Apple's Evolution in Stylus Technology
During its "Let Loose" event earlier this year, Apple introduced its latest iPad lineup that includes the M4 iPad Pro, a 13-inch iPad Air, and the next generation of its stylus – the Apple Pencil Pro. Known for consistently pushing technological boundaries, Apple first brought the Apple Pencil to market in 2015, followed by the Apple Pencil 2nd Gen in 2018 and the USB-C Apple Pencil in November 2023. Each of these releases brought new innovations, and with the Apple Pencil Pro, Apple continues this trend by integrating enhanced features tailored to the new iPad Pro models.
Enhanced Features of the Apple Pencil Pro
With the new Apple Pencil Pro, users can experience upgraded functionality designed particularly for creative professionals. This stylus introduces several new features: a squeeze function for easy switching between tools, colors, and line weights; a gyroscope-enabled barrel roll for precision in brush and pen control; and customized haptic feedback providing tactile responses through pulses. Furthermore, for those prone to misplacing their tech, Apple has incorporated its native Find My technology within this stylus, ensuring users can easily locate their Apple Pencil Pro.
Priced at $129 in Apple's online store, the Apple Pencil Pro offers considerable enhancements in comparison to its predecessor, the 2nd Gen Apple Pencil. However, potential buyers might question whether these upgrades justify the investment. Let’s delve into a detailed comparison between the Apple Pencil Pro and its earlier version.
Comparison of Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (2nd Gen)
| Specifications | Apple Pencil Pro | Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 6.53 inches | 6.53 inches |
| Diameter | 0.35 inch | 0.35 inch |
| Weight | 0.68 ounces | 0.73 ounces |
| Connections | Bluetooth | Bluetooth |
| Key Features | Find My technology, Squeeze gesture, Barrel roll, Double tap, Apple Pencil hover | Magnetically attaches to iPad, Automatic pairing, charging, Double tap, Apple Pencil hover |
| Compatibility | iPad Pro 13-inch (M4), iPad Pro 11-inch (M4), iPad Air 13-inch (M2), iPad Air 11-inch (M2) | iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd to 6th Gen), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st to 4th Gen), iPad Air (4th, 5th Gen), iPad mini (6th Gen) |
| Price | $129 | Typically $129, often on sale for $80 |
Reasons to Choose the Apple Pencil Pro
If you are a creator or developer heavily invested in using the iPad for complex tasks like graphic design, editing, and videography, the Apple Pencil Pro is virtually indispensable. The introduction of the squeeze gesture allows swift alterations of tools and other features, while the advanced gyroscope facilitates intricate control over brush and pen applications, enhancing creative precision significantly. The custom haptic feedback also adds a layer of tactile interaction that enriches overall user experience.
Additionally, the new Apple Pencil Pro supports the latest Apple Pencil hover technology which is crucial for precise placement and control, a feature not entirely matched by the previous generation except for certain models. Notably, this stylus is exclusively equipped with Find My technology to aid in tracking the device, providing a peace of mind for forgetful users.
Who Should Consider the Apple Pencil (2nd Gen)
For those looking to economize, the Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) can be considered as an excellent choice, especially given its availability during major sale events where it can dip to prices around $80. While lacking some of the Pro's enhanced features, it still retains essential functionalities such as low latency, tilt sensitivity, and palm rejection, ensuring a competent user experience without stretching the budget.
Moreover, if upgrading your iPad does not necessitate an immediate change of stylus, the older Apple Pencil remains compatible with recent iPad models, hence allowing continued use without the need for additional expenditure. Therefore, users focusing on cost efficiency and foundational stylus features could continue to benefit from the 2nd Gen Apple Pencil.
Exploring Alternatives
If neither Apple Pencil option fits your criteria, alternatives like the Logitech Crayon present a viable option. Built using Apple Pencil technology and fully compatible with a wide array of Apple Pencil-supported apps, it serves as a credible non-Apple branded alternative and is even endorsed on Apple's website. Another option is the Apple Pencil USB-C, which, while not as feature-rich as its counterparts, provides essential attributes like low latency at a lower cost, albeit without pressure sensitivity or wireless charging capabilities.
