(02-04-2016, 07:06 PM)AekiraSwyfte Wrote: I'm currently using a combination of a Wacom Intuos5 and a 2010 iMac, and my favorite software is definitely Photoshop. Needless to say, though, I don't do a lot of digital art on the go.
While I'm always gonna be pro-apple for just about anything, if you want something mobile with as much versatility AND the ability to support some of the more common art programs than the Surface might be the way to go. However, if you're intent on an iMac and an apple pencil (really though? why's a stylus so expensive?) I DO know of a few similar programs that operate on the iPad. How well, though, I have no idea.
Procreate is a pretty good PS clone, and can export PS files. The problem with the IpadPro comes in when its hardware is put to test -- it cannot handle big file sizes or too many layers well, which makes it useless for any kind of serious work, or painting. It's GREAT at what it's meant to do, though, which is sketching.
The Cintiq Companion is also nice, but it's larger and heavier than a Surface, making it (ironically) way less portable. SP3 does not use the Wacom drivers, which is an absolute blessing for someone that has been in an abusive relationship with them for almost a decade.
As a final note, it really, really isn't the tools that make the artist. The only difference between an on-screen tablet and a tablet accessory is the slight increase in speed and coordination that comes with knowing where you put down a line. I still use my Intuous for certain projects!