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Many Apple Pencil 2 users would have looked at last week’s Apple Pencil USB-C announcement and thought, like the rest of us, why? Why update what is already a pretty much perfect bit of tech?
Well, it turned out Apple had their eyes on affordability by removing some features like pressure sensitivity and sorting out the Apple Pencil’s iPad compatibility issues by adding a USB-C charging port.
Although Apple meant well, the Apple Pencil 3’s main impact has been to add confusion to a settled lineup.
Users now have more options, which is always a good thing…but it also means making a definitive choice is made harder.
In this article, we will compare these two stylus options to help you make an informed decision.
Compatibility: Which iPad Models Work with Apple Pencil USB-C?
One of the key factors to consider when choosing between the Apple Pencil USB-C and the Apple Pencil 2 is compatibility. Both stylus options are designed to work with specific iPad models.
The Apple Pencil 2 is compatible with the following iPads:
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th generation)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (all models)
- iPad Air (4th and 5th generation)
- iPad Mini (6th generation)
On the other hand, the Apple Pencil USB-C works with the following iPads:
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th generation)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (all models)
- iPad Air (4th and 5th generation)
- iPad Mini (6th generation)
- iPad (10th generation)
It’s worth noting that the 10th generation iPad is the only USB-C iPad that is not compatible with the Apple Pencil 2. Instead, it requires an adapter to pair and charge the Apple Pencil 1.
This has been a long-standing issue and is one of the main reasons that the Apple Pencil 3 has been created; so USB-C iPad users can charge their Apple Pencil’s without needing an adapter.
Design: Similarities and Differences
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That’s the attitude Apple has taken towards the design of the Apple Pencil USB-C. Both the Apple Pencil USB-C and the Apple Pencil 2 feature a sleek, matte finish, with a flat top and a singular flat edge.
This means the Apple Pencil remains annoyingly on the wrong side of being not-grippy-enough. Whilst there aren’t huge issues with holding Apple Pens, they could be more ergonomic in terms of having more edges. Perhaps that’s one for future generations.
There are some notable differences as well.
The Apple Pencil USB-C is slightly shorter than the Apple Pencil 2 and has a retractable top that reveals a USB-C port. This design eliminates the need for the cap used on the other non-wireless Apple Pencil 1, which is honestly a great change. That cap gets lost more than you’d think! In contrast, the Apple Pencil 2 does not have any ports or caps.
Another design difference worth mentioning is that the Apple Pencil 2 offers free engraving, allowing users to personalize their stylus. This feature is not available for the Apple Pencil USB-C.
Features: What Sets Them Apart?
This is where you’ll find your deal breakers and makers with the Apple Pencil USB-C and Apple Pencil 2. The things you should actually care about. And there are some big differences.
Simply put, the Apple Pencil 2 has a better and more comprehensive set of features compared to the USB-C. But, that doesn’t necessarily you need all of them.
First off, the Apple Pencil 2 is pressure-sensitive, allowing for precise control over line thickness and opacity. Press harder, you get thicker lines. This makes it virtually essential for artists and designers who require fine-grained control.
Additionally, the Apple Pencil 2 features double-tap support, enabling users to quickly switch between tools with a simple tap on the stylus. This is more of a nice-to-have than a choice-defining feature.
In contrast, the Apple Pencil USB-C does not have pressure sensitivity or double-tap support. However, it still offers basic features such as low latency, tilt sensitivity for shading, and precise writing and drawing which means it remains an excellent stylus.
Both stylus options support the hover feature, which allows users to hover the pencil above the iPad screen to see the exact location of the cursor. This can be particularly useful for precise drawing and editing.
In short, if you want to create art or draw with your Apple Pencil, you need an Apple Pencil 2. But for anyone else, take the cheaper Apple Pencil USB-C and run!
Charging: Wireless vs Cable
Charging options also differ between the Apple Pencil USB-C and the Apple Pencil 2.
The Apple Pencil 2 charges wirelessly by attaching magnetically to the iPad. Whilst this sounds like a fairly innocuous feature, it is actually incredibly useful. For one, it stops your Apple Pencil from rolling off of table edges. And secondly, it means you don’t need to remember to charge it.
On the other hand, the Apple Pencil USB-C requires a physical connection for charging. Users need to remove the end cap and connect the stylus to the iPad using a USB-C to USB-C cable (not included in the box). However, it still magnetically attaches to the side of your iPad.
Price: Which Stylus Offers Better Value?
Now, the biggie. What we all are ultimately guided by. Price. And this is a real feather in the cap of the Apple Pencil USB-C.
The Apple Pencil USB-C is priced at $79 (£65). In comparison, the Apple Pencil 2 is priced at a comparably whopping $129 (106).
This is huge. For Apple to actually offer something as a budget option is huge. Usually, if you want Apple, you pay a premium. And, you still do to an extent. The Benks Pen, for example, has pressure sensitivity but costs a mere $44 (£37).
But still, the USB-C offers you Apple’s quality for a much friendlier price.
Should you buy the Apple Pencil USB-C?
Choosing between the Apple Pencil USB-C and the Apple Pencil 2 is actually an easy decision to make. Ultimately, it depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you own an iPad model that is compatible with both stylus options and require advanced features like pressure sensitivity and double-tap support, the Apple Pencil 2 is clearly the one for you. Its wireless charging and pairing, along with its precision and versatility, make it a top-tier stylus.
On the other hand, if you are on a tighter budget or don’t need the advanced features of the Apple Pencil 2, the Apple Pencil USB-C offers a more affordable option without compromising on basic stylus functionality.
Ultimately, both stylus options provide excellent performance and enhance the iPad experience. Now, it’s just down to you to decide.
Let us know if you’ll be picking up the Apple Pencil USB-C when it drops in the comments below!
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