How to Set Up Apple Pencil on iPad

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Check Apple Pencil compatibility

   Verify your iPad model supports your Apple Pencil generation. Apple Pencil (1st gen) works with iPad (6th-10th gen), iPad Air (3rd gen), iPad mini (5th gen), and iPad Pro (1st-2nd gen). Apple Pencil (2nd gen) works with iPad Pro (3rd gen and later), iPad Air (4th-5th gen), and iPad mini (6th gen).

   Note: The USB-C Apple Pencil works with all iPad models that have a USB-C port, offering a budget-friendly alternative with most core features.
2. 1 min

   Pair Apple Pencil with your iPad

   For Apple Pencil (1st gen), remove the cap and plug it into your iPad's Lightning port. For Apple Pencil (2nd gen), attach it magnetically to the right side of your iPad. A pairing dialog will appear automatically within 3-5 seconds. Tap Pair to complete the connection.

   Note: If the pairing dialog doesn't appear, go to Settings > Apple Pencil and tap the pencil you want to connect.
3. 1 min

   Configure double-tap actions

   Open Settings > Apple Pencil. Under Double-Tap on Apple Pencil, choose your preferred action: Switch Between Current Tool and Eraser, Switch Between Current Tool and Last Used, Show Color Palette, or Off. Test the double-tap gesture by tapping twice on the flat side of the pencil near the tip.

   Note: The eraser option works seamlessly in apps like Notes and Procreate, making it the most practical choice for drawing and writing workflows.
4. 1 min

   Adjust pressure and tilt sensitivity

   Navigate to Settings > Apple Pencil > Touch Accommodations if available on your iPad model. Enable Apple Pencil accommodations to customize pressure sensitivity and tilt response. Adjust the pressure curve to match your drawing style - lighter pressure for detailed work or heavier pressure for bold strokes.

   Note: Most drawing apps like Procreate and Adobe Fresco have their own pressure sensitivity settings that override system settings for finer control.
5. 1 min

   Enable Scribble for handwriting

   Go to Settings > Apple Pencil > Scribble and toggle it on. This allows you to write directly in any text field with your Apple Pencil, and iPadOS will convert your handwriting to typed text automatically. Test it by opening Notes and writing with your Apple Pencil in a text area.

   Note: Scribble works in multiple languages. Add additional languages in Settings > General > Language & Region to write in different scripts.
6. 1 min

   Set up charging preferences

   For Apple Pencil (2nd gen), charging happens automatically when magnetically attached to your iPad. Monitor battery level in the Batteries widget or Settings > Apple Pencil. For Apple Pencil (1st gen), charge by connecting to your iPad's Lightning port or using the included adapter with a Lightning cable.

   Note: Apple Pencil (2nd gen) charges to 80% in about 15 minutes when attached to iPad, providing hours of use even with brief charging sessions.
7. 1 min

   Test functionality in compatible apps

   Open the Notes app and create a new note. Test pressure sensitivity by varying your grip pressure while drawing. Test tilt functionality by drawing at different angles. Try your double-tap action setting and verify Scribble converts your handwriting correctly.

   Note: Download apps like Procreate, GoodNotes, or Adobe Fresco to fully experience Apple Pencil's capabilities beyond basic note-taking.