This site is not affiliated with Apple Pencil; this is an independent explanation.
Apple Pencil not working shows up as no ink on the screen, a Pencil that will not pair, or one that connects but does not draw. In most cases it is a simple issue with Bluetooth pairing, charge or a loose tip, and it takes only a few minutes to sort out.
The Pencil only works with the iPad models it was made for, so the first check is always compatibility. Then comes the connection, the tip and the iPad's own touch screen. If the iPad screen itself ignores your finger too, read touch screen not working, and if the Bluetooth link is flaky in general, see Bluetooth not working.
Common causes
1Pencil is not compatible with this iPad
How to tellNever connects, no pairing prompt appears
What fixes itCheck the iPad model against the Apple Pencil generation on the official support page
2Pencil is not paired or the pairing broke
How to tellPairing popup does not appear, or the Pencil disappears from Bluetooth
What fixes itForget the Pencil in Bluetooth settings and pair again
3Pencil battery is empty
How to tellNo response after sitting unused for days
What fixes itCharge it for several minutes, then retry
4Tip is loose or worn
How to tellScratchy feel, uneven lines or nothing is drawn
What fixes itScrew the tip on firmly or fit a spare tip
5App does not support the Pencil in that mode
How to tellWorks in one app but only moves the page in another
What fixes itTurn on the Pencil option or drawing mode inside the app
6Software glitch on the iPad
How to tellEverything is correct but the Pencil lags or drops
What fixes itRestart the iPad and update iPadOS
7Damaged Pencil or iPad charging contact
How to tellPencil does not charge, rattles or has been dropped
What fixes itAuthorised service
How to fix it, step by step
Confirm your Pencil suits your iPad
Different Pencil generations work with different iPad models, and they charge and pair in different ways. A mismatch means it will never work, no matter what you try. The model name is printed on the iPad's back and the Pencil's details are on the official support page.
Tighten the tip
Twist the tip clockwise until it is snug. A loose tip is a very common reason for a Pencil that seems connected but draws nothing. If it is worn down or damaged, replace it with a spare tip made for your Pencil.
Charge the Pencil
Charge it for a few minutes using the method for your Pencil generation. The Pencil that attaches to the side of the iPad charges magnetically, while the older one plugs into the iPad port or uses its adapter. Check the battery widget on the iPad once it connects.
Switch Bluetooth off and on
Open Settings, then Bluetooth, turn it off, wait ten seconds and turn it on. The iPad needs Bluetooth on to talk to the Pencil.
Forget the Pencil and pair again
In Settings, Bluetooth, tap the information icon beside the Pencil and choose Forget this device. Then connect it again using the pairing method for your Pencil. Make sure the Pencil is not paired with a different iPad that is nearby.
Test in a notes or drawing app
Open the built-in notes or drawing app and write a line. If it works there but not in another app, the other app needs a setting changed or an update.
Restart the iPad and update
Restart the iPad. Then install the latest update from Settings, General, Software Update. Keep the Pencil attached or near while it restarts.
Remove screen protectors and covers
A thick protector can weaken the Pencil's response. A paper-feel film also wears tips quickly. Remove it to test.
Why my Apple Pencil is connected but not working
A Pencil can be paired yet silent for three reasons. The tip may be loose or worn, so no pressure is sensed. The app may treat it as a finger. Or the iPad's touch layer may be slow to respond after a software glitch. Test with a different app and check Settings for Apple Pencil options such as the drawing only mode. Switching it off may allow scrolling with the Pencil.
The Pencil shows connected in Bluetooth and a battery level, but the page does not move when you write. Tighten the tip, test in the notes app, and then restart the iPad.
Apple Pencil Pro and other generations
| Type | How it pairs and charges | Typical fix if dead |
|---|---|---|
| Older plug-in model | Plugs into the iPad port or adapter | Check the connector and cap, charge |
| Magnetic side-attach model | Attaches to the iPad edge | Clean the edge, reattach firmly |
| USB-C model | Connects by cable for charging and pairing | Try another cable |
| Pro model | Attaches to the iPad edge, extra squeeze features | Check iPad compatibility and update iPadOS |
Always confirm exact support for your iPad model on the official site, since the pairing and charging method depends on the iPad. If the iPad does not charge the Pencil's side edge or port properly, read phone not charging.
Apple Pencil not working in iPad apps after an update
After a major update, the Pencil sometimes needs to be forgotten and paired again. Do that, restart, and wait a minute before testing. Some drawing apps also need their own update to work with the latest iPadOS, so update them from the store.
When it is a hardware problem
If the Pencil will not charge at all, rattles after a drop, or the iPad does not show it even after pairing steps, the Pencil or the iPad's charging contact may be faulty. Try the Pencil on a different compatible iPad, if you can borrow one, to see which side has the fault. Repair or replacement cost depends on the Pencil type and warranty status. Take it to an authorised service provider, and do not open the Pencil or iPad yourself.
Never use a fake or unbranded charger on the Pencil or iPad. Use the cable and adapter made for your device.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my Apple Pencil not working on my iPad?
Check that the Pencil suits your iPad, charge it, tighten the tip and pair it again. Those four steps cure most cases.
Why is my Apple Pencil connected but not working?
A loose tip, an app setting or a screen protector is likely. Tighten the tip, test in the notes app and remove any thick film from the iPad.
Why is my Apple Pencil Pro not working?
The Pro needs a compatible iPad and an up to date iPadOS. Update, forget the Pencil and pair again by attaching it to the iPad's edge.
How do I reset an Apple Pencil?
There is no reset button. Forget it in Bluetooth settings, restart the iPad and pair it again.
How long does an Apple Pencil battery last?
It depends on use, but a full charge should last through a long working session on most models. If it drains within minutes, the battery may be worn and needs service.