Apple Pencil compatibility 2024: Which models work with which iPads?

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Since 2015, Apple has released four different models of the Apple Pencil, and not every Apple Pencil works with every iPad. This guide shows you which Apple Pencils are compatible with which iPads and vice versa.

The new Apple Pencil Pro is only compatible with iPads released in 2024. The recent Apple Pencil (USB-C) also works with 2024 iPads and is backward compatible with every iPad supported by the Apple Pencil (2nd generation).

Released in 2015, the original Apple Pencil is compatible mostly with discontinued iPad models. It supports the 10th-generation standard iPad, our top pick for the best iPad, but requires an adapter to charge.

Below is a comprehensive breakdown of Apple Pencil compatibility, listing Apple Pencil models in descending order of release with their respective compatible iPads.

Apple Pencil Pro, released in 2024

The latest Apple Pencil model, the Apple Pencil Pro, is only compatible with the following new tablets:

• iPad Pro 11- and 13-inch 2024 (M4)
• iPad Air 11- and 13-inch 2024 (M2)
• iPad Mini 2024 (A17 Pro)

Apple Pencil (USB-C), released in 2023

The Apple Pencil (USB-C) is compatible with more iPads than any other Apple stylus, including tablets that date back to 2018:

• iPad Pro 11 and 13-inch 2024 (M4)
• iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 (1st gen), 2020 (2nd gen), 2021 (3rd gen), 2022 (4th gen)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2018 (3rd gen), 2020 (4th gen), 2021 (5th gen), 2022 (6th gen)
• iPad Air 11 and 13-inch 2024 (M2)
• iPad Air 2020 (4th gen), 2022 (5th gen)
• iPad 2022 (10th gen)
• iPad Mini 2024 (A17 Pro)
• iPad Mini 2021 (6th gen)

Apple Pencil (2nd generation), released in 2018

The Apple Pencil (2nd generation), incompatible with any 2024 iPad model, only supports the following previous-generation tablets:

• iPad Mini 2021 (6th gen)
• iPad Air 2020 (4th gen), 2022 (5th gen)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2018 (3rd gen), 2020 (4th gen), 2021 (5th gen), 2022 (6th gen)
• iPad Pro 11-inch 2018 (1st gen), 2020 (2nd gen), 2021 (3rd gen), 2022 (4th gen)

Apple Pencil (1st generation), released in 2015

The original Apple Pencil is only compatible with these older iPads:

• iPad Mini 2019 (5th gen)
• iPad 2018 (6th gen), 2019 (7th gen), 2020 (8th gen), 2021 (9th gen)
• iPad 2022 (10th gen) *Requires USB-C to Apple Pencil adapter
• iPad Air 2019 (3rd gen)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2015 (1st gen), 2017 (2nd gen)
• iPad Pro 10.5-inch 2017
• iPad Pro 9.7-inch 2016

How to tell which iPad model you have

Checking your iPad's model only takes three screen taps at most. Go to Settings > General > About. On the top right, you should see your iPad's "Model Name," which lists the iPad family (like Mini or Pro) and the generation number.

Alternatively, you can find your iPad's model number on the back of the iPad at the bottom in tiny letters next to the word "Model" and then look it up with a web search.

Apple Pencil FAQs

Is an Apple Pencil worth it?

iPad users who enjoy drawing or frequently take handwritten notes can certainly find value in the Apple Pencil, and it may be an essential tool for those who use the tablet professionally for visually intensive tasks.

Even if you don't typically draw or take handwritten notes, the ease and effectiveness of the Apple Pencil could change that. You may also find it a convenient way to navigate apps or the tablet's interface.

Which Apple Pencil is best for my iPad?

Those with any of the newest iPads, namely the iPad Air, Pro, or Mini models released in 2024, should opt for the Apple Pencil Pro. It exclusively offers worthwhile advanced features, including a "squeeze" function that brings up a new customization toolbar and haptic feedback.

The recent Apple Pencil (USB-C) can be considered a budget and relatively basic model; even if it supports your older iPad, you might want to opt for the older but higher-end Apple Pencil (2nd generation), which includes every Apple Pencil (USB-C) feature and more.

Notably, the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) has wireless pairing and charging, which is more convenient than the Apple Pencil (USB-C)'s wired charging. Artists will also value the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)'s pressure sensitivity and double-tap feature for changing drawing tools.

Certain older iPads are only compatible with the Apple Pencil (1st generation). While the original Apple Pencil supports the 10th-generation iPad, it requires an adapter to charge; we recommend the Apple Pencil (USB-C) instead for its additional features and more straightforward charging with the current standard iPad.

Do Apple Pencils work on an iPhone?

No. Apple Pencils don't work with the iPhone, not even as a simple stylus.

Do Apple Pencils come with extra tips?

Only the Apple Pencil (1st generation) comes with an extra tip. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation), Apple Pencil (USB-C), and Apple Pencil Pro do not come with extra tips.

Additional tips compatible with every Apple Pencil can be bought separately from Apple and third-party retailers like Amazon.