I have tested every recommendation on this page. Many of them are crucial to my own workflow. Before digging into the awesome accessories I know and trust, an important disclosure:
Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that I have experience with all of accessories, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money on these products unless you feel you need them or that they will help you achieve your goals.
1
If you are new to drawing on the iPad, then you must invest in a quality screen protector. It protects the screen from scratches and makes a day-and-night difference compared to drawing on bare glass. I've tested many, from cost-effective products to super high premium products like Paperlike. My favorite so far is in the middle in terms of cost by Uppercase. I think it offers the best paper-like experience while being finger and glare-resistant. I also had the most effortless installation experience with zero bubbles, which is rare.
2
While Apple Pencil is beautiful, but it hurts my fingers after drawing for prolonged periods. Not to mention it's also slippery that I often drop it on my tile floor at home...I know it's just a matter of time before it stops working! A simple and elegant solution by Paperlike fixes this for me. It's a small grip that provides maximum grip or precision (you get two to choose your preference). It works with 2nd Generation magnetic charging and is also compatible with 1st-generation apple pencil. There are no color options besides the translucent white, which makes it easy to decide. An alternative to the grip option is Elago's full-body pencil sleeve, which provides maximum protection from drop, and has a classic vintage-like aesthetic. I've used this for a long time and have only recently switched to the Paperlike grip.
3
Going to construction site visits is a weekly occurrence for me, and bringing my iPad has become an indispensable tool. I use it to take photos, markup drawings, and store all my project directories. I need my iPad to be protected, nimble, and lightweight so I can comfortably carry it around the site. A simple soft-care sleeve by ESR does the job. It's slim and lightweight that protects the iPad without adding bulk. I only put it on when I leave home. Inside the house, my iPad sits in the Apple Magic Case, which I use as a secondary device to my Macbook Pro.
4
Apple's Magic Case is one of those unnecessary but nice-to-have items if money ain't a thing. Luckily I found an open box condition with a steep discount. It makes the iPad much more useful as a secondary mobile computer, although it cannot replace an actual laptop or desktop. It's great for researching, sending emails, and reading drawing sets.
5
If you are anything like me where you spend hours sketching, designing, and drawing on the iPad at home, consider buying a Sketchboard Pro...because your back and neck will thank you! It's a big surface that allows you to sit your iPad flush to a cut-out so that your arm has a place to rest. The board can also be angled on the table, so you don't have to hunch over; this is important for long-term comfort. BUT, it's a little on the big side, so I wouldn't travel with it. With Sketchboard Pro, you can be MUCH more comfortable drawing on the couch, sitting on the floor, and in bed.
6
Lastly, depending on how greasy your paws are. That beautiful iPad screen might look like your fingers threw up on the screen when it's turned off. I used an all-in-one cleaning kit by Paperlike to keep it nice and clean. It's a microfiber spray bottle that I use to clean my iPad screen and Macbook display. With several sprays and wipes, you can get rid of fingerprints, coffee stains, or any saliva residues.