can iPad be used like a Wacom tablet?
Apr 17, 2023 07:33:44 #
I did a search and could not find an answer...
I used a MacBook Pro and also have a new iPad Mini (6th generation) and having seen sales for the Apple pen I got to wondering if it is possible to use the iPad, tethered to the MacBook, as an editing tablet when I use LR or PS (or whatever processing program).
That is to say, I am not talking about drawing on the iPad directly, but using it like folks used to use Wacom's tablets some years back (and I am sure many still use Wacoms today).
TIA for any insights anyone has
I used a MacBook Pro and also have a new iPad Mini (6th generation) and having seen sales for the Apple pen I got to wondering if it is possible to use the iPad, tethered to the MacBook, as an editing tablet when I use LR or PS (or whatever processing program).
That is to say, I am not talking about drawing on the iPad directly, but using it like folks used to use Wacom's tablets some years back (and I am sure many still use Wacoms today).
TIA for any insights anyone has
Apr 17, 2023 08:35:43 #
I seriously doubt it, but maybe someone knows something I don't
Apr 17, 2023 09:02:23 #
It would need software written for that specific purpose and if it exists, I've never heard of it.
Apr 17, 2023 10:06:14 #
tcthome
Loc: NJ
I would question Apple themselves on this. Thought has crossed my mind also. I don't own a Mac but own a 7th gen, ipad 10" & might dipp into the mac system with a mini desktop or mac air labtop for a try.
Apr 17, 2023 10:27:31 #
Well, I figured it was worth asking, though I get the feeling the answer is no. Thanks folks.
Apr 17, 2023 10:51:56 #
David Martin
Loc: Cary, NC
f8lee wrote:
I did a search and could not find an answer... br ... (show quote)
The App Store has several third party apps which allow you to use an iPad or iPhone as a remote mouse or trackpad for a Mac or PC. One of these might work for you. I found Mobile Mouse, Remote Mouse, Trackpad Lite, Remote Trackpad, and there are others. Let us know if you find something that works!
Apr 18, 2023 08:12:57 #
jbk224
Loc: Long Island, NY
f8lee wrote:
I did a search and could not find an answer... br ... (show quote)
Actually, yes. If you have OS Ventura set up on your MacBook Pro, you can set up your iPad as a second display using Sidecar. See link from Apple.
https://support.apple.com/lv-lv/guide/mac-help/mchlf3c6f7ae/mac
Apr 18, 2023 16:27:46 #
The only problem with Apple Accessories like the pen is that they are really overpriced.
Apr 18, 2023 18:59:19 #
Yes you can draw right on an iPad with a pen and some software that is quite inexpensive.
These two programs were about $10 each when purchased. They are not hard to learn, they do all kinds of drawing and painting and you can work in layers.
"ProCreate" does everything and the learning curve is very mild.
"ArtRage" I have only used for painting since it Oil Paint brushes are outstanding, but I think it does everything.
I have used them both on a standard 9.7 inch iPad and, my preference, is the 12" iPad.
Recommended.
These two programs were about $10 each when purchased. They are not hard to learn, they do all kinds of drawing and painting and you can work in layers.
"ProCreate" does everything and the learning curve is very mild.
"ArtRage" I have only used for painting since it Oil Paint brushes are outstanding, but I think it does everything.
I have used them both on a standard 9.7 inch iPad and, my preference, is the 12" iPad.
Recommended.
Apr 18, 2023 20:36:55 #
rleonetti wrote:
Yes you can draw right on an iPad with a pen and s... (show quote)
Thanks, but I know that stuff.
My question was about being able to use the iPad (with pen) as you used to be able to use a Wacom tablet - in other words, scribbling around the tablet side to control the cursor on the main screen
Apr 18, 2023 23:29:48 #
f8lee wrote:
Thanks, but I know that stuff.
My question was about being able to use the iPad (with pen) as you used to be able to use a Wacom tablet - in other words, scribbling around the tablet side to control the cursor on the main screen
My question was about being able to use the iPad (with pen) as you used to be able to use a Wacom tablet - in other words, scribbling around the tablet side to control the cursor on the main screen
There are actual small Wacom tablets for a about $50.
Apr 19, 2023 01:27:58 #
f8lee wrote:
I did a search and could not find an answer... br ... (show quote)
If that is possible, many would be doing it by now.
interesting question and watching for answers.
Looking at the apple specs, I do not see any entry about pressure sensitivity. That is the main thing about the Wacom or similar pen & tablet input. How much pressure one applies changes the way the pen writes.
Thinking loudly; many devices can share screens, so it might be possible to throw the ipad screen to the macbook, but any processing will still be on the ipad, not on the macbook, as what would happen in a wacom input.
I'm curious if that would really be the case.
Apr 19, 2023 07:44:38 #
David Martin
Loc: Cary, NC
f8lee wrote:
Thanks, but I know that stuff.
My question was about being able to use the iPad (with pen) as you used to be able to use a Wacom tablet - in other words, scribbling around the tablet side to control the cursor on the main screen
My question was about being able to use the iPad (with pen) as you used to be able to use a Wacom tablet - in other words, scribbling around the tablet side to control the cursor on the main screen
Just curious - did you check to see if any of the apps I mentioned above would accomplish what you want?
Apr 19, 2023 16:02:51 #
Apple makes a trackpad for that. The old one I use cost $20 (no longer available) but the new replacement is glass like an iPad and I glanced at it and think it was priced about $120. I think this is like the old Wacoms I used.
Nov 16, 2023 03:02:07 #
With Ventura and Sonoma I have set up the iPad as an extension of the display. Then drag an app window to it and tap the top bar to resize it. I have done this with Topaz Photo AI and Photoshop. Apple Pencil can then be used for editing masks. Apple Pencil doesn’t always work with all UI elements on the relocated app, e.g. some drop-down menus. Some tasks involve the keyboard, such as toggling between brush modes, so I keep the iPad near the keyboard. When done with pencil work, drag the app window back to the main display and resize it.
I have found this to be better than mousing for fine mask editing. But it’s not exactly what was described above. It is not a separate entry device that the app would understand.
I have found this to be better than mousing for fine mask editing. But it’s not exactly what was described above. It is not a separate entry device that the app would understand.
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.