Apple Pencil is an essential tool for digital artists, note-takers, and creative professionals who use iPads. If you’re wondering how to charge Apple Pencil, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about keeping your stylus powered up and ready to use. We will cover both the first-generation and second-generation Apple Pencil, their charging methods, troubleshooting tips, and battery management best practices.

How to Charge Apple Pencil (1st Generation)

The first-generation Apple Pencil, released in 2015, is compatible with various iPad models, including older versions of the iPad Pro, iPad Air, and the standard iPad. Charging this version of Apple Pencil is straightforward but slightly different from its successor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Charging Apple Pencil (1st Gen)

1. Remove the Cap – At the end of the Apple Pencil, you’ll find a removable cap covering the Lightning connector.
2. Plug It into Your iPad – Insert the Lightning connector directly into the Lightning port of your iPad. Once plugged in, it will start charging immediately.
3. Use an Adapter (Optional) – If you prefer not to charge the Apple Pencil via the iPad, you can use the included Lightning adapter to connect the stylus to a standard Lightning cable and wall charger.
4. Wait for Charging Completion – The Apple Pencil (1st Gen) charges quickly, reaching around 30 minutes of use from just 15 seconds of charging. A full charge takes approximately 15-30 minutes.
5. Check Battery Level – To check the battery status, swipe right on your iPad home screen to access the Widgets panel and look under the “Batteries” section.

How to Know When Your Apple Pencil (1st Gen) is Fully Charged

• Check the battery widget on your iPad.
• Apple does not provide a charging indicator on the pencil itself.
• A full charge should take around 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the battery level.

How to Charge Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)

The second-generation Apple Pencil, released in 2018, offers a more seamless and convenient charging experience. Unlike its predecessor, it magnetically attaches to the iPad for wireless charging.

Step-by-Step Guide to Charging Apple Pencil (2nd Gen)

1. Attach Magnetically – Simply place the Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) on the magnetic strip located on the right edge of a compatible iPad.
2. Wait for the Charging Notification – As soon as you attach the Apple Pencil, a charging indicator will appear on your iPad’s screen, showing the battery percentage.
3. Allow Sufficient Time – Charging is efficient, and within 30 minutes, your Apple Pencil should reach near full charge.
4. Check the Battery Level – Swipe to the “Batteries” widget on your iPad home screen to monitor the charge level.

How to Know When Your Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) is Fully Charged

• When placed on the magnetic connector, a brief notification will show the current charge level.
• The battery widget on the iPad will indicate when charging is complete.
• The charging time varies, but it takes roughly 30 minutes for a full charge.

Troubleshooting Apple Pencil Charging Issues

If your Apple Pencil is not charging, try the following troubleshooting steps:

For Apple Pencil (1st Gen):

• Check the Lightning Port – Make sure the Lightning connector is clean and free of debris.
• Use a Different Power Source – Try charging via the iPad and with a Lightning adapter.
• Restart Your iPad – Sometimes a simple reboot can fix connectivity and charging issues.
• Check for Firmware Updates – Ensure your iPad’s software is up to date.
• Try a Different iPad – If possible, test the Apple Pencil with another iPad to see if the issue is with the stylus or the tablet.

For Apple Pencil (2nd Gen):

• Ensure Proper Magnetic Attachment – The Apple Pencil should align correctly with the magnetic charging area.
• Remove Any Case or Cover – Some third-party iPad cases may interfere with charging.
• Restart Your iPad – A quick reboot might resolve charging detection issues.
• Update Your iPad’s Software – Ensure that your device is running the latest iPadOS version.
• Try Reconnecting the Apple Pencil – Remove the Apple Pencil from Bluetooth settings and reconnect it.

How Long Does It Take to Charge an Apple Pencil?

The Apple Pencil charges quickly:

• 1st Generation: 15-30 minutes for a full charge; 15 seconds of charging provides about 30 minutes of use.
• 2nd Generation: About 30 minutes for a full charge.

Apple Pencil Battery Life and Management Tips

To extend the lifespan of your Apple Pencil battery, follow these tips:

• Avoid Letting the Battery Drain Completely – Keeping your Apple Pencil at least 10-20% charged prevents battery degradation.
• Store Properly – For the 1st generation, avoid leaving it plugged in for extended periods. For the 2nd generation, keep it attached to the iPad when not in use.
• Use Regularly – Lithium-ion batteries perform best with regular use.
• Enable Battery Widget – Always keep an eye on the battery level to avoid unexpected power loss.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures – High or low temperatures can affect battery performance.

Which iPads Support Apple Pencil Charging?

1st Generation Apple Pencil Compatibility:

• iPad (6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th Generation)
• iPad Air (3rd Generation)
• iPad mini (5th Generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st and 2nd Generation)
• iPad Pro 10.5-inch
• iPad Pro 9.7-inch

2nd Generation Apple Pencil Compatibility:

• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th Generation)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Generation)
• iPad Air (4th and 5th Generation)
• iPad mini (6th Generation)

Conclusion

Knowing how to charge Apple Pencil properly ensures that you can use your stylus whenever you need it without interruptions. Whether you own the 1st generation or 2nd generation Apple Pencil, the charging process is simple and efficient. Always keep your Apple Pencil charged and follow the best battery management practices to extend its lifespan. If you run into any issues, the troubleshooting steps provided should help resolve most common charging problems.