Apple Pencil and Styluses: Notes, Puzzles, and Coloring
Last verified: August 2026
A pencil turns a tablet into a notepad, a crossword book, and a coloring book all at once. Here's which Apple Pencil (or cheaper stylus) fits your iPad, and delightful ways to use it.
About the Apple Pencil and styluses
Apple sells two current pencils: the Apple Pencil (USB-C) at $79, which works with most recent USB-C iPads, and the fancier Apple Pencil Pro at $129, which adds pressure and extra tricks but only works with the newest iPad Air, Pro, and mini models. The key is to check compatibility for your exact iPad before buying — Apple's website has a simple checker.
You don't have to buy an Apple Pencil at all. Inexpensive styluses (often $15–$30) work fine for tapping, writing notes, doing crosswords, and coloring. They lack the pressure sensitivity artists want, but for everyday use they're perfectly good and easy on the wallet.
For Android and Fire tablets, Samsung's higher-end tablets include an ‘S Pen,' and basic styluses work on the rest. Whatever you use, a pencil makes a tablet feel natural for anyone who grew up with pen and paper.
When to skip the DIY and just call: Picking the right pencil for your exact iPad · Pairing and charging it · Setting up note, puzzle, and coloring apps.
Common Questions
1 Which Apple Pencil works with my iPad?
- Check Apple's compatibility page (search ‘Apple Pencil compatibility') and match your iPad model.
- The Apple Pencil (USB-C) at $79 works with most recent USB-C iPads and is the value pick.
- The Apple Pencil Pro at $129 works only with the latest Air, Pro, and mini — pick it if you want pressure sensitivity.
- If unsure, bring your iPad's model info and I'll help you match it.
2 How do I pair and charge it?
- The Apple Pencil (USB-C) charges with a USB-C cable and pairs when connected.
- The Apple Pencil Pro snaps magnetically to the side of a compatible iPad and charges there wirelessly.
- Once paired, it just works in any app that accepts a pencil.
- Keep it charged and it's always ready when inspiration strikes.
3 Do I need Apple's pencil or will a cheap stylus do?
- For notes, tapping, crosswords, and coloring, a basic $15–$30 stylus is plenty.
- Choose an Apple Pencil if you want smooth handwriting, pressure for drawing, or the tidiest experience.
- Cheaper styluses don't need charging or pairing — they just work like a fingertip.
- Try a cheap one first; upgrade only if you find yourself wanting more.
4 What are the best everyday uses?
- Handwrite notes and lists in the Notes app — you can even search your handwriting on an iPad.
- Do crosswords, sudoku, and puzzle books in their apps.
- Relax with a coloring-book app — a genuinely soothing pastime.
- Sign documents and mark up PDFs without printing.
5 What about Android and Fire tablets?
- Samsung's premium tablets include an S Pen that works much like an Apple Pencil.
- For other Android and Fire tablets, an inexpensive universal stylus works for notes and taps.
- Look for a fine-tip stylus for neat handwriting.
- The same fun uses apply — notes, puzzles, and coloring.
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