Arek Dvornechcuck
Branding Expert
I'm a branding expert and graphic designer based in NY. I specialize in the development of brands: brand strategy, identity & web design. Need help with your project?—Get in touch
I'm a branding expert and graphic designer based in NY. I specialize in the development of brands: brand strategy, identity & web design. Need help with your project?—Get in touch
As a graphic designer, I can say that the Apple pencil is probably the best for creating designs, but we are still in search of the best Apple pencil alternatives to save money.
However, I understand that we all have different preferences, and some of you might want to have the great Apple pencil alternatives available.
What is the best Apple pencil alternative in 2022?
Actually, there are a lot of brands that have tried to imitate the uses and features of Apple pencils to provide artists with a great alternative.
In this article, I will provide you with the best Apple pencil alternatives available, along with some descriptions of each.
So without further ado, here’s my list of the top Apple pencil alternatives for graphic design in 2022.
When buying the best Apple pencil alternatives, there are some things to consider when choosing one.
That’s why I will also provide you with a buying guide for buying the best Apple pencil alternatives.
And to give you a simple explanation of why these things needed to be considered first, here’s why:
One of the best features to look for in a digital pen is its pressure sensitivity level.
The Apple pencil alternatives that have pressure sensitivity will allow you to draw just like you’re using an actual pen and paper.
You can actually work with a high level of accuracy since you can control how thin or thick the pencil stroke will be.
To give you an idea, the Adonit Note+ is probably the best stylus pen with pressure sensitivity, so you can consider buying it.
A stylus with tilt sensitivity allows the artist to shade just like a real pencil when the stylus is tilted at an angle.
This can be especially important for an artist who does a lot of shading work.
Tilt support on a drawing tablet just means that when the pen is tilted, it will result in different sizes of the brush..
It's definitely not necessary but can sometimes make drawing with a tablet feel more natural or similar to traditional art tools.
So if you’re an artist that usually does a lot of shading in your drawings, it is much better to look for an Apple pencil alternative with tilt sensitivity.
When a display supports pen input and touch, palm rejection allows you to rest your palm comfortably on the iPad screen while using the stylus.
Without this feature, your palm would leave stray marks on the digital paper in an app.
One of the best examples of Apple pen alternatives with palm rejection is the Logitech Crayon Digital Pencil, which is also the best overall.
So if you’re an artist that usually does a lot of shading in your drawings, it is much better to look for the Apple pencil alternatives with tilt sensitivity.
As a designer, I can say that a stylus pen that allows connectivity via Bluetooth or comparable wireless technology can be a huge benefit.
Apple pencil alternatives with this wireless connectivity are also much more compatible with drawing software and applications.
It is also ideal to have a digital pen that doesn’t need to be connected through wires, so it can be easier to use.
And lastly, since you’re looking for the best alternative to the Apple pencil, you must look for a stylus that is compatible with Apple products.
There are some digital pencils available today that only work with newer versions of iPads.
However, it is recommended to look for an Apple pencil alternative that will work on both the new and older versions of the iPad.
You can easily work with any Apple device, and the money that you will be spending will be worth it.
These are some of the things to consider when buying an Apple pencil alternative.
Now, let’s jump into my list of the 11 best Apple pencil alternatives to buy in 2022.
As the first item on my list, I'd like to introduce you to the Logitech Crayon, which is the best Apple pencil alternative overall.
The best overall Apple pencil alternative.
It is made to be durable, and it has a very good battery life that can last up to 7 hours of continuous usage.
The Logitech Crayon works with most iPad models and is perfect for artists that are looking for the best alternative to the Apple pen.
This is a great choice for anyone who’s looking for the best Apple pencil alternative with palm rejection.
The Logitech Crayon has excellent palm rejection technology and weighs only 20g, making it ideal for on-the-go creatives.
This Apple stylus alternative is also wireless, so you can move and work comfortably without being bothered by the wires.
If you’re looking for a perfect digital pen aside from the Apple pencil, then the Logitech Crayon Digital Pencil is a must-buy for you.
Size: 16.3 x 1.5 x 1.2cm
Connectivity: Wireless Frequency
Pressure Sensitivity: None
Power: Rechargeable
Weight: 20 grams
Buy Logitech Crayon Digital Pencil on Amazon
Since creatives are the most popular users of stylus pens, I included the Adonit Note+, which is the best Apple pencil alternative for digital creatives.
The best Apple pen alternative for digital artists.
Actually, this stylus pen is the best competitor to the Logitech Crayon since they provide almost the same features.
One of the advantages of the Adonit Note+ over the Logitech Crayon is that it boasts an excellent pressure sensitivity of 2,048 levels.
It also has a longer battery life that can last up to 24 hours, which makes it ideal for any creative work, especially digital arts.
This digital pen from Adonit works with literally all models of the iPad, and it is also lightweight, which makes it perfect for travel.
The Adonit Note+ Digital Pencil is an excellent choice for artists who are looking for the best Apple alternative with pressure sensitivity.
So, if you're a digital artist looking for great Apple pen alternatives for your creative work, the Adonit Note+ is the way to go.
Size: 153 mm x 10.5mm
Connectivity: Wireless
Pressure Sensitivity: 2,048 levels
Power: USB-C
Weight: 15 grams
Buy Adonit Note+ Digital Pencil on Amazon
If the price of the Apple Pencil is deterring you from purchasing one, the Adonit Pro 4 might be a good fit.
The best Apple pencil alternative for casual users.
It's a fairly basic stylus, with no Bluetooth or other fancy wireless features.
For enhanced stability, the Pro 4 uses a precision translucent disc rather than a fiber tip.
The PET Precision Disc, a polycarbonate disc tip, interacts with the touchscreen without scratching it, so it will never obscure its purpose.
This basic stylus also lacks pressure sensitivity settings, so it's not really designed for professionals.
But this function works extremely well for the simple chore of navigating on a touchscreen.
Pro 4 is a premium Apple pencil alternative that comes at a really relatively low price.
If you are a casual user looking for Apple pencil alternatives that work with all touchscreen devices, Adonit Pro 4 will do the work for you.
Size: 5.51 x 0.35 x 5.51 inches
Connectivity: Via Disc
Pressure Sensitivity: None
Power: Battery-Free
Weight: 22 grams
The Zagg Pro Stylus is one of the best Apple pen alternatives that has palm rejection and tilt sensitivity features.
The best Apple pencil alternative for writing.
Although this digital pen has no pressure sensitivity, it can be used for a long period of time because of its amazing battery life.
It also has a wide range of compatibility, especially with the latest iPad versions available today.
This alternative to the Apple pencil from Zagg Pro is an ideal choice for those creatives who love to travel since it is wireless and rechargeable.
The Zagg Pro is a great choice if you’re looking for the best Apple pencil to use for creative software like Procreate and Adobe.
By using this digital pen, you can easily scroll and navigate pages with ease, or make notes, sketches, mark up documents, and more.
If you’re looking for the best Apple pencil alternative for note-taking and editing, you should try the Zagg Pro Stylus.
Size: 8.5 x 2.19 x 1 inches
Connectivity: Wireless
Pressure Sensitivity: None
Power: Battery
Weight: 0.56 Ounces
The Adonit Dash 4 Dual Stylus is not only for iPads but also for iPhones and Android devices.
The best Apple pencil alternative for professionals.
It is one of the best digital pens for professional creatives, especially illustrators and designers.
One of its best features is that it is fast-charging and has an amazing battery life that can last up to 15 hours of usage.
Adonit Dash 4 is a dual stylus that combines two different tech-applied digital pens into one.
It breaks the limitations of using it across old and new iPhone or iPad devices.
This digital pen also has a native palm rejection feature, so you can rest your hand naturally on the screen while drawing.
The Adonit Dash 4 Dual Stylus is an excellent choice for beginners and professionals looking for the best Apple pencil alternatives.
Size: 7.56 x 2.22 x 2.22 inches
Connectivity: Wireless
Power: Battery
Weight: 0.5 Ounces
Buy Adonit Dash 4 Dual Stylus on Amazon
The JamJake K10 Pen not only adapts to the main functions and uses of the Apple Pencil, but it also attempts to mimic its design and appearance.
The best Apple pencil look-alike alternative on a budget.
Among other styluses available today, it is the best alternative if you want an Apple digital pen lookalike.
The only downside to JamJake K10 is that it is not compatible with older iPads, but if you’re using a newer model, it will work best for you.
Although it doesn’t have pressure sensitivity and Bluetooth connectivity, it does have palm rejection technology, and it is very comfortable to use.
The JamJake K10 is also wireless and lightweight, which makes it perfect for freelance designers and creatives on the go.
It also has a unique feature called "Sleep Mode," which will automatically turn on when you are not using the digital pen.
The JamJake K10 Stylus Pen is a great choice for anyone looking for Apple pencil alternatives on a tighter budget.
Size: 8.4 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches
Connectivity: USB-C
Pressure Sensitivity: None
Power: Battery
Weight: 2.36 ounces
Buy JamJake K10 Stylus Pen on Amazon
If you’re looking for an Apple pencil alternative of high-quality, then the Zspeed Stylus Pen is a perfect choice for you.
The best high-quality Apple pencil alternative.
This digital pen has a wide range of compatibility in that it works with literally all iPads and other capacitive touchscreen devices.
As you can notice, it is much cheaper than the previous stylus pen mentioned, but it also boasts amazing features for every creative.
The Zspeed Stylus is perfect for in-demand artists or illustrators since it has an 8-to-10-hour battery life.
Additionally, you don’t have to worry if you forgot to turn off this digital pen since it automatically shuts down after 30 minutes of idle time.
The Zspeed Stylus is a great choice for creatives who are looking for the best Apple pencil alternative to use for everyday work.
If you are looking for a high-quality but cheaper Apple pencil alternative, the Zspeed Stylus Pen is perfect for you.
Size: 15.99 x 8.99 x 1 inches
Connectivity: USB
Pressure Sensitivity: None
Power: Battery
Weight: 0.64 Grams
Buy Zspeed Stylus Pen on Amazon
Creatives may use this Meko Universal Stylus as one of the most affordable Apple pencil alternatives that they may use for day-to-day work.
The best Apple pencil alternative for beginners.
However, it doesn’t have the advanced features that other styluses have, so it is best for beginners.
Aside from the fact that it is not ideal for professional artists, it will be a perfect choice for anyone who is looking for a basic digital pen.
The Meko Universal is intentionally designed for sketching or taking down notes since it is very portable and comfortable to use.
Its upgraded clear disc is a bit thinner than the previous version, which allows you to see through the screen exactly where you are pointing.
Because of that characteristic, it can give you more accurate writing and drawing experience.
The Meko Universal Stylus is a great choice for beginners who are looking for an easy-to-use Apple pencil alternative.
Size: 15.99 x 8.99 x 1 inches
Connectivity: Wireless
Pressure Sensitivity: None
Power: Rechargeable
Weight: 0.64 Grams
Buy Meko Universal Stylus on Amazon
The Adonit Mark Stylus Pen is one of the Apple pencil alternatives that you can buy for under $10.00.
The most budget-friendly alternative to the Apple pencil.
It is the best and most affordable alternative to the Apple pencil that is built to last.
This stylus is perfect for creatives that want to practice their skills in making drawings, sketches, and other art.
It is compatible with all touchscreen devices and doesn’t require any battery.
Adonit Mark features a triangular, anti-roll design crafted with anodized aluminum, so it stays put and looks good doing it.
The triangular shape also feels natural in your hand, with the satisfying weight of a quality writing instrument.
The Adonit Mark Stylus Pen is the best choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly Apple pencil alternative.
Size: 5.5 x 0.38 x 0.38 inches
Connectivity: Wireless
Pressure Sensitivity: 2,048 levels
Power: Rechargeable
Weight: 0.05 Pounds
Buy Adonit Mark Stylus Pen on Amazon
The Wacom Bamboo Fineline Stylus is the only premium stylus that can compete with the precision of the Apple Pencil.
The best Apple pen alternative for iPads.
Fineline's precision tip excels in writing, drawing, and sketching features.
Wacom is known for its excellent graphic tablets and styluses, so it's no surprise that the Bamboo Fineline is a fantastic iPad pen.
It's attractive and cheap, and the brushed gold finish gives it a distinct appearance.
The Bamboo Fineline is also a good, precise stylus with decent app compatibility that feels great in the hand.
Generally, it's an excellent complement to the iPad Air (4th gen.) and the new iPad Pro.
If you are looking for the best Apple pen alternative for the iPad, the Wacom Bamboo Fineline Stylus is the best pick.
Size: 2.81 x 1 x 7.1 inches
Connectivity: Wireless
Power: Rechargeable
Weight: 19 grams
Buy Wacom Bamboo Fineline Stylus on Amazon
The FCOOL Stylus Pen is one of the best non-Apple products and works perfectly with a variety of iPad versions.
The best non-Apple stylus pen for Apple products.
It has amazing features like magnetic absorption, pixel-perfect precision, touch control, palm rejection, among others.
The FCOOL Stylus pen is a great Apple pencil alternative that comes with a variety of tips.
It detects your pressure very well and adapts to drawing and writing.
This Apple pencil can be used to write, paint, take notes, and record with great pixel precision.
It allows you to freely and comfortably rest your hand on the screen without causing unwanted strokes.
If you are looking for the best non-Apple pen for Apple products, the FCOOL Stylus Pen is a great option.
Size: 0.35 x 6.57 inches
Connectivity: Wireless
Power: Rechargeable
Weight: 2.08 ounces
Buy FCOOL Stylus Pen on Amazon
Drawing using an iPad or tablet and a digital pen is a new trend for creatives that are engaged in drawing and the arts.
For iPad users, using an Apple pencil is a great choice since it is the best stylus for Apple devices.
However, as a creative myself, I receive this question often:
What can we use instead of the Apple Pencil?
Fortunately, iPads and other Apple touchscreen products also support other stylus pen brands.
That’s why if you’re wondering if you can use another digital pen on your iPad, the answer is yes.
Actually, the Logitech Crayon Pencil is my favorite, since it is the best overall Apple pencil alternative available today.
But you can also go with the JamJake K10 Pen if you want the best alternative that looks like the actual Apple pencil.
However, if you’re on a budget, you can choose between the Adonit Mark Stylus Pen and the Meko Universal Stylus, which are both affordable and perfect for beginners.
And that ends my list of the best Apple pencil alternatives in 2022.
I hope you got an idea of which of them is perfect for your specific needs as a graphic designer and creative in general.
As an artist and designer, which do you think is the best Apple pencil alternative for drawing and art?—Leave a comment below.
