Learn how to pair an Apple Pencils and set up it up with your iPad. We’ll also cover which Apple Pencil pairs with which iPad.

By Elisabeth Garry Updated 02/01/2023

What to Know

The set up process is different for first and second-generation Apple Pencils, so check which model you own.
Once paired, you can customize settings to use your Apple Pencil exactly how you'd like.

If you have a brand new Apple Pencil, you may be wondering how to connect your Apple Pencil to an iPad. When you pair an Apple Pencil to an iPad, you can draw, write, and perform many different gestures with it. In this article, we'll show you all about how to pair and set up an Apple Pencil with your iPad.

Is Your Apple Pencil Compatible with Your iPad?

Before you begin, make sure your Apple Pencil is compatible with your generation of iPad.

Apple Pencil (2nd gen)

If you have a second-generation Apple Pencil, you can connect it to the following iPad models:

iPad mini (6th generation)
iPad Air (4th generation and later)
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later)
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later)

Apple Pencil (1st gen)

If you have a first-generation Apple Pencil, you can connect it to the following iPad models:

iPad mini (5th gen)
iPad (6th gen and later)
iPad Air (3rd gen)
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st and 2nd gen)
iPad Pro 10.5-inch
iPad Pro 9.7-inch

How to Set Up Apple Pencil (1st gen)

If you are sure your Apple Pencil is compatible with your iPad, it's time to pair the devices. To learn more about what you can do with your iPad and Apple Pencil, check out our Tip of the Day newsletter.

Remove the cap from the back end of your device and plug the Apple Pencil into your iPad's Lightning port.
A notification will appear on screen. Tap Pair.
You can now set up your Apple Pencil.
Tap Settings.
Scroll down and tap on Apple Pencil.
Here, you can see how much charge your Apple Pencil has and adjust its settings.
Toggle Only Draw with Apple Pencil on if you'd rather navigate your device with your fingers and only use your Apple Pencil for drawing or writing.
Toggle Scribble on to convert any handwritten text in a text area to type.
Tap Try Scribble to practice writing in a text field and having it converted into type.
Tap Left Corner Swipe to turn taking screenshots or opening Quick Note with your Apple Pencil on or off. When turned on, this gesture will work even if you have Only Draw with Apple Pencil toggled on.
Tap Right Corner Swipe to turn taking screenshots or opening Quick Note with your Apple Pencil on or off. When turned on, this gesture will work even if you have Only Draw with Apple Pencil toggled on.

Now you know how to connect an Apple Pencil to your iPad!

How to Set Up Apple Pencil (2nd gen)

Connecting the second-generation Apple Pencil is easy thanks to the magnetic connector located on the side of the iPad. Here's how to connect the Apple Pencil to your iPad.

Attach your Apple Pencil to the side of your iPad using the magnetic connector (all you should need to do is hold your Apple Pencil to the side of your iPad).
Tap Pair.
You can now set up your Apple Pencil.
Tap Settings.
Scroll down and tap on Apple Pencil.
Here, you can see how much charge your Apple Pencil has and adjust its settings.
Here. you can change the double-tap action.
Toggle Only Draw with Apple Pencil on if you'd rather navigate your device with your fingers and only use your Apple Pencil for drawing or writing.
Toggle Scribble on to convert any handwritten text in a text area to type.
Tap Try Scribble to practice writing in a text field and having it converted into type.
Tap Left Corner Swipe to turn opening screenshots or taking screenshots with your Apple Pencil on or off. When turned on, this gesture will work even if you have Only Draw with Apple Pencil toggled on.
Tap Right Corner Swipe to turn taking screenshots or opening Quick Note with your Apple Pencil on or off. When turned on, this gesture will work even if you have Only Draw with Apple Pencil toggled on.

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Great job! Now you know how to set up Apple Pencils with your iPads! Sometimes even if you forget an Apple Pencil on your iPad, it will connect automatically when connected via magnet or plug. If you experience your Apple Pencil not pairing or Apple Pencil not working, read this. Another common issue can be your Apple Pencil tip needing replacement.

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