Here’s how to connect Apple Pencil to iPad in a couple of easy steps

We've also got a compatibility guide and troubleshooting instructions to follow.

How to connect apple pencil to ipad

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Apple Pencil and iPad is possibly one of the best tablet and peripheral combinations in the eleven-year history of the tablet. Whilst the idea is nothing new, using a stylus with a touchscreen for note-taking and even drawing, it’s that Apple polish that makes the iPencil and iPad experience a cut above the rest. 

Multiple companies have tried to emulate its success, from the Microsoft Surface line to the latest Samsung Galaxy tablet lines, but the pinpoint accuracy, sensitivity, and overall feel of the product are second to none.

Before buying an Apple Pencil to go with your iPad, you’ll need to see if your iPad is compatible and with which Apple Pencil:

Apple Pencil (1st Generation)

How to connect apple pencil to ipad

You can use Apple Pencil (1st generation) with these iPad models:

  • iPad (9th generation)
  • iPad (8th generation)
  • iPad mini (5th generation)
  • iPad (7th generation)
  • iPad (6th generation)
  • iPad Air (3rd generation)
  • iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st or 2nd generation)
  • iPad Pro 10.5-inch
  • iPad Pro 9.7-inch

Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)

How to connect apple pencil to ipad

You can use Apple Pencil (2nd generation) with these iPad models: 

  • iPad mini (6th generation)
  • iPad Air (4th generation)
  • iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation) and later
  • iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation) and later
1

How to connect Apple Pencil to iPad

How to connect apple pencil to ipad

If you find your Apple Pencil isn’t working, it may need a good charge before using it, especially if you buy a preowned one. Once fully charged, see below for instructions on how to connect and pair your Apple Pencil to an iPad.

STEP
1

How to connect 1st generation Apple Pencil to iPad

How to connect apple pencil to ipad

Remove the top cap on the Apple Pencil to reveal a Lightning connector, plug this into your iPads charging port. This should prompt a ‘Pair’ button to appear on-screen, tap and your Apple Pencil is good to go.

STEP
2

How to connect 2nd generation Apple Pencil to iPad

How to connect apple pencil to ipad

There’s a magnetic connector on the left-hand side of your compatible iPad for the 2nd generation iPencil. Simply place your iPencil on the magnetic connector to charge and pair it with the iPad.

STEP
3

Apple Pencil won’t sync with iPad

How to connect apple pencil to ipad

Here are the official troubleshooting steps from Apple if this is the case. If you’re still out of luck, contact Apple Support:

  • Make sure you center your Apple Pencil (2nd generation) on the magnetic connector on the right-hand edge of the iPad. For an Apple Pencil (1st generation), remove the cap and plug in your Apple Pencil to the Lightning connector on your iPad.
  • Restart your iPad, then try to pair again.
  • Go to Settings > Bluetooth and make sure that Bluetooth is turned on.
  • On the same screen, look under My Devices for your Apple Pencil. If you see it, tap ‘i’. Then tap Forget this Device.
  • Connect your Apple Pencil to your iPad and tap the Pair button when it appears after a few seconds. 
  • If you don’t see the Pair button, wait for one minute while your Apple Pencil charges. Then try connecting your Apple Pencil again and wait until you see the Pair button.

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