Apple has two models of its iPad stylus with the second-generation Apple Pencil seeing some notably improvements compared to the original. While both have pressure sensitivity and various sensors that allow greater artistic expression, the newer version differs in design, charging method, specifications and functions.
The first Apple Pencil was launched in 2015 along with the first iPad Pro. At the time, a pressure-sensitive stylus was not common tablet equipment, but Samsung, known for its S Pen, was an early leader in tablets with a stylus. For the most part, it was considered a specialty item included with drawing slates, such as those made by Wacom. While not quite as customizable as the top of the line Wacom, the iPad Pro gained respect as an artist’s tool. In addition to good pressure sensitivity, the Apple Pencil also detects tilt and most painting apps take advantage of this to alter a brush stroke. A very nice way to make painting more expressive and closer to the experience of a real brush. The first generation Pencil pairs via Bluetooth, but uses the Lightning port to make the connection instantly. The Lightning port is also used for charging, which happens super fast. Fifteen seconds of charging allows for thirty minutes of use.
The Apple Pencil 2, released in 2018, saw significant changes to the design. While the older model is a smooth cylinder, the newest version is flat on one side. This prevents rolling when placed on a table or desk, but the primary reason for the change is for magnetic attachment to the newer iPad models that have flat sides. A problem with the first generation model was losing the Pencil or the Pencil cap, which had to be removed for charging. The latest Apple Pencil also improved charging, which is now done magnetically while stored on the edge of an iPad. That means the Pencil is always charged, ready to use and harder to misplace. The Apple Pencil 2 also has a double-tap feature that can be customized to change between drawing and erasing or switching between two recent paint colors. A little added touch from Apple, the newest model can be engraved for free.
iPad Compatibility & Art Use
![Apple Pencil Vs. Apple Pencil 2: iPad Stylus Differences Explained](https://static1.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/CD500429-B1B5-499D-BC2F-A28DC745967D.jpeg)
Compatibility depends on the model of iPad it is used with and some older iPad models will not recognize either Apple Pencil. In general, any iPad made in 2018 or newer that has flat edges will be compatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil. A bit of trivia, the very first iPad had flat edges, but it preceded the Apple Pencil by five years and is not compatible with either Apple Pencil model. Any iPad made in or after 2018 that has a Home Button will be compatible with the first generation Apple Pencil.
Both models of Apple Pencil are great art tools, adding so much to the digital painting or drawing experience that it becomes a must-have item for anyone interested in art. Most art apps include a wide variety of brushes, pencils, air brushes, even palette knives, to simulate real world art tools. Customization is usually possible to alter the feel of the tool. For example, many allow combinations of pressure and tilt to be assigned to stroke width, opacity or various bristle effects. The Apple Pencil 2 adds the double-tap feature, which is a great time saver, but requires the user to own the more expensive iPad models.