Apple pen 2nd gen vs 1st gen

Alongside the new 11 and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models, Apple introduced a second-generation Apple Pencil, which is designed to work exclusively with its latest tablets.

In our latest YouTube video, we took a look at the new Apple Pencil 2 and compared it to the original Apple Pencil to highlight all of the improvements that Apple made with the second iteration of its iPad stylus.

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The original Apple Pencil's Lightning connector was always a questionable design choice. It was meant to plug into the bottom of the iPad Pro, but it stuck straight out and was inconvenient at best and dangerous at worst, as an ill-timed drop could cause damage when charging.

Apple's new Apple Pencil does away with the Lightning connector all together because the device is now able to charge via a magnetic connection to the new iPad Pro models. The Apple Pencil 2 snaps right onto the new iPad Pro, which allows for pairing, charging, and storage when it's not in use.

With no Lightning connector, the new Apple Pencil is lighter and easier to hold for longer periods of time, and it has a cleaner look with no metal cap at the top.

While the first Apple Pencil was round and prone to rolling off of flat surfaces, the new Apple Pencil has a flat side for connecting to the iPad, and that flat bit also prevents it from rolling as much.

In addition to these design and function changes, the Apple Pencil 2 introduces support for gestures. With a double tap, the Apple Pencil 2 can switch between tools in apps that support the feature, which is super useful because it allows for quick changes between a pencil and an eraser.

Apple is, unfortunately, charging $30 more for its newest Apple Pencil. The second-generation device costs $130, whereas the original was priced at $100. For users who have a new iPad Pro model, the Apple Pencil 2 is the only available choice as the original Apple Pencil does not work with the new tablets.

Likewise, the second-generation Apple Pencil is compatible only with the new iPad Pro models, so you can't get one and take advantage of the new features without also having a 2018 iPad Pro.

What do you think of Apple's new second-generation Apple Pencil? Is it worth the premium over the original? Let us know in the comments.

Also, if you wonder what Pencil your current iPad is compatible with, please check out this blog. Let’s compare Apple Pencil 1 and 2.

DISCLAIMER: Please make sure, before you buy an Apple Pencil, that it is compatible with your iPad. You can check that here. 

Of course it is an unfair comparison in terms of picking a winner. Obviously that is the second generation. This blog is for people who have different questions. For example, is it worth it to update to the 2nd generation? Since that also involves you buying a new iPad, it is worth it to dig a little deeper into the subject before you start spending your money.

The Differences

The first Apple Pencil came out in late 2015, and the second in late 2018. There are three years of development between them. In terms of dimensions, the newest version is shorter, thinner and has a different shape with one flat side. The first generation is completely round. This makes the second generation easier and more natural to hold. The finish on the first generation is glossy, whereas the second generation has a matte finish. This also makes it nicer to hold.

A very necessary change was the type of charging. Where the first generation Apple Pencil has this weird cap and lightning port solution, which seems perfect for potentially breaking both pencil and iPad, the second generation charges wirelessly. 

Another difference is that the second generation Apple Pencil allows for a double-tap on the pencil to activate certain functions, like moving instantly between drawing and erasing. Also, the way you store the second generation Apple Pencil makes sure you do not have to worry about charging. It charges automatically when attached to the iPad. With the first generation Apple Pencil the charging is somewhat unnatural.

You want your Apple Pencil to be compatible with your iPad. You can check what pencil works with that iPad here. It is good to know that they work practically the same, and the all Apple Pencil tips are the same. This means that wether you're buying new Apple Pencil tips or protective custom Apple Pencil tips to slide over your pencil tip, they fit no matter what Apple Pencil you have.

When it comes to Apple Pencil 1 vs Apple Pencil 2, there is one thing that is important to remember: as James Jullier, who has more than 300,000 subscribers on YouTube, points out in this video, the difference in Apple Pencil won’t make you a better or worse artist. He says, 

“If you’ve not had an iPad and Apple Pencil very long, and the finances are not available to upgrade at this point, you’re not missing out on a huge amount. It [the 2nd gen] is definitely a better Apple Pencil … but your artwork won’t suffer.”

It is not strange that a better product comes out after three years of feedback and development. However, this does not mean that the first generation Apple Pencil is bad. It is still a great tool for artists to create. The second generation Apple Pencil is better, but the first is still good enough. Even the Apple Pencil tips are the same. You can actually take the tip of a first generation Apple Pencil and screw it on the second generation. 

Perhaps if you really like the second generation better as a tool than the first, it is a good reason to upgrade. For example, if you don’t like how you have to hold the first generation Apple Pencil, or if you forget to charge it all the time. In such cases, an upgrade will actually improve your output. 

However, if you are happy with the way your first generation Apple Pencil works for you, there is no pressing reason to upgrade. Save yourself some money instead of spending big on an upgrade that might only give you marginal gains.

Please let us know what Apple Pencil you use, or will be using after reading this blog. If you have used both Apple Pencils, please tell us what differences you noticed between them. 

What's the difference between Apple Pencil Gen 1 and 2?

Is it worth getting 2nd Gen Apple Pencil?