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10 Best Apple Pencil Alternatives 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Stylus Pen for iPad 6th-11th Generation-2X Fast Charge Active Pencil Compatible with 2018-2025 Apple iPad Pro 11"/12.9"/M4, iPad Air 3/4/5/M2/M3,iPad mini 5/6 Gen-White

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,403
Compatibility
Battery Life
Additional Features

Most important from
93863 reviews

Compatibility
Super easy to set up, very responsive, and does everything needed without pressure sensitivity being an issue.
Battery Life
An excellent, responsive, and affordable alternative to the Apple Pencil with good battery life and no connectivity issues.
Additional Features
The touch switch feature is convenient but can lead to accidental turn-offs during use.

This stylus pen by JAMJAKE is designed for a wide range of iPad models from 2018 to 2024, making it highly versatile for users with various iPad generations. It is not compatible with older models before 2018, which may be a limitation if you own those devices. The 1.5mm pen tip offers precision and smoothness, ensuring fine and accurate interaction without lag, which is great for detailed work. The palm rejection feature allows you to rest your hand on the screen while writing, adding to the natural feel and control, especially useful for drawing or note-taking.

However, it lacks pressure sensitivity, which means it may not be the best choice for professional artists who need that feature for varying line thicknesses and shading techniques. The touch switch and fast charging feature are convenient; a short charge of 5-20 minutes provides 8-10 hours of use, though it requires a specific power adapter. The battery life is decent, with a standby time of 10 hours, but it is not the longest-lasting option available.

The absence of a pen cap or charging port cover could be a drawback for maintaining the pen's durability over time. The pen’s tip is easy to replace, which is a plus for long-term use. Given its user-friendly features and broad compatibility, this stylus is well-suited for students, casual artists, and general iPad users looking for a reliable and affordable alternative to the Apple Pencil.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,403
Compatibility
Battery Life
Additional Features

Most important from
93863 reviews

Compatibility
Super easy to set up, very responsive, and does everything needed without pressure sensitivity being an issue.
Battery Life
An excellent, responsive, and affordable alternative to the Apple Pencil with good battery life and no connectivity issues.
Additional Features
The touch switch feature is convenient but can lead to accidental turn-offs during use.
#2

iPad Pencil 2nd Generation with Magnetic Wireless Fast Charging, Same as Apple Pencil 2nd Generation, Stylus Pen Work for iPad Pro 11 in 1/2/3/4, iPad Pro 12.9in 3/4/5/6, iPad Air 4/5, iPad mini 6

Rating
9.4
Compatibility
Pressure Sensitivity
Tilt Sensitivity

Most important from
2624 reviews

Compatibility
Strong compatibility across multiple iPad models ensures versatile use without connection issues.
Pressure Sensitivity
The stylus delivers a smooth and responsive writing experience with no noticeable lag, closely mimicking the feel of writing on paper.
Tilt Sensitivity
Tilt sensitivity and palm rejection function flawlessly, enhancing precision for note-taking and drawing.
Battery Life
Magnetic wireless charging is highly convenient and works seamlessly, making it easy to keep the stylus powered throughout the day.
Palm Rejection
Tilt sensitivity and palm rejection function flawlessly, enhancing precision for note-taking and drawing.
Additional Features
Shortcut key functions via Bluetooth add real value by enabling quick access to home screen, app switching, and screenshots.

This iPad Pencil 2nd Generation alternative offers strong compatibility with a wide range of iPad models, including iPad Pro (11 and 12.9 inch versions), iPad Air (4th and 5th gen), and iPad Mini 6. It supports Bluetooth connection and magnetic wireless charging, similar to the original Apple Pencil, making charging easy and convenient. The battery life provides up to 9 hours of use after a quick 1.5-hour charge, which should cover typical daily tasks without frequent recharging.

The stylus features a fine 1.2mm tip that allows for precise drawing and writing, paired with tilt sensitivity and palm rejection to help create natural strokes while resting your hand on the screen. These qualities make it suitable for note-taking, sketching, and general creativity on supported iPads. Additionally, it includes shortcut key functions via Bluetooth, such as quick access to the home screen, app switching, and screenshot captures, which can improve workflow.

This stylus works only with the specified iPad models and isn’t compatible with iPhones, Android devices, or older iPads. While it closely mimics the Apple Pencil’s features, it may not perfectly match the original’s responsiveness or build quality, since it’s a third-party product made of plastic. Some users might notice subtle differences in pressure sensitivity or lag. This stylus serves as a solid budget-friendly alternative for those using compatible iPads who want essential Apple Pencil-like features, including tilt control, palm rejection, and convenient charging, with the bonus of shortcut keys. It may not fully replace the official Apple Pencil for professional artists or heavy users but offers excellent value for everyday note-taking and casual drawing.

Rating
9.4
Compatibility
Pressure Sensitivity
Tilt Sensitivity

Most important from
2624 reviews

Compatibility
Strong compatibility across multiple iPad models ensures versatile use without connection issues.
Pressure Sensitivity
The stylus delivers a smooth and responsive writing experience with no noticeable lag, closely mimicking the feel of writing on paper.
Tilt Sensitivity
Tilt sensitivity and palm rejection function flawlessly, enhancing precision for note-taking and drawing.
Battery Life
Magnetic wireless charging is highly convenient and works seamlessly, making it easy to keep the stylus powered throughout the day.
Palm Rejection
Tilt sensitivity and palm rejection function flawlessly, enhancing precision for note-taking and drawing.
Additional Features
Shortcut key functions via Bluetooth add real value by enabling quick access to home screen, app switching, and screenshots.
#3

Pencil for Apple iPad A16 10th Generation, Fast Charge Stylus Pen for 2025-2018 iPad A16/11-6th Gen, Air 11"/13" M3/M2/5th-3rd, Pro 13"/11"/M4/12.9", Mini A17 Pro/6/5th Palm Rejection Tilt Sensitivity

Rating
9.1
Compatibility
Pressure Sensitivity
Tilt Sensitivity

Most important from
954 reviews

Compatibility
Setup is incredibly simple with instant connection to compatible iPads, enhancing overall user experience.
Pressure Sensitivity
The stylus delivers impressive performance with virtually no lag, making writing and drawing feel fluid and natural.
Tilt Sensitivity
Palm rejection and tilt sensitivity work flawlessly, allowing natural hand placement and varied line thickness just like a real pencil.
Battery Life
Fast charging gets you back to work quickly, fully charging in about 15 minutes for extended use.
Palm Rejection
Palm rejection and tilt sensitivity work flawlessly, allowing natural hand placement and varied line thickness just like a real pencil.
Tip Material and Size
Extra tips included add value and ensure the stylus remains functional over time.
Additional Features
Magnetic attachment offers convenient storage, keeping the stylus easily accessible without clutter.

This stylus is designed specifically for newer iPads from 2018 up to 2025 models, including various iPad Air, Pro, Mini, and standard versions, making it a versatile choice if you own one of these devices. It supports tilt sensitivity, which lets you draw lines with varying thickness depending on the angle you hold the pen, a handy feature for artists or note-takers who want more control over their strokes. Palm rejection is included, so you can comfortably rest your hand on the screen while writing or drawing without worrying about accidental marks, which enhances usability during longer sessions.

The pen offers a fast charging capability via a Type-C port, fully charging in about 15 minutes and providing up to 9 hours of use, which means less downtime and more productivity. It also magnetically attaches to compatible iPads for easy storage, like Apple’s own Pencil, but it doesn’t support magnetic charging, so you’ll need to plug it in to charge.

Made from aluminum, the stylus feels sturdy and lightweight (just under 3 ounces), which should be comfortable for extended use. It comes with one rechargeable lithium polymer battery included. The stylus requires manual charging and doesn’t support the magnetic charging feature found in Apple’s official Pencil, which could be less convenient for some users. Nevertheless, with broad compatibility and strong customer approval, this stylus serves as a solid alternative to the Apple Pencil for most casual users, students, or creatives looking for good features without the official Apple price tag.

Rating
9.1
Compatibility
Pressure Sensitivity
Tilt Sensitivity

Most important from
954 reviews

Compatibility
Setup is incredibly simple with instant connection to compatible iPads, enhancing overall user experience.
Pressure Sensitivity
The stylus delivers impressive performance with virtually no lag, making writing and drawing feel fluid and natural.
Tilt Sensitivity
Palm rejection and tilt sensitivity work flawlessly, allowing natural hand placement and varied line thickness just like a real pencil.
Battery Life
Fast charging gets you back to work quickly, fully charging in about 15 minutes for extended use.
Palm Rejection
Palm rejection and tilt sensitivity work flawlessly, allowing natural hand placement and varied line thickness just like a real pencil.
Tip Material and Size
Extra tips included add value and ensure the stylus remains functional over time.
Additional Features
Magnetic attachment offers convenient storage, keeping the stylus easily accessible without clutter.

Buying Guide for the Best Apple Pencil Alternatives

Choosing an alternative to the Apple Pencil involves understanding your needs and preferences for a stylus. Whether you're an artist, a student, or a professional, the right stylus can enhance your productivity and creativity. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting the best stylus for you.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the stylus works with your device. This is crucial because not all styluses are compatible with all tablets or smartphones. Some styluses are designed specifically for certain brands or models, while others are more universal. To pick the right one, check if the stylus is compatible with your device. If you have an iPad, ensure the stylus works with iOS. If you have an Android tablet, look for styluses that support Android.
Pressure SensitivityPressure sensitivity measures how well the stylus can detect different levels of pressure applied to the screen. This is important for artists and designers who need precise control over their strokes. Styluses with higher pressure sensitivity can create more detailed and varied lines. If you're an artist, look for a stylus with high pressure sensitivity (e.g., 4096 levels or more). If you're using the stylus for general note-taking, lower pressure sensitivity may suffice.
Tilt SensitivityTilt sensitivity allows the stylus to detect the angle at which it is being used. This feature is particularly useful for shading and creating dynamic strokes in digital art. If you plan to use the stylus for drawing or painting, choose one with good tilt sensitivity. If your primary use is writing or simple sketching, tilt sensitivity may not be as critical.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the stylus can be used before needing a recharge. This is important for uninterrupted use, especially during long sessions of drawing or note-taking. Styluses with longer battery life are more convenient and reliable. If you use the stylus frequently, look for one with extended battery life (e.g., 10 hours or more). If you use it occasionally, shorter battery life may be acceptable.
Palm RejectionPalm rejection technology prevents the screen from registering your hand or palm while using the stylus. This is important for a comfortable and natural writing or drawing experience. If you often rest your hand on the screen while using the stylus, ensure it has good palm rejection capabilities. If you tend to keep your hand off the screen, this feature may be less important.
Tip Material and SizeThe tip material and size affect the feel and precision of the stylus. Tips can be made of rubber, plastic, or other materials, and come in various sizes. Softer tips may provide a smoother writing experience, while harder tips offer more precision. If you need fine control for detailed work, choose a stylus with a smaller, harder tip. For general use, a larger, softer tip may be more comfortable.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can include shortcut buttons, erasers, and customizable settings. These can enhance the functionality and convenience of the stylus. If you need quick access to certain functions or tools, look for a stylus with programmable buttons. If you prefer simplicity, a basic stylus without extra features may be sufficient.

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