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The Apple Pencil is a powerful tool for creative professionals and students. From understanding the difference between the 1st and 2nd Generation Apple Pencil to learning how to charge the Apple Pencil, it is always important to understand the right method to charge your devices.
Charging an Apple Pencil is important for maintaining its performance and ensuring that it is always charged when you need to use it with your Apple iPad. With the Jackery Portable Power Stations, one can charge their Apple Pencil 1st generation and 2nd Generation quickly and without even worrying about voltage fluctuation.
What Is The Difference Between Apple Pencil 1st And 2nd Generation?
The Apple Pencils of the 1st and 2nd Generation are designed to offer advanced stylus functionality for artists, students, and other professionals. These two generations differ in several factors, like design, features, and compatibility.
Here's a detailed comparison between Apple Pencil 1st and 2nd Generations:
|
Specification |
Apple Pencil 1st Generation |
Apple Pencil 2nd Generation |
|
Price |
$99 |
$129 |
|
Dimension |
6.92 inches long / 0.35 inches in diameter |
6.53 inches long / 0.35 inches in diameter |
|
Connectivity |
Bluetooth & Lighting |
Bluetooth |
|
Magnetic Attaches |
No |
Yes |
|
Charging |
Lightning |
Wireless |
What Is The Apple Pencil Compatibility?
The Apple Pencils are designed to work with specific Apple iPad models, and before buying a new Apple Pencil, one should learn whether or not the desired Generation of pencils is compatible with their iPads.
Apple Pencil 1st Generation Compatibility
The 1st Generation of Apple Pencil is compatible with the following Apple iPad models and generations:
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st and 2nd generation)
- iPad Pro 10.5-inch
- iPad Pro 9.7-inch
- iPad Air (3rd Generation)
- iPad mini (5th Generation)
- iPad (6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th generation), this requires USB‑C to Apple Pencil Adapter
Apple Pencil 2nd Generation Compatibility
The 2nd Generation of Apple Pencil is compatible with:
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th generation)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generation)
- iPad Air (4th and 5th generation)
- iPad mini (6th Generation)
In order to understand the compatibility in detail, one should understand the difference in design and features of 1st and 2nd generations of Apple Pencil.
Design & Ergonomics
The Apple Pencil from the 1st Generation has a built-in charging method and does not get attached magnetically to the Apple iPad. It has a perfect cylindrical design and is made of glossy plastic.
The Apple Pencil 2nd Generation has a more ergonomic design since it magnetically attaches to the compatible Apple iPad. The pencil is made of matte plastic that feels smooth when used.
Charging Method
The Apple Pencil from the 1st Generation requires manual charging via a Lightning connector, where one needs to remove the cap from the top of the pencil and attach it to the connector on the iPad (6th to 9th generations). The 1st Generation Apple Pencil can also be charged with a USB Power Adapter by plugging it with the Apple Pencil Charging Adapter.
Unlike the 1st Generation Apple Pencil, the 2nd generation Apple Pencil charges wirelessly by magnetically attaching to the side of the Apple iPads
Features
Apple Pencil 1st generation performs basic tasks, like palm rejection, tilt control, and manageable lag time. This Apple Pencil also has pressure sensitivity that helps artists and business professionals perform tasks on compatible Apple iPads.
The Apple Pencil 2nd generation supports advanced features, like allowing the user to switch between tools and functions with just a double tap. Simultaneously, the Apple Pencil's hover feature lets you interact with the compatible iPad without even touching the screen.
How to Charge Apple Pencil 1st Generation?
The Apple Pencil 1st generation is designed in a way that it can charge in multiple ways. If one is wondering how to charge the Apple Pencil, then one should know that each method or process helps in different scenarios, ensuring convenient charging options for users across various devices.
The Apple Pencil 1st generation can be charged using any of the following methods:
Plug In Directly
The plug in method to charge Apple Pencil is a straightforward method where one needs a compatible iPad to charge the Apple Pencil. Follow the below-mentioned steps:
Step 1: Remove the cap from the top of the Apple Pencil to access the built-in Lightning connector.
Step 2: Now plug the Lightning connector directly into the Lightning port of the Apple iPad. Ensure that your iPad has enough battery to charge your Apple Pencil.
Step 3: Leave the Apple Pencil connected with the iPad for a while. Make sure that you leave the devices on the table in a way that you do not accidentally break the connected parts.
Use a USB Adapter
Another easy method to charge the 1st Generation Apple Pencil is to use a USB adapter. In order to charge it using the traditional method, follow the below-mentioned steps:
Step 1: Take the Apple Pencil Charging Adapter that comes with the Lightning cable.
Step 2: Connect the Apple Pencil with the adapter to charge.
If you do not have the Apple Pencil Charging Adapter, then follow the below steps to charge the pencil:
Step 1: Plug a USB power adapter into a power supply.
Step 2: Directly connect the Apple Pencil with it to get charged.
When you wish to charge your Apple Pencil using a USB Adapter during your outdoor activities, you can plug the device into a Jackery Portable Power Station, like the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station, which allows you to quickly charge your pencil without emitting too much noise or harmful fuels.
Use an iPhone
Another easy method to charge your 1st Generation Apple Pencil is to connect it with a compatible iPhone. However, this is not a very traditional method but if you are outdoors and do not have access to a portable power station, then you may try this one out for emergency usage.
Step 1: Make sure that your iPhone is fully charged.
Step 2: Connect the Lightning port of your Apple Pencil with your iPhone to charge.
Use a 10th-generation iPad
You can also charge your 1st Generation Apple Pencil with a 10th-generation (or higher) iPad device.
Step 1: Remove the protective cap from the Apple Pencil.
Step 2: Now plug the end of the pencil into the adapter.
Step 3: Connect the other end of the adapter to your iPad 10th Generation using a USB-C cable.
How to Charge Apple Pencil 2nd Generation?
Unlike the 1st Generation Apple Pencil, the 2nd Generation has a streamlined process to get charged. No matter your location, whether you are at home, in an RV, or enjoying tent camping, charging your 2nd Generation Apple Pencil is very easy if you have a compatible iPad.
Check out the following steps to charge your 2nd Generation Apple Pencil:
Step 1: Start by checking if your iPad Pro or Air is powered on and unlocked.
Step 2: Ensure that the iPad's Bluetooth is turned on. You can check it by accessing the Settings panel.
Step 3: Identify the flat side of the iPad, which is on the Power button side. This flat surface features a magnetic strip that helps in attaching the Apple Pencil.
Step 4: Align the flat side of the Apple Pencil with the flat side of the iPad. When the pencil attaches to the iPad, you will feel a magnetic attraction.
Step 5: Once attached, a charging indicator will appear on the iPad's screen -- confirming that you have correctly aligned the pencil and it is charging.
How to Know My Apple Pencil is Charging?
Whether you are using the 1st Generation Apple Pencil, commonly known as the original Apple Pencil, or the latest iteration, understanding how to determine if your Apple Pencil is charging ensures you can monitor your device's battery status to plan your usage accordingly.
Apple Pencil 1st Generation
One can analyze two different ways to learn whether or not their 1st Generation Apple Pencil is charging or not, and they are:
Indicator Light: When you are charging your 1st Generation Apple Pencil, you can check the charging status by observing the indicator light near the tip. When plugged in correctly, the pencil will have a red light showing that it is charging, and a blue or green indicator will signal that it is fully charged.
iPad Display: Another easy method to learn whether or not your Apple Pencil is getting charged is to check the iPad's screen by swiping down from the top-right corner to access the Control Panel. The latest battery status of your Apple Pencil will be displayed alongside your iPad's battery level.
That said, the 1st Generation Apple Pencil typically takes around 15 mins of charging, which provides 30 - 45 minutes of usage.
Apple Pencil 2nd Generation
In order to understand whether or not your 2nd Generation Apple Pencil is charging, you just need to follow a quick step:
Step 1: Attach the Apple Pencil with the iPad Pro or Air.
Step 2: When correctly plugged, a charging indicator will appear on the screen, confirming the current battery and charging status.
Note: You can easily monitor the 2nd generation Apple Pencil battery percentage by navigating to the Settings menu. In this panel, select the Apple Pencil option that displays the current battery percentage and also the charging status.
Unlike the first-generation Apple Pencil, the latest iteration offers fast charging capabilities. Typically, it provides up to 30 - 45 minutes of generic usage with just 15 seconds of charging. Furthermore, one can fully charge their Apple Pencil 2nd generation from 0% to 100% in around 15 - 20 minutes of charging.
Jackery Portable Power Stations for Apple Pencils
Jackery is a manufacturer of solar generators, portable power stations, and solar panels that help provide an eco-friendly source of battery backups. This global award-winning brand has sold over 3 million units worldwide and received widespread acclaim for its research and development capabilities.
A Jackery Portable Power Station is a portable battery backup, famous for its compact and ergonomic designs. The Jackery Portable Power Stations are ideal for RV living, camping, off-grid adventures, or even for picnic activities.
The Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels feature monocrystalline silicon solar cells that harness the power of sunlight. These cells absorb solar rays, converting them into electricity, which is later transferred to Jackery Explorer Portable Power Stations. With a built-in pure sine wave inverter, this AC electricity can power outdoor appliances like iPads, smartphones, mini coolers, etc.
The Apple Pencil charging adapter differs depending on the adapter currently being used by the user. For instance, one can use a 12 W adapter or even a 20 W USB-C power block to charge the 1st Generation Apple Pencil. With its great battery capacity, Jackery Portable Power Station becomes an ideal partner for charging your Apple Pencil when you are outdoors.
Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station
The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station is ideal for outdoor activities like road trips, extended picnics, campsites, etc. Its ideal weight of 8.27 lbs makes it a great companion for charging an Apple Pencil and other outdoor devices, such as iPads, drones, portable coolers, etc.
The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station has a durable LiFePO4 battery. The powerful battery ensures that your plugged-in devices, especially those sensitive to voltage fluctuation, are completely safe and get a constant voltage.
In order to understand the working hours that you will get when you use a 20 W USB-C power block to charge the 1st Generation Apple Pencil or an iPad, you will need to use the following formula:
Working Hours = Battery Capacity in Wh * 0.85 / Wattage Consumption of the Appliances
Working Hours = 288 Wh * 0.85 / 20 W = 12.2 H.
Note: The total battery capacity is multiplied by 0.85 because some amount of power is lost during the initial charging.
Customer Review:
"Lightweight, making it portable, can charge a phone, laptop, plug in lights, & a small appliance for cooking." -- Marie.
Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station
The Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station is yet another portable power station for frequent air travelers. Its compact design and lightweight make it easier to carry during long flights.
With a 99 Wh battery capacity, the Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station is ideal for simultaneously charging up to 3 devices. With a USB-A output, one can effectively charge their first-generation Apple Pencil iPad Pro or Air to charge the second-generation Apple Pencil.
The working hours of the Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station will be calculated from the following formula.
Working Hours = Battery Capacity in Wh * 0.85 / Wattage Consumption of the Appliances
Working Hours = 99 Wh * 0.85 / 20 W = 14.2 H.
Customer Review:
"Perfect item for charging phones when no outlet is available or convenient." -- Vera Ashford.
Are There Any Apple Pencil Charging Issues? How to Solve Them?
It is very common to experience charging issues with your Apple Pencil. On one hand, it disrupts the entire workflow and creativity, and it also leads to frustration and delays in completing important tasks. However, one can implement timely solutions or troubleshoot the device by identifying the common charging issues.
Some of the common Apple Pencil charging issues with their respective solution are:
Poor Connection
Having a poor connection with the iPad or the charging adapter is by far one of the most common charging issues. If your Apple Pencil is not correctly connected to your iPad or the adapter, then it might face charging issues.
The relative solution is to ensure that your Apple Pencil is properly connected to your iPad or adapter. You can also ensure that the charging ports are clean and that there is no dust or debris present, which might hinder the proper connection.
Potential Damage to Pencil
Another major issue that several users face is the physical damage to their Apple Pencil, like bent or having a damaged Lightning connector. If the Apple Pencil is damaged or even if the magnetic strip of the iPad has some damage, then it will prevent the pencil from charging.
In order to rectify this issue, one can inspect the Apple Pencil or connector for any visible damage. If possible, one can even replace the tip or take the Apple Pencil to Apple Support for repair or potential replacement.
Software Bug
If your iPad has software bugs or glitches, it is likely to prevent external accessories, like an Apple Pencil, from being charged.
The first step that you need to do is to check if your iPad is running on the latest iOS update or not. If the iPad device is on the latest version, then you can either restart it or try hard resetting. In some cases, unpairing and then repairing the Apple Pencil can also resolve the software-related issue.
How to Charge Apple Pencil FAQs
What size of power station do I need for my Apple pencil?
The size of a portable power station that you would require to charge your Apple Pencil depends on your usage. The working hours that you will get with a Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station are calculated by the following formula:
Working Hours = Battery Capacity in Wh * 0.85 / Wattage Consumption of the Appliances
Working Hours = 288 Wh * 0.85 / 20 W = 12.2 H.
How do I charge my Apple Pencil without the Apple Pencil charger?
There are different ways to charge your Apple Pencil. For instance, you can connect it to your iPad's Lightning port directly, use a USB adapter, or attach the 2nd Generation wirelessly with a compatible iPad Pro or Air.
Can I charge the Apple Pencil with my iPhone?
Yes, you can charge your Apple Pencil with an iPhone. That said, this method is not widely accepted, but in emergencies, you can connect an Apple Pencil to the Lightning port on your iPhone.
Why won't my Apple Pencil charge?
There can be several reasons that might be hindering your Apple Pencil from getting charged, like software bugs, physical damage, or poor connection.
Can I charge my Apple Pencil with a regular charger?
Yes, you can definitely charge your Apple Pencil with a regular charger. You can connect the Apple Pencil to the adapter using a Lightning cable and plug it into a power source like a Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station.
How to maintain my Apple Pencil?
First and foremost, avoid dropping or exposing the Apple Pencil to extreme temperatures. You can also keep your Apple Pencil clean from any dust or debris.
Final Thoughts
Most new Apple users wonder how to charge the Apple Pencil in the correct manner. By understanding various methods and troubleshooting common issues, one can keep their 1st and 2nd Generation Apple Pencil powered up for different uses. If you are on the road, traveling with your family, then you can use Jackery Portable Power Stations to quickly charge your devices, including an Apple iPad that would help you charge your 2nd Generation Apple Pencil. Similarly, with the right adapter, this portable power station can also charge your 1st Generation Apple Pencil.
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