How to Connect Your Apple Pencil to an iPad or Mac

The basic steps to pair your Apple Pencil

To connect an Apple Pencil to your iPad or Mac, turn on Bluetooth on your device, then hold the Apple Pencil close to the screen. A pairing dialog will appear within a few seconds — tap "Pair" and you're done. The whole process takes less than a minute, and you only have to do it once.

The exact steps depend on which Apple Pencil model you own and which device you're using. Apple Pencil (1st generation) pairs differently than Apple Pencil Pro, and some models charge differently too. Knowing which version you have before you start makes the process straightforward.

Key Takeaways

Apple Pencil pairs through Bluetooth, so your device's Bluetooth must be turned on before you start.
The pairing dialog appears automatically when you hold an Apple Pencil close to a compatible device — you don't search for it manually.
Apple Pencil (1st generation) charges through the iPad's Lightning port, while newer models charge via USB-C or magnetically attach to the iPad.
Once paired, your Apple Pencil stays connected to that device unless you unpair it or pair it with a different device.

Pairing Apple Pencil (1st generation)

Apple Pencil (1st generation) works with iPad Air 2, iPad mini 4, and iPad Pro models from 2015 and later. To pair it, turn on Bluetooth in your iPad's Settings, then remove the cap from the Apple Pencil and plug it into the iPad's Lightning port. A pairing dialog will appear on screen within a few seconds.

Tap "Pair" when the dialog appears. Your iPad will confirm the connection and show the Apple Pencil's battery percentage. The Apple Pencil will stay paired to that iPad until you unpair it manually or pair it with a different device. You don't need to plug it in again to use it — plugging it in was only for pairing.

Pairing Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Apple Pencil Pro

Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Apple Pencil Pro both pair magnetically to the side of compatible iPad Pro and iPad Air models. To pair either one, turn on Bluetooth in your iPad's Settings, then hold the Apple Pencil close to the iPad's screen. A pairing dialog will appear within a few seconds — tap "Pair" to complete the connection.

Once paired, you can attach the Apple Pencil magnetically to the side of your iPad. The magnetic attachment also charges the pencil wirelessly, so you don't need a separate charger. Check the battery percentage in your iPad's Settings under Bluetooth to see how much charge remains.

Pairing Apple Pencil with a Mac

Apple Pencil (USB-C) is the only Apple Pencil model that works with Mac computers. To pair it, turn on Bluetooth in your Mac's System Settings, then hold the Apple Pencil close to your Mac. A pairing dialog will appear — click "Pair" to connect.

Apple Pencil (USB-C) charges through a USB-C cable, not through your Mac. After pairing, you can check the battery percentage in System Settings under Bluetooth. The Apple Pencil will stay paired to your Mac until you unpair it or pair it with a different device.

What to do if the pairing dialog doesn't appear

If no pairing dialog appears after holding your Apple Pencil close to your device for 10 seconds, check that Bluetooth is actually turned on. Go to Settings (on iPad) or System Settings (on Mac) and look for the Bluetooth toggle — it should show as on, not off. If it's already on, try turning it off and back on again.

If Bluetooth is on and the dialog still doesn't appear, your Apple Pencil may need to be charged. Plug Apple Pencil (1st generation) into your iPad's Lightning port, or charge Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Pro by attaching them magnetically to your iPad. Wait a few minutes, then try pairing again. If you still see no dialog, restart your device and try once more.

Unpairing your Apple Pencil

To disconnect your Apple Pencil from your device, go to Settings (iPad) or System Settings (Mac), then open Bluetooth. Find your Apple Pencil in the list of connected devices and tap or click the information icon next to it. Select "Forget This Device" to unpair it.

Once unaired, your Apple Pencil will no longer connect automatically to that device. You can pair it with a different device by following the same steps as the initial pairing. A single Apple Pencil can only be paired to one device at a time, so pairing it with a new device will automatically unpair it from the old one.

Checking battery and connection status

After pairing, you can see your Apple Pencil's battery percentage in your device's Bluetooth settings. On iPad, go to Settings, then Bluetooth, and look for your Apple Pencil in the list. On Mac, go to System Settings, then Bluetooth, and find your Apple Pencil there. The battery percentage appears next to the device name.

You can also see the battery percentage in the Notification Center on iPad — swipe down from the top right corner and look for the battery widget. Some iPad apps also display the Apple Pencil's battery in their interface. If the battery is very low, your Apple Pencil may disconnect or respond slowly until you charge it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use one Apple Pencil with multiple devices?

An Apple Pencil can only be paired to one device at a time. If you want to use it with a different device, you have to unpair it from the first device and then pair it with the second one. The pairing process takes less than a minute, so switching between devices is quick.

Why isn't my Apple Pencil showing up in Bluetooth settings?

If your Apple Pencil doesn't appear in the Bluetooth list, it may be out of battery or too far away from your device. Charge it first — plug in Apple Pencil (1st generation), or attach newer models magnetically to your iPad. Then hold it close to your device and wait 10 seconds for the pairing dialog to appear.

Do I have to pair my Apple Pencil every time I use it?

No. Once you pair your Apple Pencil, it stays paired to that device. You only have to pair it once. After that, it will connect automatically whenever Bluetooth is turned on and the pencil is in range.

What happens if I pair my Apple Pencil with a new iPad?

When you pair your Apple Pencil with a new device, it automatically unairs from the old one. You don't have to manually unpair it first — pairing with the new device handles the disconnection. Your settings and pressure sensitivity will transfer to the new device.

Can I use an Apple Pencil without pairing it?

No. Apple Pencil requires Bluetooth pairing to work with any device. The pairing process is necessary for the device to recognize the pencil and respond to its input. Without pairing, your device won't detect the Apple Pencil at all.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.