Which iPads support the Apple Pencil? Every iPad model currently sold by Apple works with an Apple Pencil, but some only support the first-generation Apple Pencil and some only support the second-generation Apple Pencil. Then there are also older models that support the Apple accessory.
The entry-level 10th-generation iPad is the only one Apple still sells that works with the first-generation Apple Pencil. The iPad Air 5, iPad mini 6 and iPad Pro 2021 versions all work with the second generation Apple Pencil.
Which iPads support the first generation Apple Pencil?
These are the iPads that support the first Apple Pencil:
- iPad mini (5th generation)
- iPad (6th, 7th, 8th and 9th generation)
- iPad (10th generation)*
- iPad Air (3rd generation)
- 12.9-inch iPad Pro (1st and 2nd generation)
- iPad Pro 10.5 inch
- 9.7 inch iPad Pro
The first-generation Apple Pencil has a cap that hides a Lightning connector, which serves for both quick pairing and charging. The iPad 10 only has a USB-C port and this forces users to use an adapter to be able to recharge the first generation Apple Pencil.
Which iPads support the second generation Apple Pencil?
These are the iPads that support Apple Pencil 2:
- iPad mini (6th generation)
- iPad Air (4th generation and later)
- 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd generation and later)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later)
The second generation Apple Pencil is one-piece construction with the exception of the detachable tip. There is no cap to remove and no Lightning connector. Instead, the Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to one side of the iPad for inductive charging and therefore doesn’t require an adapter of any kind.
