Apple Pencil Pro vs. Apple Pencil 2: Which model you should buy for your iPad

Adam Breeden/ZDNET

During its "Let Loose" event earlier this year, Apple unveiled its newest iPad lineup, which included the M4 iPad Pro and a 13-inch iPad Air, as well as the next generation of Apple's handy stylus: the Apple Pencil Pro. 

Also: I replaced my MacBook with an M4 iPad Pro and was less bothered than I expected

Apple debuted the first Apple Pencil in 2015, the Apple Pencil 2nd Gen in 2018, and the USB-C Apple Pencil in November 2023. Each generation has brought with it new innovations, and this release is no different. The Apple Pencil Pro offers several upgraded features designed in tandem with the iPad Pro models, including a squeeze function to switch between tools, colors, and line weights; a gyroscope barrel roll for precise brush and pen control; and custom haptic feedback that you can feel via a pulse. 

Plus, if you're always misplacing your stylus, the Apple Pencil Pro features Apple's native Find My technology.

The Apple Pencil Pro is available for purchase, costing $129 on the tech giant's online storefront. Should you splurge on Apple's stylus? Let's compare the Apple Pencil Pro and the previous generation Apple Pencil and step through our buying advice. 

Specifications

You should buy the Apple Pencil Pro if...

Adam Breeden/ZDNET

1. You need the enhanced functionality 

Are you a creator or developer who uses your iPad for advanced photography, videography, graphic design, and editing? The Apple Pencil Pro is packed with upgrades designed to enhance and functionally upgrade your creative experience, especially when used with the new iPad Pro. 

The Pencil Pro steps up the low latency and pixel-perfection of the Apple Pencil (2nd Gen). It expands its range of features to include a squeeze gesture for quick tool, color, and other changes; a gyroscope for precise control of pens and brush tools with a simple twist; and custom haptic feedback that you can feel via a pulse. Plus, Apple Pencil hover lets you know exactly where your Apple Pencil will touch down on your display for greater precision. 

Also: How to get your Apple devices ready for the last big OS update of 2024

The Pencil Pro steps up the low latency and pixel-perfection of the Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) by adding features like the squeeze gesture and custom haptic feedback. Plus, the Apple Pencil hover lets you know exactly where the tip will touch down on your display for greater precision. 

In contrast, Apple Pencil 2 has a double-tap gesture that lets users switch tools but no "squeeze" gesture support. Also, it supports Apple Pencil hover only when used with the new iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation) and iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation). If you plan to upgrade your iPad for creative work, an upgrade to the new Apple Pencil Pro makes sense. 

2. You misplace your tech gear 

If you frequently misplace your tech and -- specifically -- your iPad accessories, the Apple Pencil Pro incorporates Apple's native Find My technology, which means you'll be able to track your stylus easily. 

The Pro is the only stylus in Apple's lineup to offer this feature. For individuals who misplace their tech often, it's truly a game changer. 

3. You plan to buy the newest iPads

The Apple Pencil Pro was designed in conjunction with the latest iPad Pro and software updates. If you're making the jump to either an M2 iPad Air or an M4 iPad Pro, buying the Apple Pencil Pro makes sense since its advanced features leverage the chip and AI technology incorporated into the tablets. If you're looking to get the most productivity, functionality, and value out of your new iPad, we think it's wise to invest in a tool designed to maximize its capabilities. 

You should buy the Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) if...

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1. You want to save some cash 

The Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) usually retails for $129, but we see big discounts during sale periods like Presidents' Day and Cyber Week. At the time of this writing, the stylus is on sale for $80 on Amazon.

Also: The best iPad stylus you can buy: Expert tested

If you're looking for a wallet-friendly pick, the 2nd-Gen Pencil offers advanced features such as low latency, tilt sensitivity, and palm-rejection technology. Plus, it's likely the 2nd-Gen will see more frequent sales or steeper discounts throughout the latter half of this year, thanks to its new sibling. 

2. You want to upgrade your iPad but not your stylus

Maybe you're ready to upgrade your iPad but don't want to shell out the extra cash for the new Apple Pencil Pro -- there's good news. Recent iPad models still support the older Apple Pencil, giving users two stylus options to choose from. 

So, if you're not looking to upgrade your stylus accessory (or you want to save a few dollars and skip out on the new model), you don't need to purchase the new Apple Pencil Pro -- unless you're looking to buy an iPad Pro. 

Alternatives to consider