How to Pair Apple Pencil (1&2) to iPad

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Last Updated on March 21, 2023 by Ernests Embutnieks

If you are an iPad user and want to make the best out of your device, pairing it with an Apple Pencil is highly recommended. This small gadget can unlock the world of possibilities and features that will make working on an iPad easier and faster.

But before you start taking notes or drawing illustrations with your Apple Pencil, you have to pair it with an iPad. Let’s look at the compatibility of the Apple Pencil (1st and 2nd generation) and how to make it work with your iPad.

How to pair Apple Pencil – 1st generation to iPad

The first thing you will notice about this Apple Pencil is a cap on the top. You need to take it off and plug in your Pencil to the lightning connector. Of course, unlock your iPad. The Bluetooth Pairing Request should pop up almost immediately. Tap on it, and start using your Pencil right away!

Once you pair your Apple Pencil with an iPad, it should stay that way. You can pick up your Pencil at any time and start working. On the other hand, your Pencil could disconnect when you go to Airplane Mode.

How to pair Apple Pencil – 2nd generation to iPad

Pairing the 2nd generation Apple Pencil with an iPad is even easier than the 1st generation! First of all, unlock your iPad and then find the side that has the magnetic strip. Take your Apple Pencil and place it there. You will see the Bluetooth Pairing Request on your screen. Tap on Pair.

There are some rare cases when Apple Pencil doesn’t connect to your iPad. In that situation go to Settings>Bluetooth>Apple Pencil

Verdict

That’s why I love Apple products. When you need to connect them to each other, it’s simple. You don’t need to read any manuals. You take your Apple Pencil out of the box, attach it to your iPad, and you’re connected.

We recommend getting Apple Pencil to those users that want to take advantage of all iPad’s features: you will be able to draw, take notes, sketch, add notes to documents you’re editing, and other things. We also recommend getting a screen saver.

FAQ

How to tell the difference between Apple Pencil 1st and 2nd generations?

Even though they might look similar from afar, the two generations of Apple Pencils are very much different. They are both white, but the 1st generation has a glossy finish, while the 2nd generation is matt. The 1st generation Apple Pencil is circular. The 2nd generation is flat on one side.

Furthermore, the 2nd generation Apple Pencil doesn’t have a cap or a lightning connector. This detail alone can help you identify the 1st and 2nd generation of Apple Pencils.

How often should I charge an Apple Pencil?

Apple claims that the Apple Pencil has 12 hours of battery life. There are no rules about charging, and you can do it whenever you feel like you will be using it more than usual. However, make sure you don’t keep your Apple Pencil empty for a very long time. It is not great for the health of the battery.

How do I reset an Apple Pencil?

If you want to connect your Apple Pencil to a different iPad, you should disconnect it from the device it is currently paired with. Go to Settings and open the Bluetooth tab. You will see the list of the connected devices, and your Apple Pencil should be there too.

Tap on the info button next to the Apple Pencil and select Forget This Device. It should do the trick, and you will be able to pair your Apple Pencil to a new device!

How do you check the Apple Pencil battery?

There are two ways to check the battery of your Apple Pencil. If you are using the 1st generation, you can swipe right on your Home screen and see the percentage in a widget on the side. This widget shows you the battery levels of all Apple devices connected to the iPad, so it is useful to have it somewhere visible.

Users who own the 2nd generation Apple Pencil have it easier. As soon as they attach the Pencil to the iPad, a small notification will appear at the top of the screen, with the exact percentage of battery left.

Can Apple Pencil 2 charge without an iPad?

Unfortunately, no. While there are different charging cases on the market right now, the safest and fastest way to charge your Apple Pencil 2 is to keep it docked to your iPad while you are not using it. You will always know where your Pencil is so you won’t misplace it. It is a win-win situation.

Ernests Embutnieks

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I love tech and all about it. I'm interested in finding ways how they can make my life more productive, and I share my knowledge with my blog readers. I'm an iPad Pro, iPhone, MacBook, and Apple Watch user, so I know a thing or two about these devices and try to write helpful content around these topics.