Apple’s latest addition to its stylus range, priced at $79, presents a more cost-effective alternative to the existing Apple Pencil (1st and 2nd generations). Sporting a matte finish similar to its 2nd-generation counterpart, the new Apple Pencil also includes an indented edge, elevating the ergonomic feel of the device.
However, a distinguishing feature of this Apple Pencil iteration is the absence of magnetic wireless charging and pairing capabilities. Instead, users will find a concealed USB-C port under the cap, designated for charging and pairing. Although the stylus can magnetically latch onto an iPad’s side, this does not facilitate either charging or pairing.
The Apple Pencil (USB-C) boasts:
- Pixel-perfect precision: Ensuring accurate writing, sketching, and drawing
- Low latency: Offering a seamless, pencil-on-paper experience
- Tilt sensitivity: Providing capabilities for shading and other artistic effects
- Wireless pairing and charging: Exclusive to the Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
On the compatibility front, the Apple Pencil (USB-C) pairs with all iPad versions that have a USB-C port. This encompasses a wide range of iPad models, from the 10th generation iPad and iPad mini (6th generation) to the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation).
To provide clarity on the current offerings:
- Apple Pencil (1st generation) is priced at $99
- The new Apple Pencil (USB-C) is available for $79
- Apple Pencil (2nd generation) comes in at $129
This new stylus, primarily designed for the base model iPad, eliminates the need for adapters.
Before this, the basic iPad model was only attuned to the Apple Pencil (1st generation), which needed a Lightning-to-USB-C dongle due to its Lightning port charging mechanism.