In this post we will go over what an Apple Pencil is and how it functions. We will also show which pencil corresponds with which iPads.
What it is?
An apple pencil is a device that acts as a powerful and precise art tool to use on digital art apps on iPads.
They are also excellent for taking notes, signing and marking up documents, and any general app you use for drawing and handwriting.
Here at SDM we use them to teach digital art with a program called Procreate.
Here is a List of Apps that are great to use with the Apple pencil.
How does it work?
First pair the Apple pencil through Bluetooth. Depending on which generation pencil, the user can simply plug it into the port at the bottom of the iPad to pair it.
The iPad and pencil work together to collect location, pressure, and orientation data. There is minimal lag, and pixel perfect precision.
This allows apps to be used with precision. It is an excellent option for professionals.
Generations
There are two generations of Apple Pencils.
1st Generation
The 1st Generation Apple pencil came out in 2015 and at the time it only worked on iPad Pro.
They have a magnetic cap that houses a lightning cable input.
Each package comes with an adapter to charge it with the same cord you use to charge the iPad, as well as a second tip.
The weight of the pencil is .95 oz.
The pencil is charged and paired by plugging into the iPad directly.
This pencil is compatible with the following devices:
iPad (6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th generations), iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad mini (5th generation), iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (1st and 2nd generations), iPad Pro 10.5‑inch and iPad Pro 9.7‑inchIPad (6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th generations), iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad mini (5th generation), iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (1st and 2nd generations), iPad Pro 10.5‑inch and iPad Pro 9.7‑inch.
2nd Generation
The 2nd Generation Apple pencil came out in 2018.
This pencil no longer has a magnetic cap. They charge magnetically upon contact with the iPad’s magnetic adapter.
This pencil also includes a second tip.
The weight of the pencil is .73 oz.
This pencil is compatible with the following devices:
iPad mini (6th generation), iPad Air (4th and generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th, and 5th generations), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, and 3rd generations). These models generally came out 2019 to the present.
Pricing
The 1st Gen pencil sells for around $99 USD.
The 2nd Gen Pencil sells for around $129 USD.
Non Apple Options
There are third party devices that look and act similar to the Apple pencil. At SDM we have limited experience with these pencils and cannot recommend them.
Other computers and programs can also benefit from the kind of precision offered in the iPad/pencil combination. There are similar options for other touchscreen devices. The Surface pen is one example. We can help if you need more information in this area.
More Information
If you would like further information on these products check out The Apple Pencil Page.
If you would like more information from us with this process, just call or email and we’ll be happy to assist you!
Additionally, if you have specific questions, or if our terminology isn’t clear, please use our contact form to send us a message. Thank you!