How to Use Procreate with a Mac

Introduction

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So, you're an artist or designer who loves using Procreate, but you've got a Mac sitting around that you want to use with it, and you're wondering if you can use Procreate on a Mac. The short answer is no, but an even longer (kind of convoluted) answer is yes! 

First off, let's address the elephant in the room: there isn't an official Procreate app for Mac computers. That might seem like a bummer at first, but don't fret just yet. Despite the lack of a native Procreate Mac version, there is one workaround that can still give you a great drawing experience. 

In this guide, I’ll introduce you to the one and proven way to make the most out of Procreate on your Mac. Now, you might be wondering why you'd want to use Procreate on a Mac in the first place. Well, the main reason for most artists is the preference for larger screens, or perhaps you're already comfortable with Procreate app and workflow and want to integrate an additional screen into your creative process. Who knows?

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Display Cable : Mirroring Your iPad Screen

Because most ways to utilize your iPad with a Mac is to just use the iPad as a secondary screen (third party apps like Astropad, Duet Display, etc.), you won’t be able to use Procreate with any other method aside from this one.

Using an HDMI cable is a straightforward method to connect your iPad to your Mac and use Procreate. While it might not offer the same level of integration as some other methods, it's a simple and reliable way to mirror your iPad screen onto your Mac and work with Procreate on a larger display.

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To use an HDMI cable with your iPad and Mac, you'll need an HDMI adapter compatible with your iPad model. These adapters typically have a Lightning or USB-C connector on one end to plug into your iPad and an HDMI port on the other end to connect to your Mac. Once you have the adapter, simply plug it into your iPad and connect the HDMI cable to the adapter and your Mac's HDMI port.

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Using an HDMI cable with Procreate offers several benefits:

- High-quality display: HDMI cables provide a direct connection between your iPad and Mac, resulting in high-quality video and audio output. This means you'll experience minimal lag and a crisp, clear image when using Procreate on your Mac.

- Cost-effective solution: HDMI cables and adapters are widely available and relatively inexpensive compared to other methods. If you already have an HDMI cable and adapter, you can start using Procreate on your Mac without any additional cost.

- Compatibility with external displays: In addition to mirroring your iPad screen onto your Mac, you can also use HDMI cables to connect your iPad to external displays, such as monitors or TVs. This allows you to showcase your Procreate artwork on a larger screen for presentations or sharing with others.

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On default, you will mirror your Procreate screen will be mirrored 1:1 but if you just toggle the “Project Canvas” in the settings, your mirrored canvas will stay in full view regardless of the zooms and such.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, while there isn't an official Procreate app for Mac, there IS a way to use Procreate on your Mac using this method. I know this is miles away from an actual Procreate app for desktops, but as of releasing this blog, we’ll actually let you in on a little news:

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We might be getting a Procreate for Desktop!

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Yeah! You read that right! James, the CEO and Co-Founder of Procreate recently posted this on X (Formerly Twitter) on April 22, 2024. It’s still in evaluation, so it might be a long time before it comes to fruition, but here’s to hoping we can have a legitimate Procreate for Macs.

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Happy drawing!

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