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Top 6 Best Apple Pencil Apps 2025
The Apple Pencil is a multifunctional instrument perfect for a wide range of tasks, including drawing, sketching, taking notes, and annotating documents. Its pressure sensitivity feature and accurate tip have garnered popularity among artists, designers and students. Nonetheless, the vast selection of apps in the App Store can pose a challenge when searching for ones that best match your preferences.
In this article, we’ve researched and tested various Apple Pencil apps to identify the ones that offer the best user experience and functionality. Whether you’re an artist looking for a digital canvas or a student looking for an app to take notes in class, we’ve got you covered.
When choosing an Apple Pencil app, it’s essential to consider the type of work you’ll be doing. Some apps are better suited for drawing and illustration, while others are designed for handwriting and note-taking. Additionally, it’s important to look for apps that offer features like palm rejection and pressure sensitivity, which can make using the Apple Pencil more comfortable and natural.
We’ve tested a range of apps that meet these criteria and have identified the top contenders in each category. Whether you’re a professional artist or a student looking to take better notes, we’ve found the best Apple Pencil apps for you.
Best Apple Pencil Apps
We’ve compiled a list of the best Apple Pencil apps that will help unleash your creativity. Whether you’re an artist, designer, or just looking for a fun way to take notes, these apps will make the most out of your Apple Pencil. From sketching and drawing to annotating and note-taking, these apps offer a wide range of features and tools that will elevate your digital experience. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best Apple Pencil apps available on the App Store.
Apple Pencil (2nd Generation): Pixel-Perfect Precision and Industry-Leading Low Latency, Perfect for Note-Taking, Drawing, and Signing documents. Attaches, Charges, and Pairs magnetically.
If you’re looking for a high-quality stylus that can transform your iPad into a canvas, Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) is an excellent choice. With its pixel-perfect precision, tilt and pressure sensitivity, and imperceptible lag, this stylus makes painting, sketching, doodling, and note-taking better than ever.
Pros
- The flat edge of the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) allows you to change tools with just a tap from your finger, making it easy and natural to use.
- This stylus attaches magnetically to your iPad for wireless pairing and charging, so you never have to worry about running out of battery.
- Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) is compatible with a wide range of iPad models, including iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad mini.
Cons
- At 0.73 ounces, the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) may feel a bit heavy for some users, especially during extended use.
- While the stylus is designed to attach magnetically to your iPad, it may slip from your hand if you’re not careful.
- Some users may find the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) a bit pricey compared to other styluses on the market.
Overall, we highly recommend the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) for anyone looking for a high-quality stylus that can take their iPad experience to the next level. Whether you’re an artist, a student, or just someone who loves to take notes and doodle, this stylus is an excellent investment that will serve you well for years to come.
In our experience, the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) is incredibly easy and natural to use, with a level of precision and sensitivity that is unmatched by other styluses on the market. Whether you’re drawing, sketching, coloring, taking notes, or marking up documents, this stylus does it all with ease and accuracy.
One of the things we love most about the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) is its seamless integration with the iPad. The stylus attaches, charges, and pairs magnetically, so you never have to worry about cables or adapters. And with its pixel-perfect precision and industry-leading low latency, you’ll feel like you’re drawing or writing on paper, not on a screen.
Of course, like any product, the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) has its drawbacks. Some users may find it a bit heavy or slippery, and the price point may be a bit steep for some budgets. However, we believe that the benefits of this stylus far outweigh the drawbacks, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a top-of-the-line stylus that can transform their iPad into a canvas.
Metapen iPad Pencil A11 for iPad 10th/9th, Air 5/4/3丨App Control & Customizable Shortcuts丨Alternative for Apple Pen Pencil 1st/2nd Gen, Stylus Pen for iPad Pro 11″ 1st & 12.9″ 3rd Gen,Palm Rejection Classic White
If you’re looking for a high-performance Apple Pencil alternative, the Metapen iPad Pencil A11 is a great option. With its compatibility with a wide range of iPad models and customizable side button, it is a versatile tool for all your creative needs.
Pros
- The customizable side button allows for easy access to frequently used tools, increasing productivity.
- The cutting-edge signal adjuster ensures exceptional accuracy and responsiveness across a wide range of tip options.
- The fast charging technology and longer battery life make it a reliable and convenient tool for everyday use.
Cons
- The magnet attach feature is not available on certain iPad models, such as the iPad Air 3rd Gen and iPad 6th/7th/8th/9th/10th Gen.
- The battery life may not last as long as advertised, depending on usage.
- It may not be as sensitive as the Apple Pencil in terms of pressure sensitivity.
Overall, the Metapen iPad Pencil A11 is a great alternative to the Apple Pencil, offering similar performance and functionality at a more affordable price point. Whether you’re an artist, student, or professional, this stylus pen is a reliable and versatile tool that can help streamline your creative process and boost productivity.
In terms of compatibility, the Metapen iPad Pencil A11 is specialized for Apple iPad (10th. 9th, 8th, 7th, 6th generation); iPad Air (5th, 3rd, 4th Gen); iPad Pro 12.9″ (6th, 5th, 4th, 3rd Gen); iPad Pro 11″ (4th, 3rd, 2nd & 1st Gen); iPad mini (6th and 5th Gen). It’s important to confirm your iPad’s compatibility before purchasing by checking the method: Settings > Tap General > Tap About > Model name [iPad XX (X generation)].
The customizable side button is a standout feature of the Metapen iPad Pencil A11, allowing you to assign personalized functions to the side button with single/double/triple presses. This makes it easy to change tools, activate an eraser, or start recording when in your lecture or accessing frequently used tools.
Supported by advanced algorithms of the P2 chip, the Metapen iPad Pencil A11 delivers exceptional 0.1mm pixel precision without any perceptible delay, guaranteeing accuracy and responsiveness across a wide range of tip options. You can swap between soft, basic and metal tips to customize your iPad drawing/writing experience while maintaining the precision and performance of the Metapen A11 iPad Stylus.
The fast charging technology and longer battery life make it a reliable and convenient tool for everyday use. With just 30 minutes of charging, you get 8 hours of battery life. Charge 4 mins = work 100 mins. With an instant battery % widget on your iPad via Bluetooth connection, you can focus on your work or studies without worrying about running low on battery.
In conclusion, the Metapen iPad Pencil A11 is a great alternative to the Apple Pencil, offering similar performance and functionality at a more affordable price point. With its compatibility with a wide range of iPad models and customizable side button, it is a versatile tool for all your creative needs.
DIGIROOT Stylus Pen
We highly recommend the DIGIROOT Stylus Pen for iPad users who want a reliable and affordable alternative to the Apple Pencil.
Pros
- Quick charging time
- Palm rejection and tilt sensitivity
- Magnetic attraction for easy portability
Cons
- No pressure sensitivity
- Limited compatibility with older iPad models
- May not work well with certain screen protectors
This stylus pen charges quickly and lasts for a long time, making it perfect for on-the-go use. Its palm rejection and tilt sensitivity features allow for a natural writing and drawing experience, while the magnetic attraction makes it easy to store and transport. However, it does not support pressure sensitivity and may not work well with certain older iPad models or screen protectors.
In our experience, the DIGIROOT Stylus Pen worked seamlessly with our iPad Air 4, allowing us to take notes and draw with ease. The power display feature is also helpful in ensuring that we never run out of battery mid-use. Overall, we highly recommend this stylus pen for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable alternative to the Apple Pencil.
Metapen D1 iPad Pencil
If you’re looking for a versatile and ergonomic Apple pencil alternative, the Metapen D1 iPad Pencil is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The patented ergonomic design ensures a natural and fatigue-free drawing experience.
- The customizable side button streamlines your creative process and boosts productivity.
- The cutting-edge signal adjuster guarantees accuracy and responsiveness across a wide range of tip options.
Cons
- The unique tapered shape may make it difficult to store in a designated slot.
- The magnet attach feature is not available on some iPad models.
- The Metapen app may need some improvement.
We’ve been using the Metapen D1 iPad Pencil for a while now and we’re impressed with its performance. The tapered shape feels comfortable to hold and the soft rubber grip provides precise control and enhanced drawing accuracy. The programmable button can be customized to your liking using the intuitive Metapen app, which is a great feature for those who want to streamline their workflow.
The signal adjuster is also a standout feature, delivering an exceptional 0.1mm pixel precision without any perceptible delay. You can swap between soft, basic, and metal tips to customize your iPad drawing/writing experience while maintaining the precision and performance of the Metapen D1 iPad Pen.
The fast charge technology and longer battery life are also impressive. With just 30 minutes of charging, you get 8 hours of battery life. The instant battery % widget on your iPad also ensures that you won’t have to worry about running low on battery during important work or study sessions.
Overall, we highly recommend the Metapen D1 iPad Pencil for digital art and note-taking starters and enthusiasts who are looking for a comfortable and versatile Apple pencil alternative.
JAMJAKE Stylus Pen
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable stylus pen for your iPad, the JAMJAKE Stylus Pen might be the one for you.
Pros
- Compatible with a wide range of iPad models
- Precise and smooth writing experience
- Palm rejection technology for natural writing feeling
Cons
- Not compatible with iPad models before 2018
- No pressure-sensitive design
- Short battery life
We’ve been using the JAMJAKE Stylus Pen for a few weeks now, and it has been a great addition to our iPad accessories. The pen is compatible with a wide range of iPad models, including the iPad 10th/9th/8th/7th/6th Gen, iPad Air 3rd/4th/5th Gen, iPad Pro 11 inches, iPad Pro 12.9 inches 3rd/4th/5th/6th Gen, iPad Mini 5th/6th Gen. It’s easy to use, with no need for Bluetooth connection – simply touch the cap button to turn it on.
The 1.5mm pen tip allows for precise and smooth writing, and it’s easy to install and tear off the tips without any tool. The palm rejection technology provides a natural writing feeling and quick, effortless interaction with the screen, giving you more accuracy and control. However, the pen doesn’t have a pressure-sensitive design, which might be a deal-breaker for some users.
The battery life is decent, but not great – it requires 15-20 minutes of charging and can support the work of 8-10 hours. We found ourselves having to charge it frequently, which can be a bit inconvenient.
Overall, the JAMJAKE Stylus Pen is a great option for those looking for an affordable and reliable stylus pen for their iPad. It has its limitations, but it gets the job done.
Metapen iPad Pencil A8
If you’re looking for an affordable Apple Pencil alternative, the Metapen iPad Pencil A8 is a great option.
Pros
- The tips are 2X more durable than the original Apple Pencil and pass the 12 mmiles tip durability test.
- Fast charging time of only 30 minutes and 10 hours of battery life.
- Palm rejection and double stronger magnets for a secure attachment to your iPad.
Cons
- No magnet attach for Apple iPad Air 3rd Gen and iPad mini 5th.
- Doesn’t show battery level on iPad.
- No pressure sensitivity.
We’ve been using the Metapen iPad Pencil A8 for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its performance. The 0.1mm pixel precise tip allows for smooth and accurate writing and drawing. The tilt sensitivity feature is also a nice touch, allowing for shading and thicker lines.
We appreciate the fast charging time and long battery life, making it perfect for students and professionals who take notes frequently. The double stronger magnets ensure a secure attachment to your iPad and the palm rejection feature prevents accidental marks.
However, we do wish that the pen had pressure sensitivity and showed the battery level on the iPad. Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and reliable Apple Pencil alternative, the Metapen iPad Pencil A8 is definitely worth considering.
In conclusion, we recommend the Metapen iPad Pencil A8 for those who want a durable and affordable alternative to the Apple Pencil, with fast charging and a long battery life.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best Apple Pencil app, there are a few factors to consider. Here are some key features to look out for:
Compatibility
First and foremost, ensure that the app you choose is compatible with your device and version of iOS. Some apps may require the latest version of iOS or a specific iPad model, so be sure to check the compatibility requirements before purchasing.
User Interface
A well-designed user interface can make a big difference in your overall experience with the app. Look for apps that have a clean and intuitive interface, with easy-to-use tools and menus.
Features
Consider what features are important to you and your workflow. Do you need an app that offers advanced drawing tools, or are you looking for something that focuses more on note-taking and organization? Look for apps that offer the features you need to get your work done efficiently.
Price
Price is always a consideration when choosing an app. While there are many free options available, some of the more advanced apps may come with a price tag. Consider your budget and what you are willing to spend on an app.
Reviews
Lastly, be sure to read reviews from other users to get an idea of their experiences with the app. Look for reviews that mention the features you are looking for, as well as any potential issues or drawbacks.
By considering these factors, you can find the best Apple Pencil app to suit your needs and help you get the most out of your device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated drawing apps compatible with the Apple Pencil?
There are several great drawing apps available that work seamlessly with the Apple Pencil. Some of the top-rated ones include Procreate, Adobe Fresco, Sketchbook, and Concepts. These apps offer a wide range of features and tools that allow users to create stunning digital art with ease.
Which apps for taking notes are most enhanced by using an Apple Pencil?
The Apple Pencil is a game-changer when it comes to taking notes on the iPad. Some of the best note-taking apps that are enhanced by using an Apple Pencil include Notability, GoodNotes, and OneNote. These apps offer features like handwriting recognition, annotation tools, and the ability to import and export notes across different platforms.
What are the best free apps that support Apple Pencil functionality?
While many of the top-rated apps for the Apple Pencil come with a price tag, there are some great free options available as well. Some of the best free apps that support Apple Pencil functionality include Autodesk Sketchbook, Tayasui Sketches, and Adobe Photoshop Sketch.
Can you recommend any engaging games that are designed to work with the Apple Pencil?
Yes, there are several engaging games that are specifically designed to work with the Apple Pencil. Some of the best options include Linea Sketch, Zen Brush 2, and Pigment. These games offer a unique and immersive experience that takes full advantage of the Apple Pencil’s capabilities.
Are there any Apple Pencil apps specifically optimized for the iPad Pro?
Yes, there are several apps that are specifically optimized for the iPad Pro and take full advantage of its larger screen and processing power. Some of the best options include Procreate, Notability, and GoodNotes.
What are some effective apps for improving handwriting on the iPad with an Apple Pencil?
If you’re looking to improve your handwriting on the iPad, there are several apps that can help. Some of the most effective apps include GoodNotes, Penultimate, and Nebo. These apps offer features like handwriting recognition, automatic shape correction, and the ability to convert handwritten notes to text.
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