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.

Christian Wait

Christian Wait

Easy steps to connect Apple Pencil to iPad.

Last Updated on

Wondering how to connect Apple Pencil to iPad? Well, here’s how!

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 of using a stylus with a touchscreen for note-taking, drawing, and sketching is nothing new, it’s that Apple polish that makes the Apple Pencil 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. It’s worth noting that 10th generation iPad has swapped out the Lightning port in favor of a USB-C port. Therefore, you’ll have to invest in a USB-C to Apple Pencil adapter and a compatible USB-C charge cable.

Apple Pencil (1st Generation)

How to connect apple pencil to ipad

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

  • iPad (10th generation – only when using USB-C adapter)
  • 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

Alternatively, you can use the Apple Pencil (2nd gen) with these iPad models:

  • iPad mini (6th generation)
  • iPad Air (4th generation and later)
  • 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’ve bought one that’s preowned. Once the Apple Pencil’s battery is 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 that you can plug into your iPad’s charging port. If you have an iPad 10th-gen, you’ll require a USB-C to Lightning adapter. Plugging in your Apple Pencil should prompt a ‘Pair’ button to appear on-screen. Simply tap Pair, 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

You should find that there’s a magnetic connector on the left-hand side of your iPad that will connect the 2nd generation Apple Pencil to your device. 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. It’s worth noting that your Apple Pencil and iPad should stay connected until you restart your device, turn it on Airplane Mode, or pair up your pencil with another iPad. So, you might just need to re-pair the two again if you’ve done any of those things recently. If you’re still out of luck, you can contact Apple Support to help you get the problem solved.

  • Make sure you center your second-generation Apple Pencil on the magnetic connector on the right-hand edge of the iPad. For the first-generation Apple Pencil, 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.

Hopefully, you’re Apple Pencil is now successfully connected to your iPad, and you can start enjoying the experience of using a high-end stylus and tablet together. For everything iOS, make sure to follow and bookmark the PCGuide News and iOS hubs.