Is ipad air 2 compatible with apple pencil 1st gen

With the release of the iPad Air 3 and iPad mini 5 in 2019, all of Apple's then-current-generation iPads, from mini to Pro, supported some version of the Apple Pencil. Thankfully, now with the releases of the iPad Air 5, iPad mini 6, and the latest versions of the iPad Pro, that's still true.

Note that if an iPad supports the first-generation Apple Pencil, it won't support the second-generation, and vice versa.

Which iPads support the first-generation Apple Pencil?

The following iPad models (both current and past) support the first-generation Apple Pencil:

  • iPad Pro, 12.9-inch (2015)
  • iPad Pro, 9.7-inch (2016)
  • iPad Pro, 10.5-inch (2017)
  • iPad Pro, 12.9-inch (2017)
  • iPad (2018)
  • iPad Air 3 (2019)
  • iPad mini 5 (2019)
  • iPad (2019)
  • iPad (2020)
  • iPad (2021)

The first-generation Apple Pencil has a cap on it concealing a Lightning connector, which plugs into the Lightning port on these iPads for both quick pairing and charging. The Apple Pencil can also be charged by way of the included Lightning adapter, which features two Lightning ports on it, one into which you plug the Apple Pencil, and one into which you plug a Lightning cable.

Which iPads support the second-generation Apple Pencil?

The number of iPads that support the second-generation Apple Pencil has risen significantly in the last few years:

  • iPad Pro, 11-inch (2018)
  • iPad Pro, 12.9-inch (2018)
  • iPad Pro, 11-inch (2020)
  • iPad Pro, 12.9-inch (2020)
  • iPad Air 4 (2020)
  • iPad Pro, 11-inch (2021)
  • iPad Pro, 12.9-inch (2021)
  • iPad Mini 6 (2021)
  • iPad Air 5 (2022)

The second-generation Apple Pencil is all one solid piece except for the removable tip. There's no cap to remove and no Lightning connector. Instead, the Apple Apple Pencil magnetically attaches to one of the sides of the iPad Pro or iPad Air for inductive charging. This is also how you pair the Apple Pencil to a compatible new iPad. It just snaps on, asks to pair, and starts charging.

Is ipad air 2 compatible with apple pencil 1st gen
For most iPads

Apple Pencil (First generation)

$71

(opens in new tab)at Newegg (opens in new tab)

$94.99

(opens in new tab)at Amazon (opens in new tab)

$99.99

(opens in new tab)at Best Buy (opens in new tab)

A great stylus that works with almost all current iPads.

This highly-responsive stylus is excellent for drawing, handwriting, and even as a pointing device. Works with the latest entry-level iPad and older iPad models.

For iPad Pro / iPad Air / iPad Mini 6

Apple Pencil (Second generation)

$71

(opens in new tab)at Newegg (opens in new tab)

$94.99

(opens in new tab)at Amazon (opens in new tab)

$99.99

(opens in new tab)at Best Buy (opens in new tab)

Sticks to the side of your iPad

Supporting the 2018/2020/2021 iPad Pros, the iPad Air 4/5 and iPad Mini 6, the second-generation Apple Pencil works just like the first-generation model, adding a gesture area that accepts a double-tap to change the tool you're using in your current app. Pairs and charges through a magnetic inductive charging spot on compatible iPads.

For the first few years of the iPad's life, companies released hundreds of different styluses that they claimed would make drawing and writing a breeze. In reality, they usually weren't much better than using your finger.

This is where the Apple Pencil came in. Originally released in 2015, the Apple Pencil is a wireless stylus that's specifically designed to work with iPads. It's not much bigger than an average pen, and is great for drawing and taking notes.

Now there are two versions of the Apple Pencil, each with its own design and features. Here's everything to know about the Apple Pencil, including what it does, and what type of iPad you'll need to use one.

The Apple Pencil, explained

The Apple Pencil is a stylus — a pen made to use on digital screens — that can do anything your finger can do, but with more precision. This means that you can more easily tap small icons, draw complex shapes, and write in your own handwriting.

Is ipad air 2 compatible with apple pencil 1st gen

Apple Pencil (1st Generation)

$99.00 from Walmart

$99.00 from Amazon

$99.99 from Best Buy

Is ipad air 2 compatible with apple pencil 1st gen

Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)

$129.00 from Apple

$129.00 $99.00 from Amazon

$129.00 $99.00 from Best Buy

William Antonelli

Tech Reporter for Insider Reviews

William Antonelli (he/she/they) is a writer, editor, and organizer based in New York City. As a founding member of the Reference team, he helped grow Tech Reference (now part of Insider Reviews) from humble beginnings into a juggernaut that attracts over 20 million visits a month. Outside of Insider, his writing has appeared in publications like Polygon, The Outline, Kotaku, and more. He's also a go-to source for tech analysis on channels like Newsy, Cheddar, and NewsNation.

What pencils are compatible with iPad Air 2?

Neither version of Apple Pencil is compatible with your iPad Air2 - as your iPad lacks the necessary screen hardware. Your only option is to look for a third-party Bluetooth Stylus - but support for its use is not universal; Apps must generally provide explicit support for defined stylus devices.

Which iPads are compatible with Apple Pencil 1?

Compatible with.
iPad. (6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th* generation) *requires USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter..
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..