Apple Pencil 2 review 2024: for artists and graphic designers

For many years, digital artists and graphic designers have relied on the Apple Pencil as their primary tool of choice. The Apple Pencil, which is now on its second generation, is compatible with all iPad models; however, the Apple Pencil model that you can use will be determined by the kind of iPad that you own.

We decided it was time to revisit the Apple Pencil because iPadOS 14 included a whole bunch of new functions that are compatible with the Apple Pencil. This is especially true when you consider the fact that those new features make it possible for anyone to find some use for the gadget. Should you purchase the second-generation Apple Pencil for your iPad Pro or new iPad Air now that capabilities like Scribble are available? In order to find out, we decided to put it to the test.

Apple Pencil 2 SPECIFICATIONS

Apple Pencil 2 review: Design

Even though the Apple Pencil 2 doesn’t have a lot of fancy features, it’s a huge improvement over the first one. The matte plastic version is shorter and easier to hold than the glossy version. Overall, it feels just like holding a pencil, which, judging by the name, is probably what Apple was going for.

See our post on the best Apple Pencil grips if you still find it hard to hold. The Apple Pencil 2 also has one flat side instead of being completely round. This makes it easier to hold and also lets you use the tap controls. You can buy this apple pencil from its official website.

Apple Pencil 2 review: Performance

The Apple Pencil, already a popular and high-quality digital drawing tool, keeps getting better with each new version of the iPad’s operating system. Drawing on the laminated displays of the iPad Air and iPad Pro is almost as natural as drawing on paper due to the devices’ lightning-fast response speeds. Drawing apps like Procreate offer a broad array of brushes and customization options that make the Apple Pencil 2 suited for any sketching or painting style.

Because of the Pencil’s flat edge’s tap possibilities, it has become a more viable option for artists. Drawing can continue uninterrupted as the user simply taps the pencil to switch tools rather than the screen. The Apple Pencil is fantastic for artists, but even those who aren’t should consider buying it. Apps like Scribble, which take advantage of the new iPadOS tools, make the tablet great for handwritten notes. 

Apple Pencil 2 review: Compatibility

The Apple Pencil 2 doesn’t have much that people don’t like about it. One of the few small problems is that the basic shape is still the same. The Pencil is, well, a pencil. Which is great for people like me who have always used and loved pencils. No help for people who like the way thicker or sleeved drawing tools feel in their hands.

Also, you can’t cover the top any more because of the new double-tap zone. And with the new charging technology, you can’t cover the middle anymore, so unless someone comes up with something really clever, the Pencil shape will stay the same for everyone.

Apple Pencil 2 review: Battery Life

The way the Apple Pencil 2 charges may be the biggest improvement over the first version. The Pencil 2 doesn’t stick awkwardly out of the charging port, which is one of Apple’s worst design mistakes ever. Instead, it just magnetically snaps to the side of the iPad. This not only keeps the Apple Pencil always charged, but it also makes it much easier to grab and use when inspiration strikes.

And since Scribble lets you write anywhere you can type text on the whole iOS system, having the Pencil with you at all times is a very useful thing to do. The official battery life is 12 hours, and we didn’t run out of juice even after a long drawing session. If you keep it attached to the iPad when you’re not using it, it will probably always be fully charged.

Apple Pencil 2 review: Price and availability

Apple’s second-generation Pencil is a major upgrade over the original, and it’s one of the main reasons to buy the iPad Air 2 in 2020 rather than an older iPad that only supports the first-generation Pencil. The new Pencil’s simple magnetic charging, innovative design, and excellent performance earn it our Editor’s Choice, despite its hefty price tag of $129. This is because serious artists and design professionals should not skimp on top-quality equipment.

Final Words

the Apple Pencil (2nd Gen), we found out how fantastic it really is. Apple was able to create a groundbreaking product with a first generation that was far superior to the competition. All of the aforementioned problems with the new Pencil are rather minor complaints.

When paired with the latest iPad and the right apps, using the Apple Pencil is a natural and satisfying experience. You can’t buy a new iPad Executive without also buying an Apple Pencil, and the only one that works with the iPad Pro is the second generation one. Without it, the iPad loses all of its value.

THE GOOD AND THE BAD

FAQS

What is so special about Apple Pencil 2?

Apple Pencil 2 has pixel-perfect accuracy and the lowest latency in the industry. This makes it great for drawing, sketching, coloring, taking notes, annotating PDFs, and more. And using it is as natural and easy as using a pencil.

What makes the Apple Pencil 2 better?

At the end of the day, the answer is easy: it’s the Apple Pencil 2. The matte finish makes it easier to use with sweaty hands than the first version. The extra “button” is useful, and the magnetic attachment with wireless charging is a huge improvement over the plugged-in charging of the first version.

How not to lose Apple Pencil 2?

On the left side of the keyboard, there is a small magnet, and the Apple Pencil will just about stick to it. If you leave the Pencil on your desk, it won’t roll away on its own anymore. In the same way, some of the best iPad Pro cases can help you keep your Apple Pencil from getting lost.