What are the must-have accessories for a new tablet user?

Question

I just pulled the trigger on a new iPad for my graphic design classes starting next Monday and honestly I am so stressed about getting the right gear for it. I have basically zero experience with tablets for actual work so I am staring at Amazon and everything looks the same but the prices are all over the place. I really dont want to end up with a drawer full of junk I dont use.

I did some digging and saw everyone talking about those Paperlike screen protectors because they make it feel like real paper which sounds great for drawing but then I saw a bunch of reviews saying they ruin your Apple Pencil tips in like a month and make the screen look blurry? That sounds terrible so now I dont know if I should just stick with a regular glass one or what. Also cases are a nightmare because some have keyboards but they are so expensive and heavy.

Here is what I am dealing with:

Budget is around $150 total for everything since the tablet already broke the bank

I need to use it for drawing and also taking fast notes in lectures

It has to be light enough to shove in my backpack for the commute

I am in a rainy city so maybe something somewhat durable?

Do I actually need a keyboard if I am mostly drawing or can I get by with just a stylus and a stand? I am so worried I will scratch the screen if I dont get the right stuff right away...

Dixieallot · Accepted Answer

Regarding what #1 said about "Apple Pencil 2nd Generation Stylus ESR Tempered Glass..." — im really satisfied with that advice tbh. Glass is the way to go for clarity. Since you're worried about the commute and the rain, my advice is to skip those bulky keyboard cases. They weigh a ton and the protection is often kinda meh. I've been using a slim case and a separate keyboard for years and it works well for my design workflow. Heres what I'd grab to stay under that $150 mark:

Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard Grey

Moft Invisible Tablet Stand Adhesive Foldable Grey

ProCase iPad Air 10.9 Inch Lightweight Smart Cover Case If you want more deep dives into art gear, check out Teoh Yi Chie on YouTube. He does amazing reviews for artists on a budget... basically saved me from buying a bunch of junk I didnt need when I started design school.

jjpwddmwqx · Answer

Apple Pencil 2nd Generation Stylus ESR Tempered Glass Screen Protector I've found glass is safer for clarity and wont eat your pencil tips. You dont need a keyboard yet!