The Best of Both Worlds: Sketching in the Windows 11 Realm

If you are a professional artist or just a beginner wanting to begin your manga series, there are so many digital drawing apps available that it’s easy to become overwhelmed. As such, we have picked out some of the best drawing apps for Windows 10 so that you know exactly what you need.

Let’s see what each app offers and which one fits your needs the best.

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links

If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

1. Krita

Whether you are a professional artist or an amateur, Krita is the software to choose if you don’t want to spend money on drawing tools. The program supports the value of flexibility in the creative process, which is why it provides a flexible interface and customizable panels that you can set to your liking.

The official website is the only place where you can download the Krita app for free. Unfortunately, Krita is no longer a free download on Microsoft Store.

The stabilization tool helps keep lines smooth without any bumps or shakes. And for a change of style in your sketching, you can import free brush packs from the Krita community and mix up the tools you have at your disposal. Who knows, you might even find textures and patterns that fit you perfectly.

Download: Krita (Free, Paid)

2. Autodesk Sketchbook Pro

Thanks to its professional-level drawing tools and interface, Autodesk Sketchbook Pro has become quite a popular drawing software for artists , designers, and even architects. The application includes more than 190 brushes that you can customize based on your preferences.

In the sleek app interface, you can toggle the palettes and toolbars on and off so that the distractions are kept to a minimum so that you can concentrate on your work. Besides these features, you can experiment with blend modes and explore the vast color palette. Moreover, Sketchbook supports various formats, from PNG to PSD.

As for pricing, you can purchase the Sketchbook for $19.99 from the Microsoft Store. You can use the app on multiple devices with the same subscription plan.

Download:Sketchbook Pro (Paid)

3. Paint 3D

Paint 3D is a new version of MS Paint that can create 2D or 3D objects regardless of the user’s skill level. There are already existing models available for use, and you can also make your models if you are creative enough.

Paint 3D provides realistic textures and filters you can incorporate into your illustrations to give them soul. You can even turn your doodles into a 3D drawing by using the tools available in the app.

Among Paint 3D’s best features is its resizable canvas. It allows you to resize the existing window rather than open a new one. Lastly, because it is a built-in application in Windows, it is free of charge.

Download:Paint 3D (Free)

4. GIMP

Photoshop and GIMP are pretty similar. Most of its features are best for editing, but you can also use it as your main drawing and illustration tool. GIMP enables you to create beautiful artwork with unlimited textures and brushes that can be customized to fit your preferences.

Would you like to edit a picture? Maybe retouch it a little? GIMP offers various tools for image editing. Last but not least, you can easily enhance your artwork by adding third-party plugins to GIMP. GIMP is a free image editing software, which is a huge plus.

Download: GIMP (Free)

5. Sketchable

Sketchable serves as a journal and illustration app in one. You can scribble a note or paint a masterpiece; just let your creativity flow. For artists to concentrate on their work without distractions, Sketchable has an intuitive user interface.

You can plan your journal covers, font type, resolution, etc., in Sketchable. Using the Journal file format, you can export and share your journals with others easily. Furthermore, the tool allows creators to improvise brush stabilization tools and use symmetry.

Sketchable is a free tool that you can download from the Windows Store for basic sketching. Nevertheless, each premium tool costs around $1.99. Thus, if you are an avid illustrator, you can get the entire package for just $19.99.

Download: Sketchable (Free, in-app purchases available)

6. Paintstorm Studio

Paintstorm Studio is a beginner-friendly drawing software with many brushes, canvas, and color wheels. The canvas is high resolution, with options for different dimensions, ranging from millimeters to inches.

A wide range of tools in the Paintstorm Studio are designede for different types of artwork, such as contemporary artwork, a traditional portrait, or a comic book series.

The software has a wide selection of brushes, a stabilizer tool, and a clean interface with custom panels for hassle-free illustration. Paintstorm Studio is one of the best drawing apps (and is therefore on our list); however, keep in mind that the Windows version often tends to ‘freeze.’

Paintstorm Studio offers a free trial for 30 launches, after which you’ll have to pay. Subscribing to their plan will give you a lifetime supply of brushes and other features.

Download: Paintstorm Studio (Paid, Free-trial available)

7. Mediabang Paint

Mediabang is another excellent option for those interested in comics and illustration. Preloaded with more than 50 brushes, you can customize them according to your preferences. Comic Artists can create as they please by offering several free fonts, 800 pre-made tones and backgrounds, and easy collaboration with your team.

In addition, the software is compatible with the Cloud, which means you can access your drawings from any device that is synced to the same account. Additionally, its compatibility with iPhone, Android, and Mac makes it perfect for syncing with almost any device you own.

Additionally, it is free-to-use software, and unlike Paintstorm Studio, it is super lightweight and won’t slow down your computer. Mediabang should be your go-to choice regardless of your level of expertise

Download:Mediabang Paint (Free)

8. Inkscape

Inkscape is an excellent choice for those who want to try advanced drawing features for free. The tool boasts an intuitive interface, supports multiple sizes, and allows you to export your creations in various formats. Whether you’re a designer or a novice, you’ll find it equally helpful.

In Inkscape, you can sketch your ideas with the following features:

1. Pencils, pens, and calligraphy tools to draw objects from scratch.
2. Pre-added shapes and options to add texts and clones to draw with ease.
3. Customizable alignments, layer adjustments, and grouping options are available to transform objects already created.
4. Several color tools and fills to change the look of your drawing.
5. Control over trajectories and alignments through the use of path tools.
6. Support for incorporating text into your designs when necessary.

Download:Inkscape (Free)

9. Artweaver 7

Artweaver offers a good range of brushes and allows users to customize them as they wish. Its interface is very easy to use, so there is no steep learning curve. You can choose from pre-added themes to change the look of your canvas. The tool also supports keyboard shortcuts that can be customized.

The Artweaver can also record the painting process, which other drawing tools don’t offer. Users can replay how they made the fantastic drawing and showcase it to others. Furthermore, the tool supports pen tablets, allowing pro designers to unleash their creativity. Users can also add add-ons to extend the software’s functionality.

Artweaver also excels at collaboration; you can add new team members and simultaneously work on a single drawing. Although Artweaver offers a free version to enjoy essential drawing tools, the advanced features are only available in its paid version, which can be purchased from the Artweaver product listing page . To make the most of Artweaver and other drawing tools, you should check out online drawing courses and websites that teach you how to draw better .

Download:Artweaver 7 (Free, Paid)

Get the Drawing App of Your Choice

Although these are the best drawing apps for Windows 10 currently available on the market, the best one for you depends on the type of work you do and the tools you need. GIMP is your best bet if you’re into both editing and illustration, while Paint 3D is your best option if you’re into 3D models and drawings. Hence, the best choice depends on your needs.

Are you trying your hand at drawing for the first time? If so, consider using sites like Drawspace, Drawing Coach, Arty Factory to sharpen your drawing skills.

If you are a professional artist or just a beginner wanting to begin your manga series, there are so many digital drawing apps available that it’s easy to become overwhelmed. As such, we have picked out some of the best drawing apps for Windows 10 so that you know exactly what you need.

Let’s see what each app offers and which one fits your needs the best.

Also read: