If you wish to create stunning digital designs, jot down points, or use your iPad smoothly, the Apple Pencil is an essential tool. It completely ensures that you have the perfect integration, pressure sensitivity, and a really smooth writing experience. So, if you are thinking about how to charge Apple Pencil, it’s a relatively simple and quick process, regardless of whether you own the 1st generation or 2nd. Let us see how to charge Apple Pencil.
Apple Pencil Compatibility
Before you learn how to charge an Apple Pencil, it is essential to know which iPads are compatible with each generation.
iPads Compatible with Apple Pencil 1st Generation
- iPad- 6th generation or later
- iPad mini -5th generation
- iPad Air-3rd generation
- iPad Pro 12.9b inch-1st and 2nd generations
iPads Compatible with Apple Pencil 2nd Generation
- iPad Mini -6th generation
- iPad Air – 4th generation and later
- iPad Pro 11-inch -1st generation and later
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch -3rd generation and later
iPads Compatible with Apple Pencil USB-C
- iPad Pro 11-inch -1st generation and later
- iPad Air -4th generation and later
- iPad -10th Gen
- iPad Mini -6th generation and later
iPads Compatible with Apple Pencil Pro
- iPad Pro 13-inch (M4)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
- iPad Air 13-inch (M2)
- iPad Air 11-inch (M2)
- iPad mini (A17 Pro)
Charging Instructions for 1st Generation Apple Pencil
=> Method 1
Charging Directly (For iPads Equipped with a Lightning Port)
Keep in mind that you need to remove the cap at the back of the Pencil to charge your Apple Pencil 1st generation via Lightning connector.
After which you just plug the Apple Pencil into your iPad’s Lightning port. Once plugged in, your Pencil will begin to charge, and you can unplug it after 10 minutes or so.
=> Method 2
Charging via USB Power Adapter
Looking to learn how to charge Apple pencil in another method? Simply connect it to a USB power adapter, like your iPhone charger. You will also need the Apple Pencil Charging Adapter, which comes in the box with the Pencil.
Just take away the cap from the Pencil and attach one end of the adapter to the Pencil and the other end to a Lightning cable.
Charging Instructions for the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil and Apple Pencil Pro
Apple Pencil 2nd Generation and Apple Pencil Pro are easy to charge. These models use wireless charging, with no connectors or cables needed. All you need is a compatible iPad.
- Make sure that you enable Bluetooth on your iPad.
- Then, just attach the Apple Pencil to the magnetic connector along the side of your iPad, just below the volume buttons when you have the iPad in landscape orientation.
- There’ll be a little pop-up for a brief second telling you it has started charging along with the current charge level.
It should take around 10 minutes to charge after which you can use it. Perform this every time the battery runs out.
Charging Instructions for Apple Pencil USB-C
Apple is no longer producing Apple Pencils graced with a Lightning port, and if the Apple Pencil Pro isn’t for you, the Apple Pencil USB-C is the perfect solution. As the name suggests, it now incorporates USB-C charging. Here’s how you can charge it:
- Remove the end cap on the Apple Pencil to access the USB-C port.
- Charge your Apple Pencil over USB-C with a USB-C-to-C cable connected to your iPad or a power adapter with a USB-C port.
- Your Apple Pencil USB-C will begin charging.
How to Know the Charging Level of Your Apple Pencil Battery
=> Apple Pencil USB-C and Apple Pencil 1st Generation
- Open Settings on your iPad.
- Tap Apple Pencil from the left sidebar.
- The charge level of your Apple Pencil will be displayed as the first option.
This method is compatible with both the 1st generation Apple Pencil and the USB-C model.
=> Apple Pencil 2nd Generation and Apple Pencil Pro
- Place the Apple Pencil on the iPad’s side to connect it.
- A brief pop-up should appear for a second indicating your current charge level.
- You can continue doing this to recheck the charge level.
=> Tracking Apple Pencil Battery with the Battery Widget
Through the battery widget on your iPad, you can see the battery usage of your Apple Pencil. Here’s how to add it:
- Touch and hold any empty spot on your iPad’s Home Screen until the icons jiggle.
- Click the “+” icon on the top-left corner
- Select Batteries from the list on the left (you might have to use the search bar).
- Choose the widget size you want and tap Add Widget to place it on your Home Screen.
Now with the widget added, you can directly check your Apple Pencil’s battery status along with the charge level of connected devices from your Home Screen.
Tips for Extending Your Apple Pencil’s Battery Life
Keeping your Apple Pencil charged is key to keeping it working properly. Make sure not to let the battery go to zero. Charge it even when you are not using it for a long time. Put it in a cool, dry place to avoid overheating or battery damage. One factor in keeping your Apple Pencil functional is using the recommended charging method based on your Apple Pencil model. These simple measures ensure that your Apple Pencil is ready whenever you need it.
Final Thoughts
Most new Apple users wonder how to charge the Apple Pencil correctly. The 1st, 2nd Generation, USB-C, and Pro models have different charging methods so be sure to know how to charge Apple pencil based on the model. Making sure your Apple Pencil is charged and noting the battery levels helps keep your pencil in top condition.
FAQs
1. Is the Apple Pencil 1 wireless charging?
Apple Pencil 1 does not support wireless charging. You can only charge it by plugging it into the iPad’s Lightning port.
2. How long does Apple last on full charge?
Battery life will vary based on usage. It runs for up to 12 hours with a full charge of continuous use. Well, the battery itself can drain over time, even if it is not in use.
3. Can I charge an Apple Pencil using an iPhone charger?
For 1st Gen, yes. But you need to use the adapter included in the Apple Pencil box to connect it to your iPhone charger.
