If you love drawing beautiful art or want to take notes, you definitely can’t go wrong with a device like the Apple Pencil.
However, there are varying iPad models in the market, including the iPad Pro, and they are not all compatible with the Apple Pencil.
Moreover, there are different models of the Apple Pencil, which makes it difficult to determine its compatibility with the iPad models.
Apple Pencil 1 functions with iPad Pro but only with some of its models and generations. However, it is compatible with all iPad Pros, except the iPad Pro 1 (11-inch) and later and the iPad Pro 3 (12.9-inch) and later. However, Apple Pencil 1 is compatible with models like the iPad Air 3 and mini 5.
This article will guide you on your device compatibility, whether you want to purchase an iPad Pro or you need an Apple Pencil for your iPad Pro.
By the end of the article, you will know which iPad Pro is compatible with Apple Pencil 1.
Does Apple Pencil 1 Work With iPad Pro?
Apple Pencil 1 works with iPad Pro; however, it is only compatible with some models.
Due to its release around 2015, the Apple Pencil 1 only works on some iPad models built around the same year and later.
However, only some iPad Pros are compatible with the Apple Pencil 1. In addition, some of the iPad Pro models are suitable for the Apple Pencil 2.
If you recently acquired an Apple Pencil 1 or 2, here is how to determine your model:
- The Apple Pencil 1 has a cylindrical body with a glossy finish and an in-built Lightning connector. It also comes with a charging connector and a spare tip.
- The Apple 2 has a flat side and a smooth but matte finish, and it does not have a lightning connector. The second Gen Apple Pencil does not come with any extra packaging.
The 1st generation Apple Pencil consists of a magnetic cap or cover for concealing and protecting the Lightning adapter.
You can charge the Apple Pencil by plugging the Lightning connector into the Lightning port in your iPad Pro.
You can also charge the device using the Lightning adapter included in the Apple Pencil pack.
The adapter has two Lightning ports– one for plugging in the Apple Pencil and the other to connect to your Lightning charger.
Once you connect the charger to your iPad, it will display a Bluetooth pairing notification. After pairing, the iPad will connect to the Apple Pencil.
As for the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, you do not require a Lightning or USB charger. Instead, it uses magnetic charging technology.
You can also purchase a charging case for your Apple Pencil 2 if you do not want to use the iPad to charge it.
What iPads Are Compatible With the Apple Pencil 1?
The Apple Pencil 1 is compatible with most of the earlier and some of the recently released iPhone models from 2015.
The models include the iPad Pro, iPad mini, iPad, and iPad Air. Specifically, the iPads that are compatible with the Apple Pencil 1 include the following;
- iPad Pro 1 (12.9-inch)
- iPad Air 3
- iPad Pro 2 (12.9-inch)
- iPad Pro (10.5-inch)
- iPad mini 5
- iPad 6.
- iPad Pro (9.7-inch)
Unlike the Apple Pencil 1, the Apple Pencil 2 is suitable for the new iPad releases.
These include the iPad Air fourth generation (2020), the iPad mini sixth generation (2021), the iPad Pro third generation(12.9-inch, 2018), and all models of iPad Pro (11-inch).
Though both Apple Pencils are compatible with different models of iPads, they are also incompatible with some models of iPad.
Some of these incompatible iPads include the iPad mini 2, iPad Air 2, iPad 5, iPad 4, iPad Air 1, and iPad mini 3.
Both Apple Pencil models have great features though the Apple Pencil is an upgrade from the first and quite costly.
The table below shows the iPad models that are compatible with which versions of Apple Pencil;
| iPad/Apple Pencil Model | 1st Generation Apple Pencil | 2nd Generation Apple Pencil |
|---|---|---|
| iPad | 6 (2018) and later | None |
| iPad Pro (9.7-inch) | All models | None |
| iPad Mini | 5 (2019) | 6 (2021) |
| iPad Pro (11-inch) | None | All models |
| iPad Air | 3 (2019) | 4 (2020) and later |
| iPad Pro (12.9-inch) | 1(2015) and 2 (2017) | 3 (2018) and later |
| iPad Pro (10.5-inch) | All models | None |
The two Apple Pencil models have slightly different features. Though similar, they are not compatible with identical iPad models.
Therefore, to determine the stylus model you require, you need to consider the purpose the Apple Pencil will serve and your iPad model.
How Do I Use Apple Pencil 1 With iPad Pro?
To use your Apple Pencil 1 with your iPad Pro, pair the devices via Bluetooth to connect them.
Open the magnetic cap at the end of the Apple Pencil 1 and plug its Lightning connector into the Lightning port in your iPad.
Once you connect the Apple Pencil 1 to the iPad Pro, a pop-up notification will display on the iPad screen. Next, tap on the Pair button.
After pairing the device with your iPad Pro, the Apple Pencil will stay connected to the device. So you can use it to do anything your fingers can do on your iPad screen.
FAQs
#1. How Can I Connect an Apple Pencil To an iPad?
If you use an Apple Pencil 1, open the Lightning connector and plug it into your iPad Lightning port. Then, tap on the button that shows up on the screen.
#2. Can I Charge a 2nd Generation Apple Pencil 2 Without an iPad?
You can charge the 2nd generation Apple Pencil with a charging case. In addition, you can purchase in online or offline stores.
#3. How Do I Check the Battery Level of My Apple Pencil?
To monitor your Apple Pencil 1 battery status, locate the Notification center on your iPad, and scroll right to view the Widget screen. Then, tap the Battery widget to view the battery status.
Conclusion
In summary, the 1st generation of Apple Pencil is compatible with all models and generations of iPad Pro except;
- iPad Pro 3 (12.9-inch, 2018) and
- All models of iPad Pro (11-inch).
The Apple Pencil 1 is also compatible with other iPad models like the iPad mini 3 (2019), iPad Air 5 (2019), and iPad 6 (2018).