Apple Pencil Pro vs USB-C vs Gen 2 vs Gen 1: Specs Comparison and Compatibility

May. 7, 2024

The speculations have turned out to be true. Apple launched thenew Apple Pencil Proat its “Let Loose” event on May 7. It was Apple’s first event of the year primarily focused on new hardware. The Cupertino tech giant unveiled the much-awaitedOLED iPad Proand thefirst-ever 12.9-inch iPad Air model. The Apple Pencil Pro is an amazing addition that brings some exciting new features for iPad users. In case you’re planning to buy an Apple Pencil or are excited to swap the older stylus for a new one, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ve compared all the Apple Pencils, so you can choose the right option. So, let’s get started and pick the best Apple Pencil for your iPad.

Apple Pencils: Features Compared

With the latest Apple Pencil Pro, Apple introduced a host of new features likeFind My app support and squeeze gesturesthat work with the new iPad models. Here’s a full rundown of the features supported by different Apple Pencil models.FeaturesApple Pencil ProApple Pencil USB-CApple Pencil 2Apple Pencil 1Pressure SensitivityYesNoYesYesLow LatencyYesYesYesYesTilt SensitivityYesYesYesYesPrecise writing and drawingYesYesYesYesWireless pairing and chargingYesNoYesNoMagnetic AttachmentYesYesYesNoDouble Tap tool changesYesNoYesNoApple Pencil hover supportYesYesYesNoSqueeze gestureYesNoNoNoBarell roll gestureYesNoNoNoFind My app supportYesNoNoNoFree EngravingYesNoYesNoNew Apple Pencil Pro vs Apple Pencil USB-C vs Apple Pencil 2 vs Apple Pencil 1

While we’re talking about the Apple Pencils, it’s important to understand which Apple Pencil works with which iPad models. Yes,not all Apple Pencils work with all iPads.For complete details, check out the compatibility list below:

Apple Pencil Pro

Apple Pencil USB-C

Apple Pencil 2

Apple Pencil 1

In case you don’t know which iPad you own, you cancheck out the iPad generation here.

Apple launched the new Apple Pencil Pro at $129, that’s the same price tag for the Apple Pencil 2nd generation. Amongst all the models, the Apple Pencil USB-C remains the most affordable option at $79. Check out the pricing for all Apple Pencil models:

The new Apple Pencil Pro brings some notable upgrades like thenew barrel roll and squeeze gesture support. That said, not every user needs these features. Also, you should always factor in the compatibility angle while choosing a stylus for your Apple Tablet.

If you’ve got a USB-C iPad and are looking for a budget-friendly Apple Pencil that gets the job done, the Apple Pencil USB-C is an affordable and capable stylus. Sure you’ll miss out on the flagship features offered by the latest stylus, but for someone who prefers a budget-friendly option, the USB-C one remains a top pick.

Coming to the $129 Apple Pencil Pro, it is by far the most feature-rich and top-of-the-line option. With some much-needed upgrades likeFind My app support, the new Apple Pencil Pro is bound to deliver the best overall experience and comes at the same price as the Apple Pencil 2nd generation. If you’re a digital artist and own a modern iPad, the Apple Pencil Pro is the best option and a worthy upgrade.

What do you think about the new Apple Pencil Pro? Which stylus are you planning to buy? Don’t forget to share your views in the comments below.