Which Apple Pencil Works with Which Apple Device? A Compatibility Guide
Apple Pencil compatibility depends on the exact iPad model, and iPhone Duo supports only Apple Pencil USB-C. Check the device before buying or reusing one.
This is a compatibility guide for the current Apple Pencil models. It is not an iPhone Duo feature guide and it is not a comparison of every drawing feature. The first job is to make sure the Pencil can pair and charge with the exact device you own.
Apple Pencil generations are not interchangeable. A Pencil can look suitable and still be unable to pair with a newer or older iPad.
Identify the device before buying
On an iPad or iPhone, open Settings, General, About and note the model name. If the name is broad, use the model number to identify the exact generation.
Do not buy from a listing that says only “works with iPad”. Match the precise model and generation.
Apple Pencil Pro
Apple Pencil Pro works with iPad Pro 11-inch and 13-inch models with M4 or M5, iPad Air 11-inch and 13-inch models with M2, M3 or M4, and iPad mini with A17 Pro.
It needs iPadOS 17.5 or later. It is the choice for a compatible current iPad when its advanced drawing controls matter to you.
It does not work with older iPad Pro models that use Apple Pencil second generation.
Apple Pencil USB-C
Apple Pencil USB-C works across a wide range of USB-C iPads, including current iPad Pro and iPad Air models, several earlier USB-C iPad Pro models, iPad Air fourth and fifth generation, iPad A16, iPad tenth generation, iPad mini A17 Pro and iPad mini sixth generation.
Apple’s iPhone Duo specifications also confirm support for Apple Pencil USB-C. That does not extend compatibility to Apple Pencil Pro, first generation or second generation on iPhone Duo.
USB-C is the practical choice for notes, marking up documents and basic drawing when the extra Pro controls are not required.
Apple Pencil second generation
Apple Pencil second generation works with iPad mini sixth generation, iPad Air fourth and fifth generation, iPad Pro 12.9-inch third to sixth generation, and iPad Pro 11-inch first to fourth generation.
These are the older flat-sided iPads that pair and charge magnetically with this Pencil. New M4 and M5 iPad Pro models use Apple Pencil Pro or USB-C instead.
Apple Pencil first generation
Apple Pencil first generation works with iPad mini fifth generation, iPad sixth to ninth generation, iPad Air third generation, iPad Pro 12.9-inch first and second generation, iPad Pro 10.5-inch and iPad Pro 9.7-inch.
It also works with iPad tenth generation and iPad A16 when the USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter is used for pairing and charging.
The adapter requirement is easy to miss, so include it in the cost and day-to-day inconvenience before buying.
Can you reuse an existing Pencil?
Yes, but only if the new device appears on that Pencil’s compatibility list. A magnetic side on the device does not prove the Pencil will pair.
If moving from an older iPad Pro to a current M-series iPad Pro, check carefully. The Pencil model often changes with the iPad generation.
Which one should you choose?
Choose Apple Pencil Pro for a compatible iPad when you value its advanced creative controls. Choose Apple Pencil USB-C for straightforward notes, signatures and markup, or for iPhone Duo. Choose an older Pencil only when it is the model required by the iPad you already own.
If you only need occasional tapping or handwriting in an app, a basic third-party stylus may be enough. It may not provide pressure, pairing or other Apple Pencil features, so check the app’s needs before buying.
Need a hand?
If you are unsure which iPad model you have or whether an existing Pencil can be reused, see Mac and Apple device setup and troubleshooting or contact Your Mac Tech.
