As far as tablets are concerned, it's hard to beat the iPad. To optimize your best iPad, you will want to grab an iPad stylus because it adds another dimension to the tablet experience. While Apple does have two variations of the Apple Pencil for different models of iPad, many consider the pricing to be a little steep and they are not interchangeable: each only works with certain iPad model. Thankfully, there are cheaper styluses that still work great, many of which can be used on any iPad model. Here are some fantastic Apple Pencil alternatives that you can find on the market right now.
Universal stylus
When we reviewed the original ZAGG Pro Stylus, we liked that it attaches magnetically to an iPad Pro but works with all newer iPad models. The tip is very precise with tilt sensitivity and palm rejection. It charges via USB-C with a long-lasting battery. There is also a regular capacitive tip on the other end to use with your iPhone and other devices. The latest model also charges wirelessly and comes in five great colors.
Productivity booster
The Andonit Note-M is a unique Apple Pencil alternative since it also doubles as a mouse for your iPad. It's magnetic so it can attach to your iPad for easy storage and it features a precise tip and tilt sensitivity. The mouse functionality includes left and right click buttons and a touch panel for scrolling. The multi-angled mouse sensor also works up to 5mm away from the surface.
Highly affordable
The SwitchEasy EasyPencil Pro 3 looks just like the Apple Pencil 2 but has a much friendlier price point and is compatible with all newer iPads. The tip is precise and has palm rejection, charges via USB-C, and has a long-lasting battery. The EasyPencil can instantly pair with your iPad but, according to an iMore review, you should try to avoid touching the cap unless necessary since that turns it off.
Charge on your iPad
This stylus works on any iPad model from 2018 forward, and will even charge just like the Apple Pencil on the iPad models that have magnetic charging. No Bluetooth necessary; it pairs automatically. It has tilt sensitivity, palm rejection, and a replaceable tip. Functionally, it's a lot like the Apple Pencil 2 for less than half the price.
New and improved
We reviewed the older model of the Logitech Crayon and the new one is even better. Like the previous model, feels great to hold in hand and is roll-proof. It works with all iPads from 2018 and later and has a precise tip with palm-rejection technology and tilt sensitivity for dynamic line weight. While the original model charged via Lightning cable, this one charges via USB-C.
Simple and professional
The Adonit Pro 4 features a highly luxurious and professional aesthetic; in our review we found this to be the perfect stylus to take with you to business meetings. It has a precision tip with a soft touch precision disc to help you get the most accurate lines possible. When you're not using it, just use the grooved hook to attach the stylus to your pocket, bag, and more, just like a high-end pen.
Why would I want an alternative to the Apple Pencil?
While both the first-generation Apple Pencil and the newer Apple Pencil 2 are amazing, not everyone wants to pay the steep price for a stylus. Plus, the Apple Pencil and Apple Pencil 2 are not interchangeable; each only works with certain models. That's why there are so many third-party Apple Pencil alternatives out there with features. Some are quite similar Apple's but for a fraction of the price.
One of the biggest selling features of the second-generation Apple Pencil is that it's capable of wireless charging on the iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad mini 6. Some of the third-party stylus pens do have that feature but most do not.
The best alternatives to the Apple Pencil
You can always trust iMore. Our team of Apple experts have years of experience testing all kinds of tech and gadgets, so you can be sure our recommendations and criticisms are accurate and helpful. Find out more about how we test.
My current favorite is the ZAGG Pro 2 Stylus if you are looking for a recommendation. The color lineup is great, and it feels premium and hefty. The precise tip means you'll be writing and drawing accurately, and there is tilt sensitivity and palm rejection.
Another fantastic option is the Adonit Neo Pro, especially if you're a power user. This is one of the few third-party styluses with tilt sensitivity, plus it actually charges right on the iPad just like the Apple Pencil 2.
For those who want something like the Apple Pencil 2 but are on a tight budget, the SwitchEasy EasyPencil is a great alternative. It has the same design as the Apple Pencil 2 with a precise tip, and it can attach magnetically to your iPad Pro, but at a fraction of the cost.
Once you've bought one, think about snapping up one of the best note-taking apps for iPad and Apple Pencil to reap the benefits.
The Apple Pencil: your official option
While buying a third-party iPad stylus can help save you money, the official Apple Pencils are still worthwhile, especially if you can find one on sale, since they offer the best pressure sensitivity and work best with iPad drawing programs.
The newer version is known as the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and offers a magnetic flat side that attaches to the sides of compatible iPads for wireless charging. Meanwhile the original is known as the Apple Pencil (1st generation) and charges via a male lightning connection that's hidden under a cap at the bottom of the pencil. These styluses only work with specific iPads, so you must check compatibility to ensure that they will work with the iPad model you own.
