The Apple Pencil is a favorite among digital artists, note-takers, and multitaskers alike—until it suddenly stops connecting. Whether you’re using it to sketch a masterpiece, mark up a PDF, or just navigate your iPad more precisely, a non-responsive Apple Pencil can be incredibly frustrating. Fortunately, in most cases, the issue is easy to fix with a few targeted troubleshooting steps.
If your Apple Pencil won’t connect, don’t panic. This guide walks you through the most common issues and how to fix them—whether you’re using a 1st or 2nd generation Apple Pencil.
Step 1: Know Which Apple Pencil You’re Using
Apple currently has two generations of the Apple Pencil:
- 1st Generation Apple Pencil: Has a Lightning connector and pairs via the iPad’s charging port.
- 2nd Generation Apple Pencil: Attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad and charges/pairs wirelessly.
Each model connects differently and is only compatible with specific iPad models, so identifying which version you have is the first step.
Step 2: Check Compatibility
Not all iPads work with both Apple Pencil models. Here’s a quick compatibility rundown:
Apple Pencil (1st Gen) works with:
- iPad (6th to 9th generation)
- iPad Air (3rd gen)
- iPad mini (5th gen)
- Older iPad Pro models (9.7″, 10.5″, 12.9″ 1st and 2nd gen)
Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) works with:
- iPad Pro 11″ (1st gen and later)
- iPad Pro 12.9″ (3rd gen and later)
- iPad Air (4th gen and later)
- iPad mini (6th gen)
Using the wrong Apple Pencil for your iPad is a common and easily overlooked reason why it won’t connect.
Step 3: Make Sure Bluetooth is Enabled
Both versions of the Apple Pencil rely on Bluetooth. If Bluetooth is off on your iPad, the Pencil simply won’t connect.
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth
- Make sure the toggle is on
- If it’s already on, try turning it off and back on again
Still no luck? Move on to the next step.
Step 4: Restart Your iPad
As simple as it sounds, restarting your iPad can fix unexpected pairing issues.
- Press and hold the Power button and either volume button (for Face ID iPads) or just the Power button (for others)
- Slide to power off
- Wait a few seconds, then turn your iPad back on and try connecting your Apple Pencil again
Step 5: Check Apple Pencil Battery
A completely drained Apple Pencil battery can prevent it from pairing.
For 1st Gen Apple Pencil:
- Plug the Pencil into the iPad’s Lightning port
- Let it charge for 10–15 minutes
- Then try pairing again via Settings > Bluetooth
For 2nd Gen Apple Pencil:
- Attach it to the magnetic strip on the side of your iPad
- Wait for the charging icon to appear
- If no icon shows, try removing and reattaching it, or clean the magnetic surface
Step 6: Re-Pair the Apple Pencil
If your Apple Pencil shows as “Connected” but doesn’t work, try forgetting and re-pairing it.
To forget and re-pair:
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth
- Tap the “i” icon next to your Apple Pencil
- Tap “Forget This Device”
- Restart your iPad
- Reconnect the Pencil:
- 1st Gen: Plug it into the iPad and tap “Pair”
- 2nd Gen: Attach it magnetically and wait for the prompt
Step 7: Update Your iPad
Outdated software can cause connectivity issues.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- If an update is available, download and install it
- Then try connecting the Apple Pencil again
Keeping your iPad up to date ensures compatibility with accessories like the Apple Pencil.
Step 8: Inspect for Physical Damage
Check your Apple Pencil for signs of wear and tear:
- Bent Lightning connector (1st gen)
- Cracked or loose tips
- Damaged body or worn magnetic area (2nd gen)
Also inspect the iPad’s charging port or magnetic edge for dirt or debris. Even small particles can disrupt the connection.
If you notice damage, it might be time for a replacement or a trip to the Apple Store.
Step 9: Try on Another iPad
If you have access to another compatible iPad, try pairing the Apple Pencil with that device.
- If it connects there, the issue may lie with your original iPad
- If it doesn’t work on either, the Pencil may be defective
This step helps isolate the problem.
Step 10: Contact Apple Support
If you’ve tried everything and your Apple Pencil still won’t connect, it might be a hardware issue. Apple’s support team can run diagnostics and suggest repair or replacement options.
Visit support.apple.com or head to your nearest Apple Store or authorized service provider.
Final Thoughts
The Apple Pencil is a powerful tool—but like any piece of tech, it can occasionally glitch. Most connection issues stem from low battery, pairing problems, or software bugs, and can be fixed in a few minutes.
By following the steps above, you can usually get your Pencil back in action without too much hassle. And if all else fails, Apple Support is there to help.
Now grab that Pencil and get back to creating, writing, or working smarter!