LumaFusion), the rest of the time general consumption. I have a few fringe tasks I can't do that I could probably let go or find another way. Not being tethered to a desk with a Cintiq and it's also cheaper than the Cintiq Pro 16", while being a computer also.

Yeah, anything related to programming and emulation, gaming etc I'll still have to use my Mac and PC for, but they're a very limited slice of my total usage. Photos is an update or two away from being a replacement for it's desktop version.. (Why no smart albums on iOS!?) [/quote]

Back to 11 vs 12.9, I currently use an ultrawide monitor with my desktop so naturally I thought the 12.9 would be my best shot trying to give it up. But I normally always have a video on one half while doing something single threaded on the other side. Casting to a TV with streaming video with the app in a slide over widow to access, while working full screen with the 11". I don't think I'd use split view much, the limited times I do, smaller app views should be okay. I use a Mini 2 for reading novels and manga and don't find that small needing to zoom in and I can hold that with one hand (so hoping I can do the same with the 11) and retire the Mini aswell.

It sounds like 11" works well for you.. Probably would for me too considering I'm coming from 9.7" pro and that's a biig step up, it's just if I'm replacing my Cintiq 13HD - it'd be nice to outperform it in every way so I don't regret selling it for a smaller device. [/quote]

The main reason I wanted more RAM wasn't for an individual app but multitasking without having anything refresh. Going back to trying to find if I would benefit with more, reviews never cover when they use it normally, what else they have open and when switching around do they encounter app refreshes. I could just get a max config, but I keep thinking if the 11" 256gb doesn't work for me as a sole machine, the money saved can go to a new desktop build.

And that makes a ton of sense. I really dont do all that much jumping between apps.. I dont even notice apps refreshing much on the 2GB 9.7, it's all about single app performance for me so I'm looking forward to getting to the bottom of the 6GB thing.

A reminder that the 11 Pro uses the iPhone versions of apps when multitasking, whereas the 12.9 retains iPad version of software when run in split screen.
For this reason, the ONLY iPad Pro to buy is the 12.9, in my humble opinion.

I don't understand this point as it seems.. odd? I must be misinterpretting what you mean. Even on the 9.7" pro I can have Procreate on the left and full Safari or something on the right, it doesnt switch to a mobile interface? Admittedly it's cramped.. Are there particular app combinations the mobile thing happens on?

It's unwieldy in the regard of if you are using it as a regular tablet device. Meaning you imagine you are going to just pull it out wherever you are on the go, to watch a video.

Yeah I don't really do that, much. I watch more video on my iphone, I'm not actually sure why though! 😅

As an artist tool, how often did you think carrying around an art board & your 11 X 17 comic book pages? Well, the 12.9 iPad Pro is a lot more wieldy than that. As an artist tool it really isn't that unwieldy, especially if it isn't something you take out of the home that often. If you do, throw it in your current bag and notice much room it doesn't take up.

Thankyou! Yeah when Im carrying my art stuff around I often lug a giant tin of 120 polychromos pencils around with me, lol.. Contextualising it like you have now makes it seem a lot less hefty. I guess Apple spend so much time fetishising slim, light stuff that it feels a bit weird going for the chunky option.

For now the 6GB of Ram is seen as overkill, but right around the corner is Photoshop if you are invested in the Adobe ( personally commentary_ "Why?" ) suite of products. If you are, it might be handy to have all that Ram for when Adobe finally releases a full version of Photoshop probably late next year. If you are using Procreate, when 5 is released, it may as well be nice to have that extra Ram.

I got off the Adobe train a couple of years ago and haven't looked back. But like Comic Draw's seemingly having support for more layers.. Maybe.. Maaaaybe Clip Studio Paint benefits from the RAM too. I wish the ram wasn't so mysteriously implemented though.

For me personally, it didn't take long to get used to the size, and I appreciate the additional real estate from the early iPads. To me part of the Pro designation is having a canvas big enough for me to work on comfortably.

This has been a very reassurring reply.

Oh! you have the 1TB model! Do you have time to try the comic draw trial and see how many layers it lets you use on a 6.8 x 10.4” @ 300dpi (US standard size) page? It's one of the default presets. If it's >70 and it runs without issues then it's definitely using the extra RAM. Plasq aren't replying to my Q yet.. Maybe they dont have a 1TB ipad around to test it on themselves.

 

[JayMysterio]

Oh! you have the 1TB model! Do you have time to try the comic draw trial and see how many layers it lets you use on a 6.8 x 10.4” @ 300dpi (US standard size) page? It's one of the default presets. If it's >70 and it runs without issues then it's definitely using the extra RAM. Plasq aren't replying to my Q yet.. Maybe they dont have a 1TB ipad around to test it on themselves.

I had Comic Draw at one point, but abandoned it for Procreate. One of my favorite features was that it could implement your script into your work if I remember right. It made me adapt scripts to a variation of the Dark Horse 'format' which it takes, and can work with. I can check later to see if I download it again as a trial or if I have it as paid.

 

[mixel]

Thanks that’d be great, 70+ layers will make it definitely worth me getting the 1TB model if it’s for real! 😮

Yeah the script features of CD are v nice.. Its such a niche app but I like it for general inking too, especially with the 1bit mode enabled. Recently they've added a bunch of new things like clipping, layer masks and panel slicing. I still love Procreate for most illustration but for comic pages I love how streamlined CD is.

 

[kamikazeeMC]

Probably would for me too considering I'm coming from 9.7" pro and that's a biig step up, it's just if I'm replacing my Cintiq 13HD - it'd be nice to outperform it in every way so I don't regret selling it for a smaller device.

Yeah in your position I'd prob go for the 12.9 otherwise you will have that lingering thought of was giving up the larger Cintiq really worth it. Also how you carry around lots of traditional supplies. If I grow into illustration I'll probably go a bigger iPad when it comes to replacing.

I really dont do all that much jumping between apps.

TBH neither do I, just more of a worse case heavy use. Which will more than likely be just having one design app open and maybe some references in split screen/slide over. I really do hope there is a quiet spec bump with the release of the Mac Pro and maybe 16" MBP. For me just dabbling in illustration for now, seems like a high investment for a 1TB model, when the rest of my use will be perfectly fine with less.

it doesnt switch to a mobile interface?

Procreate is nice how it has a minimal interface, but some other apps have tool bars with lots of stuff, going 50/50 split view on the 11" strips down the UI compared to the 12.9".

 

[JayMysterio]

Thanks that’d be great, 70+ layers will make it definitely worth me getting the 1TB model if it’s for real! 😮

Yeah the script features of CD are v nice.. Its such a niche app but I like it for general inking too, especially with the 1bit mode enabled. Recently they've added a bunch of new things like clipping, layer masks and panel slicing. I still love Procreate for most illustration but for comic pages I love how streamlined CD is.

So doing the quickest of checks, the app seems to cap at 34 layers.

I opened one of the sample pages which seems to have 12 - 14 layers, then I just started adding blank layers, where it stopped me from adding at 34. It could be less depending on how much is in each layer, I can't tell offhand.

I didn't have any files of my own to check with.

Hope it helps.

 

[AutomaticApple]

Given that I doubt a Pro update is coming this year*, and there are pretty heavily discounted refurbs available in the online store..

Im thinking of finally upgrading from my 9.7” pro. It’s served me well but certain apps - Clip Studio Paint particularly are too taxing for it. Main draw for me is the increased RAM (so more layers/resolution) but then I got thinking ; I’m probably going to go nuclear and get the 1TB model, to get those extra 2GB, and futureproof myself even further.

Also that’s a hell of a lot of space for Apple Arcade games until I can think of something else useful to do with it all! 😂

My main unknown is the physical size. I’ve always had 9.7s, but I’m increasingly drawing full comic pages and a full standard printed page fits comfortably on the 12.9” screen, while being slightly shrunk on the 11.. I think?

Is the 12.9 going to be legitimately unwieldy? I’m used to drawing in hardback A4 sketchbooks so I’m imagining it being just like that.. I never draw while walking around or anything, generally sitting with it in my lap, with the cover folded beneath to angle it. Size is the only decision I can see myself regretting in both directions. This is a one time thing, I’m not going to be able to upgrade it for a veeery long time so i want to get it right, but both sizes are exciting. 😕

*Worst case scenario I’m guessing is my purchase triggers the immediate release of a new generation of iPad Pro.. (I bought the iPad 3, that timing was terrible.) 😆 Generally I’m not bothered by hardware refreshes unless they present dramatic change, and I can’t see that happening even if a 2019 model manages to sneak through. Next model’s lowest configs may well not beat this year’s highest configs in the metrics that are important to my usage either, and they won’t be reduced £££ for ages, so the timing seems.. okay..?

Any artist insights re:size? I’ll stop yammering on now, TY!

Give it until tomorrow.

 

[mixel]

So doing the quickest of checks, the app seems to cap at 34 layers.

I opened one of the sample pages which seems to have 12 - 14 layers, then I just started adding blank layers, where it stopped me from adding at 34. It could be less depending on how much is in each layer, I can't tell offhand.

I didn't have any files of my own to check with.

Hope it helps.

Ooh thanks, bumping up the layers on the examples - those few are unusually high DPI and size.. But that's still >twice the layer count I get on my 9.7", so that's promising. If you (or someone else with a 1TB Pro, you're just kind of rare!) could try further..

Does your copy (if it's the trial, it may not) let you load in this? http://mfdawes.com/LayerTest.comicdraw (and does MR forum let me link files like that.. Who knows!)

Apologies, don't spend time on this if it's an inconvenience, the devs are curious now as they've not been able to test it either, haha.
[automerge]1571948443[/automerge]

Give it until tomorrow.

.. 25th October? I'm.. Intrigued. Why would anything happen tomorrow?

 

[AutomaticApple]

.. 25th October? I'm.. Intrigued. Why would anything happen tomorrow?

Okay, now I'm convinced that an October event isn't happening. The possibility of a November event or a December event is still up in the air though.

 

[mixel]

Okay, now I'm convinced that an October event isn't happening. The possibility of a November event or a December event is still up in the air though.

Ah well.. 🙂 Yeah as we approach Xmas I think events are increasingly unlikely so YOLO.. I have a bday coming up and they’ve dropped in price so much since launch. Going to pull the trigger on the 1TB monstrosity over the weekend.
I genuinely don’t know what they can add other than a performance and camera improvements, nothing that would make me regret the purchase anyway. (Ok maybe baseline 8GB would be a bit annoying but I very much doubt that’ll happen.)

 

[aevan]

I don't understand this point as it seems.. odd? I must be misinterpretting what you mean. Even on the 9.7" pro I can have Procreate on the left and full Safari or something on the right, it doesnt switch to a mobile interface? Admittedly it's cramped.. Are there particular app combinations the mobile thing happens on?

What they mean is this: on smaller iPads, both apps used in split view (with a 50/50 split) are using the mobile interface, while on 12.9" they use full interface. For example, Safari will have tabs in split view on 12.9" but not on smaller iPads. Procreate will show the full interface in 50/50 split on 12.9" but will hide certain buttons in the drop-down menu on smaller iPads.

It's not a huge issue, but multitasking is slightly more capable on 12.9"

 

[JayMysterio]

Ah well.. 🙂 Yeah as we approach Xmas I think events are increasingly unlikely so YOLO.. I have a bday coming up and they’ve dropped in price so much since launch. Going to pull the trigger on the 1TB monstrosity over the weekend.
I genuinely don’t know what they can add other than a performance and camera improvements, nothing that would make me regret the purchase anyway. (Ok maybe baseline 8GB would be a bit annoying but I very much doubt that’ll happen.)

Remember with Apple if you get hung up on what's next, you never appreciate what's now.

The only reason I bought this iPad Pro day 1, is that I have the original 12.9 iPad Pro, and knew I'd want a new one when a redesign came along. I literally saved every month for the 2 years, so when a new one came I could literally happily stroll in like I had money like that to get mine. Otherwise I have no issue waiting a little bit for price drops or refurbs to jump on what I want. If it meets your needs NOW, and you have the money to get it, get it. Start saving now a little bit at a time, for the newest one you know you're going to want. It's a plan that's always worked for me.

 

[moonwalk]

@mixel, the extra 2GB doesn't work with apps, I've heard it's to manage the 1TB storage. Someone did ask the folks who make Procreate if it uses more than 4GB of RAM, they said no it doesn't take advantage of the extra 2GB in the 1TB iPad Pro).

Regarding the 12.9 3rd gen size, it's considerably smaller than the 1st and 2nd gen. I thought the previous gen 12.9s were unwieldy, but I think you'll be fine with the 3rd gen. I am not sure of what size paper it would resemble.

I love the 2nd gen Apple pencil, but I still cannot justify buying the 3rd gen iPad Pro for that (given the multiple build quality issues and the crazy price points).

I just bought another Air 3 and am waiting for the 4th gen Pro. Hoping it'll be reinforced and actually use more RAM. I just cannot stay away from Procreate and Sketches Pro.

BTW, if you decide you do want a third gen, comparison shop and ask nicely if you can price match. Apple agreed to price match the Air 3 from another store and I got more off this model than if I used the EDU discount. Just make sure you have the ad or web page with the price you want Apple to match, they very well could do that.

Hopefully someone who owns a 3rd gen 12.9 will chime in.

Yeah, very little about the extra 2GB adds up to me.. Just those 70+ layers in comic draw would make it well worth it for me, but if CD is one of the only apps that's managed to use the RAM it's a bit weird.

Yeah, anything related to programming and emulation, gaming etc I'll still have to use my Mac and PC for, but they're a very limited slice of my total usage. Photos is an update or two away from being a replacement for it's desktop version.. (Why no smart albums on iOS!?) [/quote]


It sounds like 11" works well for you.. Probably would for me too considering I'm coming from 9.7" pro and that's a biig step up, it's just if I'm replacing my Cintiq 13HD - it'd be nice to outperform it in every way so I don't regret selling it for a smaller device. [/quote]


And that makes a ton of sense. I really dont do all that much jumping between apps.. I dont even notice apps refreshing much on the 2GB 9.7, it's all about single app performance for me so I'm looking forward to getting to the bottom of the 6GB thing.


I don't understand this point as it seems.. odd? I must be misinterpretting what you mean. Even on the 9.7" pro I can have Procreate on the left and full Safari or something on the right, it doesnt switch to a mobile interface? Admittedly it's cramped.. Are there particular app combinations the mobile thing happens on?


Yeah I don't really do that, much. I watch more video on my iphone, I'm not actually sure why though! 😅


Thankyou! Yeah when Im carrying my art stuff around I often lug a giant tin of 120 polychromos pencils around with me, lol.. Contextualising it like you have now makes it seem a lot less hefty. I guess Apple spend so much time fetishising slim, light stuff that it feels a bit weird going for the chunky option.


I got off the Adobe train a couple of years ago and haven't looked back. But like Comic Draw's seemingly having support for more layers.. Maybe.. Maaaaybe Clip Studio Paint benefits from the RAM too. I wish the ram wasn't so mysteriously implemented though.


This has been a very reassurring reply.

Oh! you have the 1TB model! Do you have time to try the comic draw trial and see how many layers it lets you use on a 6.8 x 10.4” @ 300dpi (US standard size) page? It's one of the default presets. If it's >70 and it runs without issues then it's definitely using the extra RAM. Plasq aren't replying to my Q yet.. Maybe they dont have a 1TB ipad around to test it on themselves.
[/QUOTE]

i tried the comic draw trial on my 1tb IPad Pro. The default is still set to 70 layers...

 

[kazmac]

Ah, interesting to hear about split screen and the 12.9" - that's very good to know for future reference. I do hope Apple will allow for Procreate, Sketches Pro etc. to take advantage of more RAM in future iPads/iPadOS. Right now, I would be so happy if Sketches Pro worked with Split screen in iPadOS.

I am waiting another month or so before I upgrade to iPadOS (to ensure all is well here). I am trying to keep multitasking to a bare minimum and using this mostly for drawing. I usually use split screen so I can have my reference image/art on the right side.

The more I think about it, the more I would chose a 12.9" iPad Pro again. The 3rd gen 12.9" is considerably smaller than the earlier 12.9 iPad Pros. Funny, just telling mom I wish Apple would do a Surface Studio set up. Somewhere down the line I may look for a drafting table style iPad stand.

As far as events, they could very well do something in November AFTER the AppleTV launch next Friday, but I am beginning to think that March will be earliest for any new iPad / Mac announcements.

One thing I'd love for the Apple pencil is new nibs. I'd love interchangeable nibs of different sizes like Wacom. I use the pencil tools in every drawing the most, so it would be nice to have different nibs in addition to software simulating different pencil types. Not sure about those paper-like protectors though. I use a microfiber cloth and clean the iPad after every use.

Anyway, @mixel, looking forward to hearing what you picked up.

 

[mixel]

i tried the comic draw trial on my 1tb IPad Pro. The default is still set to 70 layers...

Thank you! that is great news! I’ll put it through it’s paces and get back to Plasq on how it goes. 70layers at 300dpi means I can run at higher dpi and not risk running out. No idea why they can support the memory but other apps don’t, but there must be a technical reason.

I am waiting another month or so before I upgrade to iPadOS (to ensure all is well here). I am trying to keep multitasking to a bare minimum and using this mostly for drawing. I usually use split screen so I can have my reference image/art on the right side.

I’m usually gung-ho about updates and have been running iPadOS on my 9.7” pro since the betas with no problems, in case anecdotal reassurance is useful.🙂

The more I think about it, the more I would chose a 12.9" iPad Pro again. The 3rd gen 12.9" is considerably smaller than the earlier 12.9 iPad Pros. Funny, just telling mom I wish Apple would do a Surface Studio set up. Somewhere down the line I may look for a drafting table style iPad stand.

Thats a good idea.. the only thing I think I’ll miss when I sell the Cintiq is the adjustable angled stand for desk use, that was nice. Hopefully easily emulated.

One thing I'd love for the Apple pencil is new nibs. I'd love interchangeable nibs of different sizes like Wacom. I use the pencil tools in every drawing the most, so it would be nice to have different nibs in addition to software simulating different pencil types. Not sure about those paper-like protectors though. I use a microfiber cloth and clean the iPad after every use.

Thats a really good point and I’d forgotten all about the Wacoms interchangeable nibs.. I always just settled on the one I liked most. 😅 Wacom nibs are crazily disposable though, I wore through them really fast. I’ve drawn on my iPad Pro way more than I used to use the Wacom and I’ve not worn through a single nib.. And that’s with matte screen protectors. I find the surface unpleasant without a matte protector, but I find the official Paperlike ones too textured. I don’t want it being that noisy when I draw.

Anyway, @mixel, looking forward to hearing what you picked up.

ahh! Im looking forward to using it! It’s largely arrived but I can’t open it yet. (Well I could but for various reasons should wait until Saturday!) Went all out and have the 12.9” 1TB now. 😳 Will post about how it’s going once I’ve played with it..

 

[mixel]

Okay thought I should follow up on this! The 12.9 / 1TB 2018 Pro - absolutely everything about it is what I’d hoped.

Affinity Photo runs better on it than it does on my iMac. 😅

Luna display works so much better than it did on my 9.7, So there’s no reason whatsoever for me to keep my Cintiq around, even for desktop apps.

I’ve barely scratched the storage but have every Apple Arcade game installed.. 😮

Comic Draw by Plasq definitely takes advantage of the 6GB ram (thanks for those who helped test earlier) and never having to worry about layer limits is really, really great. No longer merging layers to conserve space. 73 layers is so much more useful than 23 layers!

The iPads physical size (main thing I was worried about) is fine, totally comfortable. It’s a little more unwieldy than the 9.7 was in portrait, but with the case/stand folded a certain way propping it up in my lap works well.

The weight is okay too, though my case adds quite a bit to that. It’s certainly not an issue and I can still throw it in my backpack/shoulder bag without thinking about it. I’m using this case..

The only “problem” I’ve had with it is around the edge of the screen, clearly to avoid accidental presses because of the tiny bezel, thumb presses sometimes don’t register, which isn’t ideal as most art apps UI/Toolbars are on the very edge of the screen, so I’ve learned to double-tap tools now. Not every app has this problem so I guess there’s a way for developers to bypass the touch rejection. Pencil taps always register, its just finger presses.

Screen is beautiful! Applying a screen protector was unnerving though as it’s so big.

I’m really enjoying Steam home streaming to it, too.. I can get 60fps hiccup free most of the time and paired with Dual Shock 4 controller that’s a pretty great way to play games away from the computer desk.

Battery life is great too, some things just don’t seem to suck the battery much, I charge it every couple of days.

In terms of art - I’m finding the bigger surface much more useful than I thought I would, but really specifically during the inking phase, where long smooth curves are often needed. I probably cut about a third (or more) of my stroke undos with this upgrade.

Reading comics is perfect. Can fit an entire US standard size comic book on the screen at 1:1 size. This is doubly useful when you’re making US standard sized comics. 🙂 it’s also nice in landscape showing both sides.

Clip Studio’s 3D support runs much nicer than it did on my old iPad but still clearly isn’t optimised for the newer devices, should be smoother.

I got AppleCare+ etc, and hope I have no problems.. it is an Apple refurb, but indistinguishable from 100% new. Thanks again people who helped me make the decision. 😊

 

[JayMysterio]

Congratz on the purchase.

Reading comics is perfect. Can fit an entire US standard size comic book on the screen at 1:1 size. This is doubly useful when you’re making US standard sized comics. 🙂 it’s also nice in landscape showing both sides.

My one gripe about reading comics on the iPad, no matter what size is double page spreads. For this I will always prefer the physical copy. Double page spreads get shrunk down to fit horizontally, and I have to start the whole stretching thing with each panel to read dialogue. This really hit home with the first issue of Undiscovered Country that came out. Since I wasn't at the store at 9:59am when the store opens at 10, the vultures speculators got all the copies before I could get one to read. 🤬 🤬 🤬 So I bought it digitally, and a large part of the middle of the story is double page spreads. It just takes you out of the reading experience when you have to reorient your reading position, then start stretching & switching to read panels.

Just a personal gripe.

I'd also recommend if you get a regular place to work on your iPad to draw, to look at this stand.

Not my image, but from another artist on Twitter who just discovered the stand as well.

https://www.amazon.com/KABCON-Adjus...coding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=3YJQAHXK7XGA6PP2DMT7

Very steady & strong to put your iPad in a more comfortable position for longer sessions of drawing. I saw it recommended in a top iPad pro accessories video, and it's been picking up more & more recommendations since. I like mine. Pain to adjust, but that means it won't fold under pressure from you drawing on it.