Aside from their portability, one of the iPad's main perks for creatives is its ability to connect to a stylus pen. However, with so many different iPad generations and Apple Pencil models, it's not always obvious how to connect your stylus, so we've created this quick, easy guide to help.
While it's typically pretty simple to connect a stylus pen to an iPad, you need to know which model you have (this can be found in the 'About' section in your Settings). If you're the lucky owner of an M4 iPad Pro, connecting an Apple Pencil is a simple snap-and-go affair. Connecting to older models or third-party options is just as simple, so you can typically get to drawing in seconds.
How to connect a stylus pen to iPad: Apple Pencil
How you’ll connect your Apple Pencil depends on which iPad you have (which will, of course, dictate which Apple Pencil you have). If you have either an iPad Pro from 2018 onwards or 2022’s iPad Air 5, you’ll be using an Apple Pencil 2. Older iPads without the flat-edged design will use the Apple Pencil 1. Here’s how to connect them.
Apple Pencil 2 and Apple Pencil Pro
1. Attach your Apple Pencil to the magnetic connector on the side of your iPad. That's it – the Apple Pencil 2 is now paired to your iPad.
Check out our Apple Pencil Pro review if you're considering Apple's newest stylus.
Apple Pencil (USB-C)
1. Make sure iOS is version 17.1 or later by going to iPad settings → General → Software.
2. Slide the end of your Apple Pencil (USB-C) up to open.
3. Insert your USB-C cable into the slot.
4. Attach the other end of the cable to your iPad.
For a deep dive, take a look at our Apple Pencil USB-C guide for all you need to know.
Apple Pencil 1
1. Remove the cap and plug your Apple Pencil into the Lightning connector on your iPad.
2. When you see the Pair button, tap it.
How to connect a stylus pen to iPad: Adonit
While many of Adonit's Apple Pencil alternatives don't use bluetooth, there are a few that do, such as the Touch with PixelPoint, Script, and Touch 4. Here's how to connect them.
Adonit Touch with PixelPoint, Script, and Touch 4
1. Turn on Bluetooth in your iPad’s settings menu
2. Power On Your stylus.
3. Connect your Jot Touch with Pixelpoint to any Jot-Ready App, including Photoshop Sketch, Procreate and many more – check out Adonit's list of recommended apps.
How to connect a stylus pen to iPad: Logitech Crayon
One of the most popular Apple Pencil alternatives is the affordable Logitech Crayon. With Apple-approved palm rejection, it's one of the best third party options out there.
Logitech Crayon
1. Make sure iOS is version 12.2 or above by going to iPad settings → General → Software.
2. Disconnect previously connected digital pencils, such as Apple Pencil.
3. Press Logitech Crayon power button for 1-2 seconds until LED lights green.
Write and draw away!
With lots of third party options available, you may need to consult your stylus pen's manual to find out exactly how to connect it – but if it's a bluetooth model, it's likely to involve a simple pairing process like with the Adonit and Logitech examples above.
Can't decide if you should splash the cash on an Apple Pencil? Check out our Apple Pencil vs Logitech Crayon guide to see which option suits you. For more helpful tips, take a look at our guide on how to charge an Apple Pencil.
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