As you know, the 3rd generation Apple Pencil with USB-C surprisingly went on sale this week. The new model of the Apple Pencil series, which we expected to come with iPads, came with a USB-C charging socket. So, is this new model a disappointment due to its shortcomings? Which Apple Pencil makes more sense for you? Here is our news and details, which compares Apple Pencil generations and serves as a purchasing guide…
Which Apple Pencil is for you? Here is the Apple Pencil buying guide!
We will proceed in sections in the news so that you can more easily understand which features we are comparing and so that you can make a price-performance comparison more easily from the price list at the end of the news. First, let’s list the common features of the 1st generation, 2nd generation and USB-C models (which we can call 3rd generation for now).
“Perfect Pixel Precision, Low Latency, Tilt Sensitivity” features have been kept common by Apple for all 3 generations. The features we will mention hereafter are generally features that are present in two models but not in one of them. For this reason, since we need to sort by “user areas”, we will interpret it based on field and feature.
The 1st and 2nd generations of the Apple Pencil series have “Force Sensitivity” features. This is especially important for users who draw because thanks to this feature, we get sensitive drawing reactions to all applied force rates, from a light touch to a strong pressing movement. It can also be used with tilt sensitivity during shading. Unfortunately, this feature is not included in the USB-C model.
Another feature is something that users ignore by saying “is it really necessary?” But as you start using it, you will realize that it is necessary. The 2nd and USB-C generation of the Apple Pencil family sticks to your iPad when you’re not using it, without being in danger of being lost. This feature is not available for the 1st generation. The contactless charging that comes with this feature is only available in the 2nd generation pens. The 1st generation pen does not charge because it does not stick, which is acceptable, but the USB-C generation does not charge even though it sticks.
Additionally, both the 1st generation and the USB-C generation lack the wireless pairing feature. In addition, these two generations are also exempt from the “Double Tap Switching Between Vehicles” feature. If we need to turn this into a table, the table looks like this:
Feature | 1st Generation | 2nd Generation | with USB-C (3rd) Generation |
Pixel perfect precision | There is | There is | There is |
Low latency | There is | There is | There is |
Sensitivity to tilt | There is | There is | There is |
sensitivity to force | There is | There is | None |
Magnetic adhesion feature | None | There is | There is |
Wireless pairing and charging | None | There is | None |
Touch detection feature with Apple Pencil on iPad Pro | None | There is | There is |
Switch between tools with a double tap | None | There is | None |
Free laser printing | None | There is | None |