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Procreate on Mac?

Is There a Procreate for Mac?

No, Procreate’s developer, Savage Interactive, currently has no plans to release a macOS version. As of now, Procreate is available only on iPad and iPhone (with Procreate Pocket). With the introduction of the M1 chip, there was hope that iOS apps like Procreate could run on Macs. However, changes made by Apple in 2021 have made this nearly impossible. Some suggested using PlayCover software, but it comes with many challenges. For now, running Procreate on a Mac, either directly or via sideloading, remains off the table.

Procreate: The iPad Favorite

Procreate is a top pick among Apple users for its easy-to-use drawing, painting, and illustrating tools, all for a one-time fee of $19.99. But what if you want to use Procreate on your Mac? Unfortunately, there isn’t a version for macOS. So, what are your options? Luckily, there are several great alternatives for MacBook users.

Top Alternatives to Procreate for MacBook

Don’t be disheartened! There are fantastic apps available that let you create stunning digital artwork on your Mac.

1. Tayasui Sketches

Compatibility: Mac, iOS, and Android

Features:

Tayasui Sketches offers a minimalist dashboard where brushes, markers, and pens are neatly arranged. You can preview each tool’s stroke before drawing on the canvas. The app supports unlimited layers, allowing for complex creations. It even has a Wet Watercolor brush for realistic painting effects.

Pros:

- Minimalist and easy to use

- Unlimited layers

- Extensive tools for drawing and coloring

- Zen Mode for a distraction-free interface

Cons:

- Free version limits to two layers

- No canvas rotation

Verdict:

Tayasui Sketches is an excellent Procreate alternative for artistic drawings on a Mac. Subscribe to Setapp and get Tayasui Sketches along with many other creative apps. For instance, use Image2icon to convert your drawings into colorful Mac icons.

2. Adobe Express

Compatibility: Web-based

Features:

Adobe Express is a free, cloud-based image editor perfect for social media graphics, marketing materials, and more. With a drag-and-drop interface and hundreds of templates, it’s easy to create professional-looking designs. Upgrade to Premium for $11.99/month for access to Adobe stock photos and advanced features.

Pros:

- Beautiful templates

- Up to 100GB of cloud storage for premium users

- Artwork scheduling for social media

- Automated image resizer

Cons:

- No SVG support

- Some elements load slowly

Verdict:

Adobe Express is ideal for quickly producing digital assets without needing complex editing skills.

3. Krita

Compatibility: Mac

Features:

Krita is a free, open-source image editor with a powerful brush engine for smooth lines and strokes. It’s less resource-intensive than similar apps like Photoshop, making it great for multitasking. Krita also includes helpful hints for easier navigation.

Pros:

- Free

- Comprehensive brush selection

- User-friendly

Cons:

- Occasional crashes

- Limited tutorials and documentation

Verdict:

Krita is perfect for digital artists and illustrators looking for a robust, free image editor.

4. ArtStudio Pro

Compatibility: Mac and iPad

Features:

ArtStudio Pro leverages Apple’s Metal technology for seamless performance. It offers a wide range of brushes and allows customization with over 80 settings. The app supports unlimited layers and integrates well with Photoshop, making it a versatile choice for digital artists.

Pros:

- Supports unlimited layers

- Extensive brush library

- Saves work to iCloud

- Can open multiple files at once

Cons:

- Large .psd files can slow down the Mac

- No free trial

- Autosave pop-ups can be disruptive

Verdict:

ArtStudio Pro is a feature-rich and affordable alternative to Procreate on Mac.

5. Adobe Photoshop

Compatibility: Mac

Features:

Photoshop is a powerhouse for professional designers, offering advanced photo editing tools. You can remove objects with AI, change moods with neural filters, and more. However, it comes with a steep learning curve and a monthly cost of $22.99.

Pros:

- Extensive editing tools

- In-depth learning resources

Cons:

- Expensive

- Overwhelming for beginners

Verdict:

Photoshop is best suited for professional production due to its comprehensive feature set.

Procreate FAQs

Why can’t you use Procreate on a MacBook?

Procreate is only available for iPad and iPhone, and sideloading the iOS version on a Mac isn’t possible.

How to access Procreate files on Mac?

To access Procreate files on your Mac, use Disk Drill. It backs up your iPad, allowing you to manage your files on your Mac.

Can you use Procreate on an iPhone?

Yes, Procreate Pocket is available for iPhone, offering a similar drawing experience.

Is Procreate free?

Procreate costs $19.99 for a lifetime license.

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