The best iPad styluses are excellent tools for digital artists, and for anyone who wants to take notes on their iPad, or even just navigate the device without getting messy fingerprints on it. We’ve tested and reviewed a wide range of options, from Apple‘s own official iPad styluses to alternative iPad styluses from other brands, including budget iPad styluses.
For drawing, you need precision and features like palm rejection, pressure sensitivity and a fast response time. For this, we found Apple Pencil to be the best option (which model will depend on which iPad you have – see the questions section at the bottom for more on this). However, if you only want an iPad stylus for taking notes or navigating, a cheaper, more basic option will do the job, and there are some attractive designs to choose from.
The best iPad stylus available now
Why you can trust Creative Bloq
Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
1. Apple Pencil (2nd gen)
+ Ergonomic design
+ Best drawing experience
– Doesn’t work with all iPads
The second-gen Apple Pencil has a comfortable and balanced feel, rapid response time and pressure sensitivity for smooth drawing and notetaking. With wireless charging, gesture controls, and a flat-edge design that prevents rolling, it’s the best iPad stylus experience that we’ve had. For more details, refer to our full review.
2. Apple Pencil (1st gen)
+ Compatible with basic iPad
+ Slightly cheaper than Pencil 2
– Not magnetic
The original Apple Pencil still offers a premium drawing experience with excellent sensitivity and battery life. It charges quickly via a Lightning connector, but not magnetically, and the cap is easy to lose. This is our top choice if you have the standard iPad or an older model that doesn’t support Apple Pencil 2. See our full review for more.
+ Beats Apple on price
+ Palm rejection
– No pressure sensitivity
The Logitech Crayon is an excellent iPad stylus alternative, even earning Apple’s official approval. While it lacks pressure sensitivity, we were impressed by its precision, easy connectivity, durable battery and comfortable aluminum build, which is suitable for both kids and adults. For more information, see our full Logitech Crayon review.
+ Pressure sensitivity
+ App compatibility
– No palm rejection
With pressure sensitivity, this is a standout iPad stylus for drawing. It has Bluetooth connectivity, 2,048 pressure levels, customisable buttons, and it’s compatible with creative apps. We were happy with the 15-hour battery life, and the sleek design enhances its premium feel, but the price is almost as much as Apple’s offerings.
+ Stylish
+ Good battery life
– No pressure sensitivity or Bluetooth
The Adonit Dash 4 offers the versatility of compatibility with most iPads. While it lacks pressure sensitivity, it can toggle palm rejection for drawing or writing. With a sleek aluminum design and a long-lasting battery, it’s a great option for casual users. For more details, see our Adonit Dash 4 review.
+ High-end design
+ Comfortable feel
– No pressure sensitivity
We love how how this iPad stylus option looks like a traditional fountain pen with its sleek metal body and removable cap to protect the lid. Our tests found it to be a good option for note-taking, as it’s comfortable to hold and can be easily clipped onto clothes for storage it. Read our full Adonit Star review for more details.
+ Great design and battery life
+ Palm rejection
– No pressure sensitivity
With its beautiful wooden texture and light weight, this is the most pencil-like iPad stylus. With no pressure sensitivity, it’s aimed at note-taking rather than drawing, but it does have palm rejection and the price is very reasonable. See our full Adonit Log review for more details.
+ Palm rejection
+ Tilt sensitivity
– No pressure sensitivity or wireless charging
The Zagg Pro Stylus is a solid alternative to the Apple Pencil, offering palm rejection and tilt sensitivity. It lacks pressure sensitivity but provides a comfortable experience across most iPad apps. With a hidden USB charging port and magnetic attachment, it’s cost-effective and well-designed.
+ Very cheap
+ Comfortable to use
– Basic passive stylus (no connectivity).
Adonit’s Mark stylus is an affordable, basic passive stylus that lets you navigate your iPad without using your finger. It offers a comfortable grip, an anti-roll design, and a precise, smudge-free mesh tip for smooth navigation, but it’s not a stylus for drawing.