From using the traditional pen and paper to creating majestic designs via digital platforms – Art has significantly evolved over the years. Now that we’ve more access to technology, it’s easier for us to draw our ideas into reality.
Drawing apps like Procreate provide artists with an avenue of creation to expand their ideas, anywhere and anytime. It eliminates the struggle of carrying those hefty artwork tools and instead, just use a simple stylus to finish an artwork.
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Is Procreate For Windows Even Possible
Unfortunately, Procreate has its limitation. It is not available across all platforms and works on only iPad devices.
That’s a bummer if you don’t own an iPad.
But worry not, as per famous saying: where there is a will, there is a way.
There are tons of different methods you can follow to download this app on your computer as well as on your Android devices.
In this post, we’ve provided a step-by-step guide on how you can use Procreate for windows, including the requirements, supported devices, and the best alternatives to try.
But first, a short introduction of the app…
What is Procreate?
Procreate is a popular illustration, drawing, and painting app that can be used by both beginner and professional level artists. What makes procreate so popular is its ability to create dynamic artwork using strong tools, and a user-friendly interface.
It is a complete art studio that provides artists with endless opportunities to transform their ideas into reality. It has impressive responsiveness, making the experience similar to if you’re drawing on a canvas, especially when used with Apple Pencil.
The app has over 200 brushes, all customizable as per your need. There are different gestures, easy navigation, animations, templates, videos, and tons of other exciting tools you can play around with.
Pros
- An extensive list of brushes
- Really smooth workflow
- In-app time-lapse recording
- Plenty of formats for import and export
- Beginner-friendly
Cons
- Limited compatibility
- No free or trial version
Now to the sad part, the only problem with procreate, as we’ve mentioned before, is its availability for only iOS devices. So, in case, you own a computer or an Android, you have to follow an alternate method to install the app on your device.
Procreate Supported Devices
As of the end of 2021, Procreate app now supported non-pro iPad devices. The only requirement is that the device must be running on iOS 13 or newer. Here’s a list of the supported iPad models
- iPad Mini 4 (5th to 9th Gen)
- iPad (5th to 9th Gen)
- 5-inch and 7-inch iPad Pro
- 9-inch iPad Pro (1st to 5th Gen)
- 11-inch iPad Pro (1st to 3rd Gen)
- iPad Air (3rd and 4th Gen)
- iPad Air 2
Procreate also features a pocket version that can be used on iPhone.
How to use Procreate for Windows?
As procreate is specifically made for iOS devices, there’s no direct way to install it. However, you can install this app on an emulator, which let you use mobile apps and games on your computer.
An emulator is a platform that allows you to run native apps on your computer. You can use it to run both Android and iOS apps on your PC.
Requirements for running an Emulator
- OS: Windows 7, 8.1, 10 or above
- RAM: 4 GB of RAM
- Storage: 20 GB free storage
Other requirements include Visual C++ and .Net framework to prevent graphical glitches. If you own a Graphic card, that’s a cherry on top.
How to use Procreate on Windows?
Option 1: Use Bluestack or Nox Player Emulator
- Download Bluestack or Nox Player on your computer
- By default, the app will install on C drive, you can change the path by clicking on the Customize installation button
- Select the path and click on the Install Now button
- Open the app and go to Google Play Store
- Sign in with your Google account credentials
- Find the search box and type “Procreate” and enter
- Click on the download button to install the app
- Open Procreate and enjoy your first painting session
You can also download procreate APK file on your Android emulator. Here’s how you can do this:
- Open Google Chrome on the Emulator
- Go to the search bar and type in “Procreate APK”
- Download the app on your computer
- Because this is an APK file, you need to allow the third-party app permission
- For this, open Settings> Security> and check “Unknown Sources”
- Now go to the Download section and install the app
- Once the app is installed, you can use the application as usual.
Option 2: iPadian Simulator
iPadian Simulator is the alternative to Bluestack and Nox Player on the iOS side. The app allows you to mimic the iOS interface on your computer, including the App Store. However, unlike an android emulator, iPadian is paid software.
So, if you want to buy it, here is how you can use iPadian for Procreate.
- Download iPadian on your computer
- Run the installer and install the app on your specified location
- Open the iPadian app and go to AppStore
- Sign in with your Apple ID
- Go to the search bar and type “Procreate”
- Click on the Download button and you’re ready to go
5 Best Alternatives to Procreate
Procreate is a great app that offers incredible features, ranging from simple sketching to making interesting illustrations. It’s versatile, scalable, and can be used on iPhone devices as well. But as the app is only available for iOS devices, it doesn’t hurt to try alternatives.
So, if you’re someone looking for an alternative to Procreate, here are our 5 best recommendations. The upshot? These apps can be found on both iOS and Android platforms.
ArtStudio Pro
A great app that can be used on both iPhone and iPad. It has almost everything you can find on Procreate. Designed for beginners’ artists, ArtStudio comes with a complete suite of helpful tools and brushes. However, unlike Procreate, ArtStudio only has 25 brushes. This includes a bucket full, pencils, a smudge tool, and an airbrush. The app also lets you simulate and resize these brush pressure.
Furthermore, you’ll also get five layers that can reorder, merge, control, duplicate and delete the transparency. ArtStudio also cost less than Procreate and comes with a full-free version, with smaller canvas, a Lite version for basic illustration, and a premium Pro plan.
Pixelmator
Pixelmator is a powerful app that allows you plenty of digital painting and image editing options. Just like Procreate, this app is only available on iOS devices, but unlike Procreate, it surpasses some of the features. For example, you can edit images for up to 100 MB in size. It is also equipped with a wide range of effects, correction tools, and color manipulation options.
The app comes with 100 brushes, layer effects, paint effects, and a multi-layer option. It is built with responsiveness in mind and is compatible with Apple Pencil and any third-party stylus. It also allows you to import or export Photoshop files, JPEGs, PNGs, GIFs, and other formats.
Pixelmator costs $4.99, which is more affordable compared to Procreate and ArtStudio. It also has a 15-day free trial period that you can access by just signing in to the platform.
Autodesk Sketchbook
Autodesk is a household name when it comes to creating interesting illustrations and motion graphics. Autodesk Sketchbook is like the little brother of the Autodesk suite, specifically designed for mobile devices. It brings quite the experience of artwork and works on both iOS and Android devices.
Starting from the basic features, it offers a bigger canvas size than Procreate. Sketchbook also has over 190 customizable brushes, compared to 200 on Procreate. Like most drawing apps, you can choose from a selection of pencils, markers, inks, and brushes.
And lastly, the infamous Autodesk rulers and ellipse guides are also available on the mobile version. You can use the 16-sector Radical symmetry to create smooth lines and correct shapes.
Now, as for the prices, if you own the Autodesk suite, you can download the app for free. Otherwise, you need to pay $85 per year. This includes a license for Autodesk and other perks.
Concepts
Concepts is yet another great addition to the list that has seen use in companies such as Apple, PlayStation, and Disney. Available on both iOS and Android, concepts allow its users to create amazing artwork, creative images, or doodles on small devices.
This drawing app is flexible, easy to use, and lets artists select from a wide array of customizable tools. This includes an infinite canvas as well as different pens, markers, and pencils. It also lets you add layers to your project so you can make your dream design with ease.
And the best part, Concepts is absolutely free to download. Just go to your specific app store and download the app. However, if you want to fully enjoy all the features, then it is recommended to get the Pro pack.
Krita
An open-source application for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux users. It gives users a natural drawing experience so they can create graphics, comics, illustrations, or anything that comes to mind.
The latest version of the app comes with an improved interface, a wide selection of brushes, plenty of integrations, an infinite number of vector layers, a full-blown color wheel, animation functionality, customizable brushes, and various 3D effects.
And get this: Krita is free to download.
Is Procreate worth buying?
Procreate is a professional app, loved by both professional artists and beginners. The app interface is extremely versatile and works seamlessly on compatible devices. Since the app is designed for iPad, it works perfectly with Apple Pencil.
That said, if you skimp for technology and have a passion for design, Procreate is worth buying. The current price of the app is $9.99 for lifetime access.
Considering all the features and app support, especially when there are no hidden fees, monthly costs, or add-ons – It deserves all the praise and hype it gets.
Where can I learn Procreate?
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasonal designer, Procreate always has something amazing you can master. You can dive in and do the try and error on YouTube. There are plenty of tutorials, how-to guides, and courses available for free on this video-streaming platform.
Also, there are dedicated classes and courses you can purchase. Some of these courses even teach you advanced tools and methods you can implement in your design. Udemy and Skillshare have useful courses for Procreate.
Once you get a grip of what this app is capable of, you’ll find plenty of opportunities.
Is Procreate better than Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator?
It depends on your usage and proficiency level. If you want to create a design on the go, or looking for something easy-to-use, Procreate is a worthwhile option. However, if you want to create a complex illustration that requires everything from grid structure to brushing, Photoshop or illustrator is what you need.
Can you use Procreate on MAC?
Unfortunately, Procreate isn’t available on MacBook and iMac devices as the app is built with touch usage in mind. Since Apple desktop and laptop devices don’t support touch, you have to follow the Emulator method to use it.
However, there are plenty of Emulators available for MAC devices too. Just like Procreate for Windows, you can easily download them and use your favorite mobile app. Alternatively, you can use Procreate competitor apps like ArtStudio Pro, Pixelmator, Autodesk Sketchbook, Concepts, and Krita.
Conclusion
Procreate is one of the leading drawing and graphic app that is available today. It is powerful, intuitive, and is built with flexibility in mind for both beginner and professional designers. If you’re in search of a tool to design, paint, and sketch, this app is perfect for you.
That said, Procreate has its own limitations. To solve this, seeking an alternative is the best option as regardless, you just want an app for your leisure time. Ultimately, whether you’re willing to give these alternatives a go or use Procreate for Windows, the decision is entirely up to you.