As an indispensable iPad companion enabling creativity and productivity, the Apple Pencil transforms how you interact with apps for drawing, sketching, annotating documents, note taking and more.
But to unlock the Apple Pencil‘s full capabilities on demand, knowing how to properly charge your first or second-generation model is key.
In this comprehensive walkthrough, I‘ll teach you simplified steps for powering up the Apple Pencil 1 and 2, provide charging speed data comparisons, visualize battery durations, share expert troubleshooting advice for issues, and finally summarize key learnings in easily digestible charts.
By the end, you‘ll be a charging pro ready to fully utilize these game-changing iPad accessories!
Apple Pencil Generations at a Glance
Before diving into charging specifics, let‘s briefly compare the key Apple Pencil models available:
Apple Pencil 1st Generation
- Released November 2015
- Features detachable magnetic cap
- Glossy all-white design
- Charges via Lightning connector
Apple Pencil 2nd Generation
- Released November 2018
- Flat, stable edge prevents rolling
- Matte finish provides grip
- New magnetic pairing/charging
While physically distinct in aesthetic design and charging methodology, both Apple Pencil generations transform iPad productivity and creativity through exceptional precision, low latency, and seamless app integration.
But you won‘t unlock the full perks without knowing how to properly charge these devices. So with that foundation set, let‘s get to it!
Step-By-Step: How To Charge an Apple Pencil 1st Generation
The first Apple Pencil made its debut alongside the 2015 iPad Pro. With an all-white finish and removable magnetic cap, it charges via a female Lightning port that hides beneath said cap.
Here‘s an illustrated 3-step walkthrough to power up the OG Apple Pencil:
Step 1: Detach Magnetic Cap
First, unsnap the magnetic cap at the non-writing end to reveal the female Lightning socket. Be careful not to misplace this easily losable cap!
Removing the 1st generation Apple Pencil‘s magnetic cap exposes the Lightning charging interface
Step 2: Attach Included Female-to-Female Adapter (Optional)
The Apple Pencil ships with a short Lightning adapter designed to enable connectivity with standard charging cables.
To utilize this method, simply insert one end into the Apple Pencil‘s Lightning receptacle as shown.
You can skip this intermediary piece if preferred by plugging the Pencil directly into your iPad.
The optional female-to-female Lightning adapter lets you connect any Lightning cable to charge the Apple Pencil
Step 3: Connect Apple Pencil to Power Source
With the adapter inserted (or not), it‘s now time to connect your power source to commence charging the Apple Pencil battery:
Option A: Plug the Apple Pencil (or adapter) directly into the Lightning port built into your compatible iPad model.
Option B: Attach your preferred Lightning cable to the adapter, then plug the other end into a wall charger brick, computer, or other USB power source.
And that‘s the full process for powering up the first-gen Apple Pencil! Generally, you can expect:
- 15-30 minutes: 0% to 100% charge time
- 30 seconds: ~30 minutes usage
- 12+ hours: Typical battery duration before recharging
Now let‘s examine the newer second-generation charging experience…
Step-By-Step: How To Charge an Apple Pencil 2nd Generation
The Apple Pencil 2 iterated upon its predecessor with several enhancements, including the magnetic Apple charging protocol for swift wireless power-ups.
Thanks to this new charging strip integration paired with battery optimizations under the hood, powering up the Apple Pencil is easier than ever.
Here‘s how to magnetically charge your second-generation Apple Pencil in 3 effortless steps:
Step 1: Align Flat Edge with Magnetic Charging Strip
All 2018+ iPad Pro models feature an integrated magnetic charging panel along the right-side frame. This enables drop-in wireless charging for the Apple Pencil 2.
To begin, orient the flat edge of your Apple Pencil 2 with the long magnetic strip on your iPad frame. The flat design means correct alignment is intuitive.
Aligning the flat side of your Apple Pencil 2 ensures proper magnetic attachment for wireless charging
Step 2: Magnetically Adhere Apple Pencil
As you draw the Apple Pencil near, magnets inside the Pencil and iPad will strongly pull together, securing the stylus in place. You‘ll feel and hear satisfying clicks as the bond forms.
Step 3: Charging Initiates Automatically
Once magnetically fixed in place, charging begins straight away with no cables required! The iPad wirelessly transfers power to replenish the Apple Pencil.
A percentage tracker appears, keeping you updated on charging progress. Fully depleted, expect about 15 minutes for 0-100% charging.
Magnetically adhering the 2nd generation Apple Pencil enables swift and simple wireless charging
For fast, cable-free charging, magnetic wireless charging definitely improves convenience compared to the original Lightning connector method.
Now let‘s compare the two approaches.
Charging Methods Comparison: Apple Pencil 1 vs 2
While the Apple Pencil 1 and 2 deliver a similar exceptional iPad experience thanks to strong feature parity, the charging methodology differs significantly:
| Charging Aspect | Apple Pencil 1st Gen | Apple Pencil 2nd Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Connector Type | Lightning (wired) | Magnetic wireless charging |
| Cables Required? | Yes | No cables needed |
| Duration: 0% → 100% | ~15-30 minutes | ~15 minutes |
| Charging Accessory | Included female-to-female adapter | Magnetic iPad strip |
For visual learners, here is quick comparative overview of battery duration for both models:
As shown above, both Apple Pencils achieve similar real-world usage on a full charge. However the second-generation magnetic charging edge clearly has convenience advantages.
Next let‘s cover some common Apple Pencil charging questions.
Apple Pencil Charging: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to top queries people have about powering their Apple Pencil:
How do I know when my Apple Pencil is fully recharged?
Watch for the onscreen charging indicator to hit 100% completion. For the 2nd generation, check when the percentage tracker hits 100.
Can I use my Apple Pencil while it‘s charging?
Unfortunately direct usage during charging is not possible. For peak drawing accuracy and speed, Apple Pencils must be detached from any charging cables/magnetic connections before use.
How Long Should My Apple Pencil Last Per Full Charge?
Under average usage conditions, expect around 11-12 hours of continuous runtime before a charge is required. If heavily used for drawing/writing, your mileage may be less.
My Apple Pencil Won‘t Charge – Help!
First, check for any debris, dust or damage blocking the charging interfaces. For the first-gen, ensure the Lightning adapter and cable connections are properly seated.
Retry charging, trying multiple cables and chargers if possible. If issues persist, you may need service for a hardware defect or battery replacement.
And there you have it! Consider yourself now a charging expert for both Apple Pencil models. To summarize key learnings:
- 1st gen charges via Lightning, 2nd gen uses magnetic wireless charging
- Both fully charge 0-100% in around 15 minutes
- Real-world duration per charge is similar at ~12 hours
- Keep charging interfaces debris-free for optimal connectivity
Armed with this comprehensive charging knowledge, you can confidently power up your Apple Pencil anytime creativity strikes!
Unlock Your Imagination
As you can now harness the Apple Pencil‘s full versatility thanks to properly evergreen power, it‘s time to set your imagination free!
I challenge you to spend an afternoon sketching in Procreate, drafting plans in Illustrator, or taking visually rich notes in Notability. See where the intuitive precision takes you!
With your newfound Apple Pencil charging mastery, you have the confidence to rely on these brilliant tools anytime inspiration strikes.
So go forth and play, create fearlessly like the inner child in all of us, and achieve your personal best work yet on the iPad!
