Top-tier alternatives to the Apple Pencil, as endorsed by experts
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option to the Apple Pencil for drawing on their iPad, there are several styluses that offer a good balance of features and affordability. Here are some of the top picks:
Logitech Crayon
The Logitech Crayon is an Apple-approved alternative that boasts lightning-quick recharge and around 7.5 hours of battery life. It offers comfortable ergonomics, palm rejection, and tilt functions, making it a reliable choice for general drawing and note-taking. While it lacks pressure sensitivity, it is praised for its consistent performance in drawing and note-taking apps [1][4].
ESR Stylus Pen / ESR Digital Pencil
The ESR Stylus Pen is considered the best budget pick due to its value for money. It offers palm rejection, tilt support, magnetic attachment (for compatible iPads), and a long battery life of about 13 hours. However, it lacks pressure sensitivity and Bluetooth features found in higher-end styluses. It provides smooth, natural drawing and good precision and is compatible with many iPad models [1][3].
Adonit Note Series
Ideal for artists on a budget, the Adonit Note offers 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, palm rejection, and programmable shortcuts. It supports many iPads and offers around 10 hours of continuous use with USB-C charging, making it a strong alternative for digital art without the Apple Pencil’s higher price tag [1].
Blooming Stylus Pen
Another affordable option with palm rejection, magnetic attachment, and precise tracking but without pressure sensitivity, the Blooming Stylus Pen doesn’t require charging, which is convenient for uninterrupted drawing. Compatibility is limited mostly to iPads from 2018 onward [4].
Sonar Pen 2
Although less common, the Sonar Pen 2 offers true pressure sensitivity similar to the Apple Pencil and works well with some digital art apps, making it a noteworthy budget option for digital artists seeking that capability [5].
For general drawing and note-taking without pressure sensitivity, the Logitech Crayon and ESR Stylus Pen are top budget choices. For artists needing pressure sensitivity on a budget, the Adonit Note and Sonar Pen 2 stand out. Always check compatibility with your iPad model before purchasing [1][3][4][5].
Pricing and Compatibility
- The Logitech Crayon costs around $80 and is compatible with various iPad models, including the iPad mini 6th Gen, iPad 10th Gen, all iPad Pros back to 3rd Gen (12.9-inch) and 1st Gen (11-inch), and iPad Air back to 3rd Gen.
- The RRP for the Adonit Dash 4 is $59.99 in the US and £60-£70 in the UK, and can frequently be found at a lower price on sites like B&H Photo Video in the US or various online electronics retailers and eBay in the UK, often for as little as $40-$50 / £35-£50.
- The Adonit Note+ is compatible with most iPad apps and offers up to 10 hours of continuous use with USB-C charging.
- The ESR Stylus Pen costs around $30-$40 and has a long 13-hour battery life.
- The Logitech Crayon and ESR Stylus Pen are good choices for general drawing and note-taking without pressure sensitivity, catering to the needs of those working within a budget.
- Artists who require pressure sensitivity on a restricted budget may find the Adonit Note or Sonar Pen 2 more suitable, offering necessary features without the high cost of the Apple Pencil.
- The Logitech Crayon, boasting a rechargeable battery and comfortable ergonomics, is an Apple-approved alternative with reliable performance in drawing and note-taking apps.
- The Adonit Note, tailored for artists, offers 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity and programmable shortcuts, making it an attractive choice for digital art creation with a lower price tag.
- The ESR Stylus Pen, regarded as the best budget pick, offers features such as palm rejection, tilt support, and a long battery life, providing smooth and natural drawing with good precision.
- The Sonar Pen 2, though slightly uncommon, offers true pressure sensitivity similar to the Apple Pencil, making it a noteworthy budget option for digital artists seeking that capability.
- When considering a budget stylus, it is essential to verify compatibility with your iPad model before making a purchase to ensure a smooth and enjoyable user experience with drawing, design, and creative applications, as well as gadgets and technology integrations.
