How to Set Up Apple Pencil on an iPad: Pair Every Model

To pair Apple Pencil with an iPad, confirm they’re compatible, turn on Bluetooth in Settings > Bluetooth, then connect using the Pencil’s method: magnetic attachment, USB-C cable, or Lightning. Apple Pencil Pro, USB-C, 2nd generation, and 1st generation use different steps, so identify your model first.

Check Apple Pencil and iPad compatibility

Apple Pencils are not interchangeable across every iPad. Apple’s compatibility list includes these models:

Apple Pencil (USB-C) has a sliding end that reveals a USB-C port; 1st generation has a removable cap over its Lightning connector. Pro and 2nd generation both attach magnetically and look similar. Check the product packaging or Apple’s Apple Pencil compatibility list if unsure. For a paired Pencil, check its name under Settings > Bluetooth > My Devices.

Pair Apple Pencil Pro or 2nd generation

These two models pair and charge by attaching to the magnetic connector on the compatible iPad. On most supported models, the connector is along the long edge of the iPad.

1. Open Settings > Bluetooth and make sure Bluetooth is on.
2. Center the flat side of Apple Pencil Pro or Apple Pencil (2nd generation) on the iPad’s magnetic connector. Let it snap into place.
3. Leave the Pencil attached while the iPad recognizes it. The connection and charging are handled through the magnetic connector; there is no cable to plug in.

If it does not connect, remove a thick case or cover and try again. Apple Pencil (USB-C) can attach magnetically for storage, but it pairs and charges over a USB-C cable instead.

Pair Apple Pencil (USB-C)

1. Slide open the end of the Pencil to reveal its USB-C port.
2. Connect a USB-C charge cable, such as the one that came with your iPad, to the Pencil; connect the other end to the iPad’s USB-C port.
3. When Tap to Connect appears on the iPad, tap it. After pairing, disconnect the cable if you want to write or draw; the Pencil can remain paired.

Apple Pencil (USB-C) charges while connected by cable. If you need to charge it separately, use a USB-C charge cable and a compatible power adapter. For exact model and iPadOS requirements, check Apple’s compatibility list first.

Pair Apple Pencil (1st generation)

On an iPad with a Lightning port

1. Remove the Pencil’s cap.
2. Plug its Lightning connector into the iPad’s Lightning port.
3. When the Pair button appears, tap it. Unplug the Pencil after pairing; it charges while connected.

On iPad (10th generation) or iPad (A16)

These iPads have USB-C ports, so a 1st-generation Apple Pencil needs Apple’s USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter plus a USB-C charge cable. Remove the Pencil cap, plug the Pencil into the adapter, and connect the adapter to the iPad with the cable. Tap Pair when prompted. The Pencil charges while connected. The adapter is required for this pairing method; a standard USB-C cable alone will not connect the Pencil directly.

If Apple Pencil will not pair

• Recheck compatibility and software. Confirm the exact iPad model and required iPadOS version. Install the latest iPadOS update available for your device.
• Check Bluetooth and charge. Bluetooth must be on. If the Pencil may be depleted, keep it attached or cabled to the iPad for about a minute, then reconnect and wait for the pairing prompt.
• Restart with the Pencil connected. Keep the Pencil attached or plugged in, restart the iPad, and try pairing again.
• Forget and reconnect. If the Pencil appears under Settings > Bluetooth > My Devices, tap its info button, choose Forget This Device, reconnect it using the correct method, and tap Pair or Tap to Connect when shown.
• Remove magnetic interference. For Apple Pencil Pro or 2nd generation, take off the iPad case or cover and center the Pencil on the connector again.

Apple says the Pencil may need service if the prompt still does not appear. Its Apple Pencil pairing troubleshooting guide has the full checklist.

Check the connection and battery

Check the battery in the Batteries widget or Settings > Apple Pencil. After restarting the iPad, turning Bluetooth off, or pairing with another iPad, you may need to reconnect and pair again. Apple’s official instructions cover each method: Apple Pencil Pro, 2nd generation, USB-C, and 1st generation.