What is the Best Android Tablet For Drawing? There are many options you can go for when buying a drawing tablet. Whether on a budget or looking for a premium or midrange multipurpose tablet, Android tablets provide a variety of tablet options to choose from.
The best thing is that they are standalone tablets that can serve a diverse range of functions such as gaming, reading, and streaming.
If you prefer a Windows tablet or iPad for drawing, check out our previous posts. Thanks to their diversity, it is possible to use Android Drawing Tablets instead of a traditional drawing tablet or ipad .
Top Picks for Android Drawing Tablets
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: Best Overall
- XIAOMI PAD 6: Best with a stylus
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Samsung Art Tablet
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE: Best Budget
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+: Best for Designers
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite: Best for Beginners
- Amazon Fire Max 11 tablet: Best Budget
- Simbans Picasso Tab: cheap tablet for drawing
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: Best Overall
- Screen Size: 14.6 inches
- Resolution: 2960×1848 Pixels
- Refresh Rate: 120 HZ
- Screen Type: AMOLED 2X screen
- Aspect Ratio: 16:10 ratio
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip
- RAM: 8 GB or 16 GB
- Storage: 512 GB Expandable to 1 TB
- Pen: S pen with 9 ms latency and 4096 pressure levels
- Camera: 13 MP Rear and Front
- Battery life: 24 Hours
- Operating System: Android 13
If you are looking for a powerful and reliable Android tablet for your art, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is our top pick. This new tablet features a large 2x AMOLED display with 14.6 inches in size and an 1848 x 2960 pixels resolution. The screen size is larger than an iPad Pro, which is considered an industry-standard in terms of efficiency.
Like the iPad, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra screen has a high 120 Hz refresh rate that makes it good for gaming. This means that as you draw, it will seamlessly create changing strokes on your touch-sensitive display screen.
The overall 420 nits to 750 nits of brightness make it possible to use the Tab S9 Ultra in both high and low light conditions. However, this is slightly lower than an iPad Pro with 1000 to 1600 nits of brightness. On purchase, you will get a free S Pen to use for drawing. The S Pen is Samsung’s standard drawing stylus.
It is perfect and will provide a perfect pen-to-paper interface, like interacting with the massive screen. You will be able to run both drawing, video editing, and even animation software thanks to the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and 12 to 16 GB of RAM.
For most Samsung tablets, storage space expandability is a standout feature. This tablet is no different. You will have 256 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB of storage options, all expandable with an extra 1 TB microSD card. Overall, this is a premium-level tablet that will help you with more than just drawing. Unfortunately, this tablet does not come cheap.
Pros
- Powerful Processor and RAM
- Large and clear display with 2 X AMOLED technology
- S Pen compatible and added on delivery
- Expandable storage to 1TB using a MicroSD card
Cons
- Expensive
- Still not as good as the iPad Pro.
XIAOMI PAD 6: Best tablets with a stylus
- Screen Size: 11.0 inches, IPS LCD
- Resolution: 1800 x 2880 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm
- RAM: 6 GB, 8 GB, 12 GB
- Storage: 128 GB, 256GB 256 GB No card slot
- Pen Pressure: 4096 Levels
- Latency: 3ms latency
- OS: Android 13
- GPU: Adreno 650
- Stylus support (magnetic)
- Weight: 490 g
The XIAOMI PAD 6 is the best runner-up tablet. It has a large 11.0-inch, IPS LCD screen with 1800 x 2880 pixels resolution which allows you to view your work in high detail. Such a high resolution on a small screen means that it will show a more clear resolution high resolution spread on a large screen. A good example is the Galaxy S8 Ultra.
If you are using the tablet for animation or gaming, you will notice the screen and pen interaction is fast and instant with zero lags. This is made possible by the high 144 Hz refresh rate on the screen which is even higher than the 120 Hz on an iPad Pro or iPad Pro 13 4M.
Like many Samsung tablets, the XIAOMI PAD 6 features a sturdy Aluminum frame and aluminum back that makes it durable and firm. Generally, the overall size is slim and sleek with minimal bezels. Its overall Dimensions of 254 x 165.2 x 6.5 mm and 490 g make it easy to carry around.
For music lovers, it is possible to listen to music thanks to the 4 stereo speakers on the tablet with a rich sound output. However, you will encounter challenges if you want to connect to headphones or external audio devices due to the lack of a 3.5 mm audio jack.
Pros
- Good display with 1800 x 2880 pixels resolution and 144 Hz refresh rate
- Light weight built
- Many RAM options
Cons
- Storage not expandable
- No 3.5 mm Jack
- Low 3ms latency
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Best Value
- Screen Size: 14.6 inches
- Super AMOLED
- Refresh Rate: 90 HZ
- Resolution: 2960×1848 Pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 16:10 ratio
- Processor: SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
- Free Samsung S pen with 4096 levels of pressure
- 2.8 ms latency
- RAM: 8 and 16 GB options
- Storage: 128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB expandable
- Battery life: 8 hours
The Samsung Galaxy S8 Ultra is very similar to the Samsung Galaxy S9 Ultra, only differing in a few aspects. It comes with a large 14.6-inch screen with 2960×1848 pixels.
For gamers, it features only a 90-Hz refresh rate, which is okay but low compared to 120-Hz on the S9 Ultra. You will encounter challenges when using this tablet in high-light situations due to its low 337 nits brightness levels.
For example, the S8 Ultra is not 2x AMOLED but only Super AMOLED. Do not worry too much about this. Additionally, the Samsung Galaxy S9 Ultra has a brighter screen, larger RAM, and a longer battery life.
The processing power is really good, with a powerful SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and 8 and 16 GB of RAM. If you pick the 8 GB option for complex tasks, you will notice some lags and processing problems. The 16 GB option is, however, reliable even for video editing.
Just like the S9 Ultra, you will get a free S Pen for drawing upon purchase. What is great is that, unlike the iPad, this tablet will not require you to pay extra for it.
Pros
- Large 14.6-inch screen size with 2960×1848 Pixels resolution
- Super AMOLED screen display
- Powerful Processor and Large 8 and 16 GB RAM options
- Long 8 hours of battery life
- Comes with a free S pen and nibs
- Expandable storage to 1 TB
Cons
- Low 90 HZ screen refresh rate
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE: Best budget
- Screen Size: 10.9-inch
- Resolution: 1440 x 2304 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 90 Hz,
- Aspect Ratio: 16:10 ratio
- Latency: 2.8ms
- Pen Pressure: 4096 levels
- Processor : Exynos 1380
- RAM: 6 GB, 8 GB
- Storage:128 GB, 256 GB
- Stylus: S Pen included
If you are on a budget but still need a tablet with an S Pen, then the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE is for you. It does not have an AMOLED screen like the more expensive options but will still work well.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE comes with a 10.9-inch IPS LCD screen. Although this size is decent, the 1440 x 2304 pixels is not the best. You will still be able to draw on the screen without issues.
Like both S8 Ultra and S9 Ultra the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE can be used as both landscape and portrait orientation. This is made possible by the 16:10 aspect ratio.
Despite its affordable price range, you will still get an S Pen just like on the more expensive tablets. The tablet will be able to run design and drawing software with ease thanks to an Exynos 1380 processor with 6 GB and 8 GB RAM options.
Pros
- Comes with S Pen
- Long Battery Life
- Strong and Durable
Cons
- Not the best resolution
- No AMOLED display
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+: Best for designers
- Screen Size: 12.4-Inch
- Resolution: 2800 x 1752 Pixels
- RAM: 6 / 8 GB
- Storage: 128 / 256 / 512 GB
- Large Super AMOLED Screen
- Wide 4K Camera
- Samsung S Pen and Keyboard cover included
- Long battery life
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ has a large 12.4-inch screen only 0.5 inches smaller than the Apple iPad Pro. Most artists choose the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ 12.4 inches, with Super AMOLED technology and very narrow bezels.
If you however prefer a larger screen, you can go for the larger Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra with 14.6 inches which also has a Super AMOLED screen and very narrow bezels.
A great thing they have done is introduce the series as a budget-friendly option of this series with the Galaxy Tab S8 which comes with an 11-inch screen size that is slightly smaller than the others and lacks the Super AMOLED screen but instead has a TFT- LCD screen with narrow bezels.
Narrow Bezels simply mean the edges around the screen that are reduced to ensure the screen is larger. Most traditional LCD screens have a layer among the screen layers that is dedicated to the screen touch function. A super AMOLED screen fuses these layers into one, including the touch function on all layers and no dedicated touch layer.
This makes the screen faster and able to produce high-quality and vivid colors. Just like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra and Samsung Galaxy Tab S8, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ has an aspect ratio of 16:10 pixels that makes for a proportionate image whether landscape or portrait.
2800 x 1752 pixels resolution ensures a clear image and coupled with the Super AMOLED display on S8+ and S8 Ultra creates very clear images and colors.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ comes with a fast 2.8 Latency speed S Pen that is free from lags. The Samsung S Pen is great for both drawing and Note-taking and is an industry standard for Android tablets. It comes free with most Samsung Tablets including Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+.
Pros
- Large Super AMOLED Screen
- 4K Camera
- Comes with a free Samsung S Pen and Keyboard cover
- Hard drive upgradeable up to 1 TB
- Long battery life
- Variety of Options
- Great Resolution
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S8+ does not need a computer connection
Cons
- It lacks a headphone jack
- Narrow Bezels are great but when too narrow may have a bad user experience
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite: Cheap Android Tablet For Drawing
- Screen size: 10.4 inches
- Resolution: 2000 x 1200 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Storage: 64 GB, 128 GB Expandable to 1 TB
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G
- RAM: 4 GB
- Battery Life: 10 Hours
- OS: Android 13
- Weight: 465 g
- Camera: 5 MP front and 8 MP rear
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C port, wired charging
The Samsung S7+ is very good but a little expensive. If you want a great tablet with the same features for notes and drawing, then the Samsung Galaxy S6 Lite is the pick for the best budget Android drawing tablet.
The tablet has a sleek slim body with a metallic back, making it very strong and durable. 14 hours of battery life allows you to effectively use it as a perfect portable drawing tablet. A fully standalone drawing tablet and you can use it without a computer connection.
A good fast charging long-life battery allows up to 13 hours making it a good portable tablet for your outdoors and travel drawing. Just like the S7+ and S6, it comes with a highly accurate and responsive S pen. With a very large 4096 pen pressure. the S Pen mimics a natural feel when drawing or writing.
Pros
- Great Price
- Fast Charging Battery
- Comes with an S pen
- Standalone Drawing Tablet
Cons
- The pen comes with 1 nib
Amazon Fire Max 11 tablet: Best Budget
- Screen Size: 11-inch
- Resolution: 2000×1200 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 5:3 ratio
- Processor: Mediatek MT8188J
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 64 GB or 128 GB
- Rear Wide Camera: 8 MP
- Front Wide Camera: 8 MP
- Battery: 14 hours
- Comes with a Stylus
Amazon Fire Max 11 tablet is a perfect budget option that punches higher specifications than its low price range. It comes with a large 11-inch screen size with Full HD 2000×1200 pixels resolution. This IPS, LCD screen type is bright and features a very vibrant color display.
The screen is good although it has a low 60Hz refresh rate. Most premium tablets have up to 120 Hz screen refresh rate. This means that as you draw with a stylus, the screen will not be as seamless as you would like but it still works okay.
Compared to other Amazon Fire Tablets, it has the most powerful processor with a Mediatek MT8188J and 4 B RAM. You will get a free stylus on purchase to kick off your drawing experience.
Pros
- Affordable Price range
- Comes with a stylus pen
- Long 14 hours of battery life
Cons
- Compatibility issues with Play Store and other Google applications
Simbans Picasso Tab X: cheap Android tablet
If you are on a budget and need a cheap tablet that is made with artists in mind, we recommend the Simbans Picasso Tab. It is a budget tablet also referred to as the Picasso Tab X.
This tablet costs slightly under 200$ making it one of the cheapest tablets with an Android Operating System. Additionally, it comes with several free accessories such as a free Stylus Pen, Drawing Glove, universal power adaptor plus a pre-installed screen protector.
The display is good for digital art with a 10-inch screen size and Full HD 1920 x 1080 pixels Full HD resolution. Processing power is perfect for a basic drawing tablet with 4 GB RAM and a MediaTek processor.
Luckily, Drawing is not too system-intensive. 4 GB RAM is low but will work perfectly. If you want a tablet to edit videos, go for tablets with 8GB RAM. The Picasso Tab X is limited by its low 2 or 4 GB RAM. For the the full Picasso Tab X Review check out our previous post.
- Screen Size: 10.1-inches
- Resolution: IPS touch screen with1280 x 800 pixels
- Storage: 32 GB, expandable with an extra 32 GB MicroSD card
- Processor: Quad-Core MTK8163 1.3/ 2GHz/Core
- RAM: 4 GB / 2 GB
- Operating System: Android OS
- Front Camera: 2.0 MP
- Back Camera: 5.0 MP
- Comes with a Stylus Pen
- Connectivity: WiFi/Bluetooth, Mini-HDMI, USB Type-C, Audio, Micro-SD Card Slot
Pros
- Affordable price range
- Many free accessories including pen and glove
- Many options from the brand like Picasso Tab XL and Picasso Tab X14
- Large screen with 4 GB RAM
Cons
- Not the best for video editing
Choosing the Right tablet for you
When choosing the right tablet for you, you will need to consider, the screen size, Resolution, Price, screen type, Pressure sensitivity and accuracy, Battery life, Storage space, Power, and performance.
Screen Size and Resolution
For the best experience when drawing, we found a 10-inch screen and above with minimum Full HD 1920×1080 pixels to be the minimal option. Some tablets come with a Fully laminated, AMOLED screen, with Matte lamination and an overall bright colorful display. This type of screen will display artwork in vivid colors and a crisp clear display. The minimal parallax and light interference on the screen, plus the bright 500 nits brightness screen display makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor usage.
Speed and Performance
A slow tablet is annoying and undesirable for both professional and beginner digital artists. For a faster-running tablet, consider choosing one with high RAM and a powerful Processor. You need a minimum of 4 GB RAM to run most digital art applications like Photoshop or Illustrator and a quad-core processor or more. For video editing or animation, we recommend 8 GB RAM and above.
Stylus Pen
You need to check whether the tablet you go for comes with a free stylus or if you have to buy it separately. A good stylus pen needs to be battery-free, with 4096 pressure sensitivity, and supports tilt recognition. It should also be comfortable on your hand as you draw with a natural pen-to-paper-like feel.
Most Samsung Galaxy tablets come with a free S Pen that features 9ms latency and 4,096 pen pressure levels. The S Pen is very similar to the Wacom Pro Pen 2 found on dedicated drawing tablets. However, the latter features a better ergonomic design and high 8,192 pen pressure levels. Although these styluses come for free with your tablet, they are not as powerful as the premium Apple Pencil 1 or 2.
The Apple Pencil 1st or 2nd generation features 20 ms latency and 8,192 pen pressure levels. It is one of the best styluses for drawing.
Budget and Battery Life
Consider your preset budget and whether the tablet comes with other accessories or not. A tablet without accessories will be more expensive than one with free options. For the best experience, choose a tablet with a long 8-hour battery life and above.
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra | Best Overall | Check Price |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 | Best budget | Check Price |
| Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE | Cheap Samsung tablet | Check Price |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Android Tablet is as good as an iPad for drawing?
The Galaxy S9 Ultra is the only tablet almost as good as the best iPad Pro 12.9 inch. However, in 2024, the iPad produced an even more powerful device with an OLED screen. The iPad 13 M4’s power is unmatched by any Android Tablet.
Can You use an Android tablet for drawing?
Yes, it is possible to use Android tablets for professional drawing. This is made possible by their powerful performance, large screen size, and reliable pen. For example, the Galaxy S8 Ultra and many Samsung Tablets come with a free S Pen which has a high pen pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition. When drawing on the AMOLED screen, it provides a perfect natural pen-to-paper-like feel.
What is a Dedicated Graphic Tablet
If you are looking for a dedicated graphic tablet that is compatible with a tablet or an Android Phone then the Wacom One is a good pick. It features a nice Wacom Pro Pen Stylus, a lightweight build, and a generally simple design.