Apple Pencil · Connect guide
How to connect Apple Pencil to iPad
Sources checked · how we check
Each Apple Pencil pairs a different way. Pencils that charge magnetically pair when you attach them to the side of the iPad; the others pair through a cable. Identify yours first.
01 · Before you start
Check these first
- Turn on Bluetooth in Settings → Bluetooth.
- Check which Apple Pencil you have and that it works with your iPad model.
- Remove any case or cover that sits between the pencil and the iPad's magnetic connector.
Source: Apple: if you can't pair Apple Pencil with your iPad
02 · Connect
Step by step, by device
Apple Pencil Pro
Attach to the magnetic connector on the long side
- Attach Apple Pencil Pro to the magnetic connector on the long side of your iPad. It pairs and charges there.
Source: Apple iPad User Guide: pair and charge Apple Pencil Pro
Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
Attach to the magnetic connector on the right side
- Attach Apple Pencil to the magnetic connector on the right side of your iPad. It pairs and charges there.
Source: Apple iPad User Guide: pair and charge Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
Apple Pencil (USB-C)
Slide open the end → USB-C cable to iPad → Tap to Connect
- Slide open the end of Apple Pencil and connect it to the USB-C charge cable that came with your iPad.
- Connect the other end of the cable to the iPad's USB-C connector.
- Tap Tap to Connect. You can then unplug the cable.
Source: Apple iPad User Guide: pair and charge Apple Pencil (USB-C)
Apple Pencil (1st generation)
Remove the cap → plug in (Lightning) or use the USB-C adapter → Pair
- On an iPad with a Home button: remove the cap and plug Apple Pencil into the iPad's Lightning connector.
- On iPad (10th generation) or iPad (A16): remove the cap, plug Apple Pencil into the USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter, and connect the adapter to the iPad with the USB-C charge cable.
- Tap Pair when the button appears, then unplug.
Source: Apple iPad User Guide: pair and charge Apple Pencil (1st generation)
If it still won't connect
Centre the pencil on the magnetic connector and remove any case or cover, then try again. Pencils that pair by cable stay paired until you restart the iPad, turn off Bluetooth, or pair with another iPad; pair again after any of those.
Source: Apple: if you can't pair Apple Pencil with your iPad
Frequently asked questions
Why does my Apple Pencil keep disconnecting?
Apple Pencil (USB-C) and 1st generation stay paired only until you restart the iPad, turn off Bluetooth or pair with another iPad.
How do I check my Apple Pencil's battery?
Use the Batteries widget, or go to Settings → Apple Pencil.