People ask what I draw with, usually expecting a long list. It’s short, and most of it was cheap. Here is the setup as of this month.

The hardware

• A used iPad, sixth generation, which is slow in places but still runs everything I need
• A stylus that costs far less than the famous one, with a fine tip that I replaced once
• A matte screen protector that gives a little grip, like pencil on paper
• A cheap stand, because drawing flat on a table made my neck complain

The apps

• Procreate for most drawings, because I like how quickly it responds
• A free app for days when I only want to doodle and don’t want to open anything fancy
• The built-in Notes app for rough ideas, which is better than it sounds

My settings

I turned on stroke smoothing a little at a time until my lines stopped looking shaky but didn’t feel like I was drawing through syrup. I keep the undo gestures switched on. I use a plain light gray canvas rather than pure white, which is easier on my eyes in the evening.

What I’d buy first

If you already own an iPad, start with a free app and a basic stylus. Wait a month before spending more. You’ll know what you actually miss.