Cheaper Apple Pencil With USB-C Port Is Coming Soon: Should You Purchase It or Not?

Joseph Henry, Tech Times 17 October 2023, 01:10 pm

(Photo : Apple)
The newest entry-level Apple Pencil now comes with USB-C charging capability. Check its features here.

Apple's newest accessory, the Apple Pencil with USB-C port is coming at a very low price. The Cupertino giant is currently offering it for only $79.

For iPad users who are looking for a cheaper alternative, now is the time to pre-order this new version. This cost-effective stylus might lack other features but it's still a good purchase nevertheless.

Apple Reveals USB-C Apple Pencil

According to a report by The Verge, the new Apple Pencil has USB-C support and can attach magnetically. It boasts a sleek matte finish, reminiscent of the second-generation model, making it visually appealing. Additionally, it incorporates an indented edge that enhances ergonomics, ensuring comfortable use during extended creative sessions.

Unlike its counterparts, the Apple Pencil (USB-C) doesn't support magnetic wireless charging and pairing. Instead, it sports a concealed USB-C port under its cap. This port serves the dual purpose of pairing and charging the stylus, eliminating the need for wireless connectivity.

What's New With USB-C Apple Pencil?

This cost-effective stylus doesn't compromise on performance. It offers pixel-perfect precision, ideal for writing, sketching, and drawing. The low latency ensures a natural and responsive experience, akin to using a traditional pencil on paper. Furthermore, tilt sensitivity allows for shading and various creative effects.

Exclusive to the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and the Apple Pencil (USB-C) is the feature of hovering on iPad Pro models equipped with the M2 chip. This capability lets you preview your marks before applying them, enhancing precision.

What's Lacking With the Cheaper Apple Pencil?

While it has an array of good features, it lacks a few capabilities that we can only see in its predecessors. As such, the entry-level Apple Pencil does not have the double-tap feature that is present in the second-gen Apple Pencil.

Aside from that, you won't see wireless charging and pairing which is exclusive again to the Apple Pencil II. The pressure sensitivity is nowhere to be found on it, as well.

Apple Pencil Compatibility

When it comes to compatibility, the newly-released stylus is reportedly compatible with some iPad models, per 9to5Mac. According to the report, it goes well with the following.

10th-gen iPad
4th and 5th gen iPad Air
1st to 4th gen 11-inch iPad Pro
3rd to 6th gen 12.9-inch iPad Pro
6th-gen iPad mini

Indeed, its compatibility with the base model iPad, without the need for adapters, is a significant leap. Previously, only the Apple Pencil (1st generation) was compatible with the base model iPad, requiring a Lightning to USB-C dongle for charging.

The affordable Apple Pencil with USB-C is set to be available for order in early November, offering iPad users a more budget-friendly yet powerful creative tool.

For more updates about Apple Pencil, just click this link.