How to Charge Your Apple Pencil: Methods for Each Model

How you charge your Apple Pencil depends on which model you own

Apple makes three different pencil models, and each one charges differently. The Apple Pencil (1st generation) charges by plugging into your iPad's Lightning port. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) charges wirelessly by attaching magnetically to the side of your iPad Pro. The Apple Pencil Pro, released in 2024, also charges magnetically but works only with iPad Pro models from 2022 onward. Knowing which model you have matters because you cannot use a charger meant for one model on another.

You can find your model by looking at the pencil itself or checking your iPad's settings. On the pencil, look for text printed near the bottom. In Settings, go to Bluetooth and find your pencil in the list — it will show the model name. Once you know which one you have, the charging process takes just a few minutes.

Key Takeaways

Apple Pencil 1st generation plugs directly into your iPad's Lightning port and takes about 15 minutes to charge fully.
Apple Pencil 2nd generation and Apple Pencil Pro charge wirelessly by snapping magnetically to the side of compatible iPad Pro models.
You cannot charge an older Apple Pencil model with a newer iPad, or vice versa, because the charging methods are not compatible.
Magnetic charging keeps your pencil paired and ready to use without needing a separate cable or dock.

Charging the Apple Pencil 1st generation with a Lightning cable

The 1st generation Apple Pencil has a removable cap at the top that hides a Lightning connector. To charge it, unscrew or pull off this cap and plug the connector directly into your iPad's Lightning port — the same port you use to charge the iPad itself. The pencil will begin charging when ready and does not need to be paired first.

A full charge takes about 15 minutes and gives you roughly 12 hours of use. While it charges, your iPad may ask if you want to pair the pencil — you can do this now or later. The pencil will stay charged for weeks if you are not using it actively, but the battery will drain slowly over time if it sits unused for months.

This charging method works with iPad Air 2, iPad mini 4, and all iPad Pro models from 2015 to 2017. If your iPad does not have a Lightning port (meaning it has USB-C instead), this pencil will not work with it at all.

Charging the Apple Pencil 2nd generation magnetically

The 2nd generation Apple Pencil charges by attaching to the magnetic strip on the side of your iPad Pro. straightforward hold the pencil near the edge of the iPad — it will snap into place automatically. The pencil charges while attached and does not need to be plugged in anywhere. You will see a small lightning bolt icon on your iPad screen to confirm charging has started.

A full charge takes about 15 minutes and provides roughly 12 hours of use. The pencil stays paired to your iPad while it is attached, so you can pick it up and start drawing when ready after charging. If you leave it attached when you are not using it, the battery will stay topped up because the iPad keeps it charged automatically.

This pencil works with iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation and later), iPad Pro 10.5-inch, and iPad Air (3rd generation and later). It does not work with the original iPad Pro 12.9-inch or with any iPad that has a Lightning port instead of USB-C.

Charging the Apple Pencil Pro magnetically

The Apple Pencil Pro charges the same way as the 2nd generation model — by snapping magnetically to the side of your iPad Pro. Attach it to the magnetic strip and it begins charging automatically. You will see the charging status on your iPad screen. A full charge takes about 15 minutes and lasts roughly 12 hours of active use.

The Pro model works only with iPad Pro 11-inch (7th generation and later) and iPad Pro 12.9-inch (7th generation and later). It will not attach to older iPad Pro models or to any iPad Air, even if those devices have USB-C ports. If you try to use it with an incompatible iPad, it straightforward will not pair.

What to do if your Apple Pencil will not charge

If your pencil is not charging, start by checking that it is actually paired to your iPad. Go to Settings, then Bluetooth, and look for your pencil in the list. If it is not there, pair it first — for the 1st generation, plug it in; for the 2nd generation or Pro, attach it magnetically and wait a few seconds.

For the 1st generation pencil, make sure the Lightning connector is clean and dry. Wipe both the connector on the pencil and the Lightning port on your iPad with a soft, dry cloth. If the port is wet or has debris inside, let it dry completely before trying again. Do not use water or liquid cleaners on the port.

For the 2nd generation or Pro, check that the magnetic strip on your iPad is not damaged or covered. If you use a case, make sure it does not block the magnetic area where the pencil attaches. Try restarting your iPad by holding the power button and swiping to power off, then turning it back on. If the pencil still will not charge after these steps, the battery may have failed and you may need to contact Apple Support.

How to check your Apple Pencil battery level

You can see how much battery your pencil has left in two places. On your iPad, swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center and look for the battery percentage next to your pencil's name. Alternatively, go to Settings, then Bluetooth, find your pencil in the list, and the battery percentage appears next to it.

If your pencil battery is very low, you will see a low-battery notification on your iPad screen. Charge it right away to avoid it shutting off in the middle of your work. The 1st generation pencil will stop responding if the battery reaches zero, while the 2nd generation and Pro will straightforward disconnect from your iPad.

Tips for keeping your Apple Pencil battery healthy

Charge your pencil regularly rather than waiting until the battery is completely dead. Lithium batteries, which all Apple Pencils use, last longer if you keep them between 20 and 80 percent charged most of the time. For the 2nd generation and Pro, leaving the pencil attached to your iPad when you are not using it is fine — the iPad will not overcharge it.

Keep your pencil at room temperature while charging. Do not charge it in direct sunlight, in a hot car, or near a heat source. Extreme heat damages the battery and can shorten its lifespan. If you store your pencil for more than a few weeks, charge it to about 50 percent before putting it away, then charge it again before using it.

If you use your pencil every day, expect the battery to hold less charge after two to three years. This is normal wear for rechargeable batteries. When the battery no longer holds a useful charge, you can contact Apple to discuss repair or replacement options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge my Apple Pencil with a regular USB cable?

No. The 1st generation requires a Lightning connector, which only works with Apple's Lightning port. The 2nd generation and Pro charge only magnetically and cannot use any cable. You cannot adapt or modify the charging method.

What happens if I charge the wrong Apple Pencil model with the wrong iPad?

The pencil straightforward will not charge or pair. The 1st generation pencil has a Lightning connector that does not fit USB-C ports. The 2nd generation and Pro will not attach magnetically to older iPad models. Trying to force them can damage the pencil or iPad.

Does my Apple Pencil charge faster if I use a higher-wattage charger?

No. The 1st generation charges at a fixed rate regardless of which power adapter you use — it takes about 15 minutes either way. The 2nd generation and Pro charge at the same speed whether your iPad is plugged in or not, because the iPad controls the charging rate.

Can I use my Apple Pencil while it is charging?

Yes, but only with the 2nd generation and Pro models. You can draw while the pencil is attached magnetically to your iPad. With the 1st generation, you cannot use the pencil while it is plugged into the Lightning port because the connector blocks the tip.

How long does an Apple Pencil battery last before it needs to be replaced?

Most Apple Pencil batteries last two to three years with daily use before they stop holding a full charge. The exact lifespan depends on how often you charge it and the temperature where you store it. When the battery fails, contact Apple Support to discuss repair or replacement.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.