Mar 16, 2022

Apple Pencil 1 vs Apple Pencil 2: the Differences

Are you in the market for an Apple Pencil but not sure which one to buy? Look no further! In this blog post, we will compare and contrast the first-generation Pencil and the second. What are the differences between 1 and 2? Are Apple Pencil 1 and 2 tips the same? In this blog, we will give you the answers to these questions. So grab a cup of tea and let's dive into the differences between these two fantastic tools.

DISCLAIMER: Please make sure, before you buy an Apple Pencil, that it is compatible with your iPad.

apple pencil 1 and apple pencil 2

Origin of the pencil

Are you curious about the origins of the Apple Pencil? Let me tell you all about it. The first-generation Apple Pencil was introduced in 2015 alongside the iPad Pro, a device that aimed to bridge the gap between traditional laptops and tablets. The initial idea for this stylus came from Steve Jobs himself who had a vision of creating a tool that would allow people to use an iPad as if they were using a pen and paper.

However, it wasn't until years later that technology caught up with his concept and allowed for such precision on touchscreens. The result is an amazing writing instrument with pressure sensitivity and tilt detection capabilities, giving artists and creators even more control over their work than ever before. And with each successive generation of Apple Pencil improving upon its predecessor, one can only imagine what exciting developments are yet to come!

What are the differences between the two?

Apple Pencil 1 and Apple Pencil 2 are two different types of digital pens made by Apple. The main difference between the two is that the former is designed for use with iPad Pro and the latter with iPad (6th generation) and iPad mini (5th generation). Both pens offer pressure-sensitive drawing and writing, but Apple Pencil 2 is capable of more advanced functions such as angle detection and palm rejection. Let's put the two side by side:

Apple Pencil 1

Pairing and charging via Lightning
Pixel-perfect precision
Tilt and pressure sensitivity
Imperceptible lag
Can't quickly switch between functions by tapping
Wireless connection but wired charging
Less expensive

Compatible with

iPad - 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th** generation ** requires USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter
iPad Air - 3rd generation
iPad mini - 5th generation
iPad Pro 12.9-inch
1st and 2nd generation
iPad Pro 10.5-inch
iPad Pro 9.7-inch

apple pencil 1

Apple Pencil 2

Wireless pairing and charging
Attaches magnetically
Double-tap to change tools
Pixel-perfect precision
Tilt and pressure sensitivity
Imperceptible lag
Free engraving
More expensive

Compatible with

iPad Pro 12.9-inch
3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th generation
iPad Pro 11-inch
1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generation
iPad Air
4th and 5th generation
iPad mini
6th generation

apple pencil 2

Comparison of design and performance: which one is better?

When it comes to design, both the Apple Pencil 1 and 2 are very sleek and stylish. The new model is a bit longer and thinner than the original, but both are still very comfortable to hold. As for performance, both pens offer great pressure sensitivity and accuracy. However, the new Apple Pencil 2 also offers enhanced Palm Rejection technology, which means that you won't have to worry about your hand touching the screen while you're drawing or writing.

Pricing, availability and support comparison

When it comes to pricing, the Apple Pencil is more expensive than the Apple Pencil 2. However, the Apple Pencil 2 does come with a few more features than the original model. In terms of availability, both products are widely available online and in stores. As for support, Apple offers support for both products on its website.

When it comes to Apple Pencil 1 vs 2, there is one thing that is important to remember: as James Jullier, who has more than 300,000 subscribers on YouTube, points out in this video, the difference in Apple Pencil won’t make you a better or worse artist. He says,

“If you’ve not had an iPad and Apple Pencil very long, and the finances are not available to upgrade at this point, you’re not missing out on a huge amount. It [the 2nd gen] is definitely a better Apple Pencil … but your artwork won’t suffer.”

The Verdict

It is not strange that a better product comes out after three years of feedback and development. However, this does not mean that the first generation Apple Pencil is bad. It is still a great tool for artists to create. The second generation Apple Pencil is better, but the first is still good enough. Even the Apple Pencil tips are the same. You can actually take the tip of a first generation Apple Pencil and screw it on the second generation.

Perhaps if you really like the second generation better as a tool than the first, it is a good reason to upgrade. For example, if you don’t like how you have to hold the first generation Apple Pencil, or if you forget to charge it all the time. In such cases, an upgrade will actually improve your output.

However, if you are happy with the way your first generation Apple Pencil works for you, there is no pressing reason to upgrade. Save yourself some money instead of spending big on an upgrade that might only give you marginal gains.

Please let us know what Apple Pencil you use, or will be using after reading this blog. If you have used both Pencils, please tell us what differences you noticed between them.

But, whatever pencil you have, have fun creating!

P.S. If you are looking for something to upgrade your Apple Pencil, make sure to check out our PenTips Lite or PenTips 2! They can help you get more control over your pencil and reduce clacking noises :)