If you’re a digital artist or graphic design fan, you’ve probably heard of Procreate—yep, it’s that app that iPad users can’t stop swooning over. With its intuitive interface, customizable brushes, and brilliant layering tools, Procreate has become a go-to app for creatives. But… here’s the kicker—Procreate is exclusive to iPad. And for Windows users? Cue the collective groan.
Don’t worry; we’ve got your back. Windows is packed with fantastic apps that rival (and, dare we say, even exceed) Procreate’s brilliance. Whether you’re casually sketching ideas or creating detailed works of art, the right app can make all the difference.
This guide is here to help you discover apps similar to Procreate for Windows that are just as intuitive and powerful. From beginner-friendly tools to professional-grade software, we’ve rounded up eight Procreate alternatives you’ll fall in love with.
What Makes a Good Procreate Alternative?
Before we jump into the list (and trust me, it’s a good one), let’s talk about what makes a solid Procreate alternative for Windows. Here are some key features to look for:
- Intuitive Interface: Nobody needs a tutorial that feels longer than a Netflix binge. The app should feel easy to use right out of the box.
- Customizable Brushes: Whether you love precision or bold, expressive strokes, having diverse brush options is a game-changer.
- Layering Tools: A must for adding depth and details while keeping things organized.
- Cross-Platform Usability (optional): If it integrates with other devices or tools, bonus points!
- Price Flexibility: From free drawing apps like Procreate to professional paid tools, affordability matters.
Now, with that checklist in mind, let’s explore the best apps like Procreate for Windows.
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Top 8 Alternatives to Procreate for Windows
1. Krita – Professional and Free
Why we love it:
- It’s open-source, meaning it’s not only free but constantly updated by its devoted community.
- You get a customizable interface and an extensive library of brushes.
- Suitable for illustrators, concept designers, and even animators.
Krita feels like a love letter to digital artists who want power-packed features without spending a penny. Is it beginner-friendly? Absolutely. But it also satisfies the pros with advanced options like vanishing points and vector text.
Ideal for: Illustrators who want professional-grade tools on a budget.
2. Adobe Fresco – Creativity Unleashed
Why we love it:
- Offers “Live Brushes” for stunningly realistic watercolor and oil effects.
- Seamless cross-device functionality tying into Adobe’s ecosystem.
While Fresco shares some features with Photoshop, it’s built with painters and digital artists in mind. Yes, there’s a subscription fee, but if you’re already in Adobe’s ecosystem, it’s worth considering.
Ideal for: Artists looking for Procreate-like performance plus Adobe’s advanced tools.
3. Autodesk SketchBook – Quick and Versatile
Why we love it:
- Its easy-to-use interface makes doodling or detailed art a breeze.
- Packed with tools like custom brushes, curved rulers, and blending modes.
SketchBook feels like a warm hug for artists who just want to sketch without delay. The app’s streamlined workspace keeps the focus on your creativity, not a dozen tabs.
Ideal for: Designers who want a lightweight yet powerful option for sketches or detailed work.
4. Clip Studio Paint – Perfect for Comics
Why we love it:
- Built with comic artists and illustrators in mind. Hello, panel layout tools!
- Supports animation, making it a go-to for creatives exploring multiple media.
From manga creators to professional illustrators, Clip Studio Paint is a powerhouse. Its brush engine stands out, and the ability to handle raster and vector graphics is top-notch.
Ideal for: Artists working on comics, manga, or intricate illustrations.
5. Affinity Designer – Vector Graphics Meets Art
Why we love it:
- Mixes raster and vector designs seamlessly.
- A clean, intuitive interface perfect for complex illustrations or graphics.
Whether it’s branding, UI/UX design, or digital art, Affinity Designer is redefining versatility at its affordable one-time purchase price.
Ideal for: Multitasking creatives switching between vector and raster workflows.
6. Corel Painter – Brushes That Mimic Reality
Why we love it:
- Famous for its hyper-realistic brush options, from oil paints to charcoal.
- Packed with helpful tools like symmetry and composition guides.
If traditional techniques are your jam and you want to replicate them digitally, Corel Painter is calling your name. Yes, the price tag leans higher, but its immersive experience is unmatched.
Ideal for: Artists seeking lifelike textures and traditional art styles.
7. MediBang Paint – Lightweight for Manga Lovers
Why we love it:
- Specializes in features for comic and manga creation.
- Includes cloud storage for multi-device collaboration.
Compact, free, and surprisingly powerful, MediBang Paint proves that great things come in small packages. It’s perfect for creators who want simplicity without sacrificing features.
Ideal for: Manga and comic artists working on the go.
8. ArtRage – Traditional Painting on a Screen
Why we love it:
- Specifically built to emulate tools like oil, canvas textures, and watercolor.
- Beginner-friendly with an emphasis on traditional art simulation.
ArtRage feels as close to painting on an actual canvas as it gets (without the mess). For anyone nostalgic for real-life textures, this one’s got you covered.
Ideal for: Traditional artists transitioning to digital landscapes.
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FAQs About Procreate Alternatives
Q. Is Procreate Available for Windows?
Unfortunately, no. Procreate is exclusive to iPads, and there’s no version for Windows or other operating systems.
Q. What Are the Best Free Drawing Apps Like Procreate for Windows?
If you’re on a budget, apps like Krita, Autodesk SketchBook, and MediBang Paint offer excellent free options.
Q. How Do These Apps Compare to Procreate?
Each app shines in its own way. While Procreate combines exceptional ease of use with robust tools, many Alts (such as Krita and Corel Painter) rival it in their specific features.
Unleash Your Creativity—No iPad Required
Whether you’re sketching cartoon characters or crafting lifelike portraits, an app similar to Procreate for Windows can meet your creative needs. Each alternative in this guide brings unique features to the digital canvas. Start with a free option like Krita or MediBang Paint to explore fewer commitments upfront. Once you find “the one,” upgrading to more robust tools might just take your art to the next level.
Remember, the perfect software won’t create the next masterpiece—you will. Creativity knows no operating system, so grab your stylus and start creating magic.
Happy drawing!
