Apple Pencil 2 charges wirelessly by attaching magnetically to the side of your iPad

The Apple Pencil 2 does not use a cable or charging port. Instead, it has a flat edge that holds a magnet. When you attach the pencil to the magnetic strip on the side of your iPad Pro, iPad Air, or iPad (depending on your model), charging begins automatically. The pencil stays in place while it charges and while you carry it around.

A full charge takes about 15 minutes and gives you roughly 12 hours of use. You do not need to remove the pencil to use your iPad — you can charge and work at the same time, though this is slower than letting it charge while the iPad is idle.

Key Takeaways

  • Attach the Apple Pencil 2 to the magnetic strip on the side of your iPad to charge it wirelessly.
  • A full charge takes about 15 minutes; a two-minute charge gives you roughly 30 minutes of use.
  • The pencil will not charge if it is not making full contact with the magnetic strip, so check that it is seated flush against the iPad.
  • If your pencil stops charging, restart your iPad and check that the magnetic connector on both the pencil and iPad is clean and free of dust or debris.

Check that the pencil is seated flush against the magnetic strip

The Apple Pencil 2 must make full contact with the magnet to charge. Attach it to the side of your iPad so that the flat edge of the pencil aligns with the magnetic strip. You should feel a slight pull as the magnet holds it in place. If the pencil feels loose or sits at an angle, it is not charging.

If the pencil keeps sliding down or falling off, the magnetic strip may be dirty. Wipe both the flat edge of the pencil and the magnetic strip on your iPad with a soft, dry cloth. Dust or fingerprints can weaken the magnetic connection.

Verify charging has started by checking your iPad screen

When you attach the Apple Pencil 2 to your iPad, a small battery icon appears on the screen near the top left corner. This icon shows the current charge level as a percentage. If you do not see this icon within a few seconds of attaching the pencil, the connection is not working.

The battery icon stays visible for a few seconds, then disappears. You can swipe down from the top of your iPad to open the Control Center and check the battery level of your Apple Pencil 2 at any time. Look for the Apple Pencil battery indicator in the Control Center menu.

Understand the difference between a quick charge and a full charge

You do not always need to wait for a full charge. A two-minute charge gives you about 30 minutes of use, which is enough for most tasks. A 15-minute charge gives you a full battery and roughly 12 hours of use. If your pencil dies during work, even a one-minute charge will let you continue for a short time.

This means you can keep your pencil topped up throughout the day by attaching it to your iPad between tasks, rather than waiting for a complete charge. Many people charge their pencil overnight or during breaks to maintain a full battery.

Troubleshoot if your Apple Pencil 2 will not charge

If the battery icon does not appear when you attach the pencil, first check that the flat edge is making full contact with the magnetic strip. Reposition the pencil so it sits flush against the side of your iPad. If it still does not charge, restart your iPad by holding down the power button and sliding to power off, then turning it back on.

Next, clean both the flat edge of the pencil and the magnetic strip on your iPad with a soft, dry cloth. Lint, dust, or dried fingerprints can block the magnetic connection. If the pencil still will not charge after cleaning and restarting, try attaching it to a different iPad if you have access to one. This tells you whether the problem is with the pencil or with your iPad's magnetic strip.

Know which iPad models work with Apple Pencil 2

The Apple Pencil 2 works with iPad Pro (all sizes from 2018 and later), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), and iPad (7th generation and later). Older iPad models use the original Apple Pencil, which charges differently — it plugs into the iPad's Lightning port or USB-C port depending on the model.

If you are not sure which iPad you have, go to Settings, then General, then About. Look for the model name. If your iPad is not listed above, it either uses the original Apple Pencil or does not support an Apple Pencil at all.

Store your Apple Pencil 2 attached to your iPad for daily use

Many people keep their Apple Pencil 2 attached to their iPad throughout the day. The pencil charges whenever it is attached, so this keeps the battery topped up without any extra effort. The magnet is strong enough that the pencil will not fall off during normal use or when carrying your iPad in a bag.

If you store your pencil separately from your iPad for long periods — more than a few weeks — attach it to your iPad and let it charge fully before storing it. A completely drained battery can lose its ability to hold a charge if left unused for months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge my Apple Pencil 2 with a cable?

No. The Apple Pencil 2 only charges wirelessly through the magnetic strip on your iPad. There is no cable or charging port. If you need to charge your pencil, you must attach it to a compatible iPad.

What if I lose the Apple Pencil 2 or the magnet stops working?

If the magnet on your iPad stops working, you will need to have the iPad repaired by Apple or an authorized service provider. If your pencil is lost or damaged, you can buy a replacement Apple Pencil 2 from Apple or other retailers. Prices vary, but a new pencil typically costs between $100 and $130.

Does the Apple Pencil 2 charge faster if I use a faster iPad charger?

No. The charging speed of the Apple Pencil 2 is controlled by the iPad, not by the power adapter. Using a faster charger for your iPad will not make the pencil charge any quicker. The pencil always takes about 15 minutes for a full charge when attached to any compatible iPad.

Can I charge my Apple Pencil 2 while using my iPad?

Yes, but charging is slower. You can use your iPad normally while the pencil is attached and charging. However, the pencil charges faster when your iPad is idle or locked. If you need a quick charge, attach the pencil and let your iPad sit for a few minutes without using it.