Best Digital Art Software for Manga Artists
- audreybagley
- Dec 8, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: 16 hours ago
If you’re diving into the world of manga or webtoon creation, you know how crucial the right tools are. Digital manga creation tools can make or break your workflow, your style, and ultimately, your art. I’ve spent countless hours testing and tweaking my setup, and I’m here to share what I’ve learned about the best digital art software for manga artists. Whether you’re sketching your first character or polishing a full chapter, the right software paired with the right brushes can elevate your work from good to wow.
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes digital manga creation tools stand out and how you can pick the perfect one for your style and needs.
FIRSTLY!
What inspires you?
Asking yourself this question is the first step towards making your creation whether it animated or in comic form. Make a vision board with your favourite artists and content that you aspire to be like. Let them be your compass!
SECOND!
What Digital Manga Creation Tools Do You Have?
Digital manga creation tools are more than just software…they’re your creative partner! They help you:
Streamline your workflow: Speed up sketching, inking, coloring, and editing.
Access specialized brushes: Manga and anime art require unique brush textures and effects.
Work non-destructively: Layers, masks, and undo options mean you can experiment without fear.
Export in multiple formats: Perfect for webtoons, print, or social media sharing.
If you’re serious about manga, investing time in learning the right tools is a game-changer. Plus, many of these programs come with customizable brushes that mimic traditional manga pen strokes, screentones, and shading techniques.
Top Digital Manga Creation Tools You Should Know
Here’s a rundown of some of the most popular and effective digital manga creation tools out there. Each has its strengths, so I’ll break down what makes them special.
Clip Studio Paint
This is the gold standard for manga artists. Clip Studio Paint offers:
Specialized manga tools: Screentones, panel layouts, and perspective rulers.
Customizable brushes: Including those that replicate traditional inking pens.
Animation features: Great for webtoon creators who want to add motion.
Affordable pricing: One-time purchase options and frequent sales.
If you want a program designed specifically for manga and comic creation, this is it.
Adobe Photoshop
Photoshop is a powerhouse for digital art in general. While not manga-specific, it’s incredibly versatile:
Extensive brush libraries: You can find or create manga-style brushes.
Powerful editing tools: Perfect for detailed coloring and effects.
Industry standard: Many pros use Photoshop for final touches.
The downside? It’s subscription-based and can be overwhelming for beginners.
Procreate
If you’re an iPad user, Procreate is a fantastic choice:
Intuitive interface: Easy to pick up and use.
High-quality brushes: Many manga and anime brush packs are available.
Portability: Draw anywhere, anytime.
Affordable: One-time purchase.
Procreate is perfect for artists who want flexibility and mobility without sacrificing quality.
Medibang Paint
A free alternative that’s surprisingly powerful:
Cloud syncing: Work on your manga across devices.
Manga-specific tools: Panels, screentones, and fonts.
Community features: Share your work and get feedback.
It’s a great starting point if you’re on a budget but still want professional features.
Krita
An open-source option with a lot to offer:
Customizable brushes: Including manga-style brushes.
Animation support: For webtoon creators.
Free to use: No strings attached.
Krita is perfect if you want a no-cost solution with a strong community behind it.
What do mangakas use to draw digitally?
You might wonder what the pros use when they switch from paper to pixels. Most professional mangakas rely on a combination of hardware and software tailored to their workflow.
Hardware: A high-quality drawing tablet or pen display like Wacom Cintiq, Huion Kamvas, or XP-Pen Artist. These devices offer pressure sensitivity and precision that mimic traditional pen and paper.
Software: Clip Studio Paint is the most popular choice among mangakas because of its manga-centric features. Many also use Photoshop for coloring and effects.
Brushes: Custom digital brushes that replicate traditional manga tools are essential. These include inking pens, screentone patterns, and texture brushes.
If you want to get close to that authentic manga feel, investing in the right brushes is just as important as the software itself. You can find some of the best digital art software for manga that come bundled with or support these brushes.
How to Choose the Right Software for Your Manga Style
Picking the right digital manga creation tools depends on your personal style, budget, and goals. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Consider your budget
Free options: Medibang Paint, Krita
One-time Very Affordable purchase: Clip Studio Paint, Procreate
Subscription: Adobe Photoshop
Think about your workflow
Do you want specialized manga tools? Clip Studio Paint is your best bet.
Need portability? Procreate on iPad is unbeatable.
Want versatility for other art styles? Photoshop or Krita might be better.
Brush customization
Look for software that supports importing or creating custom brushes.
Community and tutorials
Software with active communities means more tutorials and support.
Clip Studio Paint and Procreate have huge user bases and tons of resources.
Animation needs
If you want to create webtoons with motion, Clip Studio Paint and Krita offer animation features.
Tips for Using Digital Brushes to Enhance Your Manga Art
Digital brushes are your secret weapon. Here’s how to get the most out of them:
Experiment with brush settings: Adjust size, opacity, and pressure sensitivity to find what feels natural.
Use screentones wisely: They add texture and depth without cluttering your art.
Layer your strokes: Build up shading and details gradually.
Mix brush types: Combine hard inking brushes with soft shading brushes for dynamic effects.
Save your favorite brushes: Create a custom set for quick access.
Remember, the best brushes feel like an extension of your hand. Don’t be afraid to try different packs or even create your own.
Final Thoughts on Digital Manga Creation Tools
Choosing the right digital manga creation tools is a personal journey. The software and brushes you pick will shape your art style and workflow. Whether you’re just starting or looking to upgrade your setup, there’s a perfect match out there for you.
If you want to explore some of the best digital art software for manga and brushes that can bring your characters to life, definitely check out the resources available. With the right tools, your manga art will not only look professional but also feel more enjoyable to create.
Happy drawing, and may your digital pen never run dry!