Tech / Technology

Apple Pencil USB-C hands-on review

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We got a chance to experience the Apple Pencil USB-C hands-on, and it was quite a ride.
Apple Pencil USB-C

The new Apple Pencil USB-C is the long-awaited refresh for the stylus and follows the iPhone 15‘s footsteps in acquiring a brand-spankin’-new port.

This is the first time since 2018 that the Apple Pencil has received an update, and with this new variant out on the market, I had a lot of questions. How does it differ from the second-generation Apple Pencil? Which iPads is it compatible with? Are there any benefits to using the Apple Pencil USB-C over any other model?

Like many of you, my mind was spinning with questions, but thanks to a recent hands-on experience with Apple Pencil USB-C, I’ve got some clarity about it now.

Apple Pencil USB-C with the iPad

I tried out the Apple Pencil USB-C with the 10th-gen iPad.
Credit: Apple

Which iPads does the new Apple Pencil USB-C support?

When I tried the Apple Pencil (USB-C) for the first time, I took it for a spin with the 10th-gen iPad, so that answers your question about at least one of the models the new stylus supports. But what about the other tablets?

Apple Pencil USB-C

With the new USB-C stylus, 10th-gen iPad owners have two Apple Pencils they can choose from.
Credit: Apple

For your information, the Apple Pencil (USB-C) is compatible with the following:

  • 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd to 6th gen)

  • 11-inch iPad Pro (1st to 4th gen)

  • iPad Air (4th and 5th gen)

  • iPad (10th gen)

  • iPad mini (6th gen)

Before the Apple Pencil (USB-C)’s debut, 10th-gen iPad users could only use the first-generation Apple Pencil. Now, with the new USB-C stylus, 10th-gen iPad owners have two Apple Pencils they can choose from. Win!

Why get the USB-C Apple Pencil when you can buy the wireless-charging Apple Pencil 2?

While wandering around social media, I noticed many folks questioning why one would opt for the USB-C Apple Pencil when its predecessor, the Apple Pencil 2, offers wireless charging.

The Apple Pencil USB-C has a specific target audience: budget-conscious users who simply want to take notes, make annotations, journal, and draft up digital plans. After all, the USB-C Apple Pencil is only $79. The second-gen Apple Pencil, on the other hand, will set you back $129.

Apple Pencil USB-C

The Apple Pencil USB-C made for a smooth write.
Credit: Apple

The Apple Pencil 2 gives you the luxury of charging the stylus by attaching it to the edge of a supported iPad, which is why it’s pricier.

And unlike the Apple Pencil USB-C, the Apple Pencil 2 has pressure sensitivity, making it ideal for creators who want to make digital masterpieces, calligraphy, and pro-level artwork. The Apple Pencil USB-C, on the other hand, is ideal for users — students, for example — who don’t need a sophisticated stylus.

Still, when I used the new Apple Pencil USB-C across several iPadOS apps, from Goodnotes to Animatic, I found the Apple Pencil to be as seamless as putting pen to paper. Hell, I’d argue that’s even smoother than that — like a figure skater gliding on ice — thanks to its tilt sensitivity and low latency.

Apple Pencil USB-C

For less than $80, it’s a good, affordable option.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Plus, it’s nice that the iPad I was using had excellent palm rejection, so I could comfortably sketch and draw without my hands getting in the way.

Yes, it’s more convenient to opt for the second-gen Apple Pencil, but the loss of that luxury nets you a more affordable Apple Pencil for less than $80. On the plus side, you can still magnetically attach the Apple Pencil USB-C to your iPad, but it won’t charge wirelessly.

How does the USB-C Apple Pencil’s port work?

If you remember, the first-gen Apple Pencil charges via a lighting cable. To access the port, you need to twist open the top cap, which was super easy to lose. Now, the new Apple Pencil USB-C has a sliding cap, which I kept playing with over and over again — it’s like the new fidget spinner.

Apple Pencil USB-C

You can magnetically attach the Apple Pencil USB-C to your iPad, but it won’t charge wirelessly.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

That cap isn’t going any damn where. So if you plan on gifting this Apple Pencil to a young whippersnapper, you needn’t worry about them losing the cap and running around with a headless stylus.

The European Union (EU) mandate requiring that all mobile phones, tablets, and cameras sold in the EU have USB-C ports likely played a part in this update, but it’s a welcome refresh for iPad owners who don’t want to splurge nearly $200 on an Apple pen.

Final thoughts

What was even more intriguing during my hands-on experience was how well apps like Animatic, an incredible platform that made me feel like a pro animator in seconds, worked seamlessly with the Apple Pencil. I thought it was pretty cool that I could upload my animated creations to Freeform, too.

Freeform iPad app and USB-C Apple Pencil

The USB-C Apple Pencil worked seamlessly with a variety of apps.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Goodnotes is another gem of an app, which has a new “Tidy Up” feature that lets you lasso your messily handwritten notes to organize them in a neater, more organized fashion. Any of you known for having awful handwriting should be using “Tidy Up” before subjecting others to your chicken scratch.

I look forward to experimenting with the Apple Pencil USB-C thoroughly. Stay tuned for the full review!

The Apple Pencil USB-C will be available some time in early November.


Apple Pencil 2nd gen

Credit: Amazon


Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)

$89 (down from $129)

Tech / Technology

Best Apple deal: iPhone accessories bundle for $50

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Save 50% on these Apple iPhone accessories: A case, power bank, USB-C wireless charger and adapter all for $50.
Apple accessories with iPhone

TL;DR: As of October 28, get this 5-Piece Apple Compatible Accessory Bundle for $49.99 — a 61% discount.

Apple enthusiasts may have differing opinions on whether the iPhone 15 is worth the splurge, but they can all likely agree that Apple’s gadgets are getting more expensive each year. If you’re here, you’re probably looking for more affordable alternatives to Apple-branded accessories and we have just the bundle for you.

For $49.99, you can get a MagSafe-compatible case, a 20W charging head, wireless charger, a 5,000mAh power bank, and a USB-C cable — normally $129.99. There are options available for the iPhone 13 all the way through to the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Keep your iPhone protected and charged

Let’s do an unboxing of everything included in this accessory bundle:

  • MagSafe-compatible case. The clear design is aesthetically pleasing and raised edges protect your screen and back cameras from drops. 

  • 20W Charging head with USB-C output. Power delivery technology could charge your phone battery up to 50% in as little as 30 minutes.

  • 15W Wireless charger with USB-C input. It works with 360º rotation and the cord can bend up to 60º.

  • 5,000mAh power bank that’s MagSafe-compatible. A LED indicator light displays remaining battery life.

  • USB-C to USB-C charging cable, compatible with iPhone 15 models and MacBooks.

No need to splurge on name-brand Apple accessories

Purchasing the name-brand version of each of these accessories would cost you hundreds. Instead, you’re getting them all here for what a clear case from Apple costs: $49.99. Completely accessorize your new iPhone 15, dress up your iPhone 13 or 14, or give the bundle as a thoughtful holiday gift this season.

Snatch this five-piece set of Apple-compatible accessories for $49.99 (reg. $129.99). Select the iPhone model between iPhone 13 and iPhone 15 Pro Max before adding it to your cart.

Prices subject to change.


A charger plugged into MacBook

Credit: Rochas Divine Mart


5-Piece Apple Compatible Accessory Bundle

$49.99 at the Mashable Shop

Tech / Technology

Best iPad Pro deal: Get the 6th gen iPad Pro for $109 off

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Get a 2021 iPad Pro (128 GB) for $989.99, which is $109 less than its usual price of $1,099, as of Oct. 27. That’s this iPad Pro’s lowest price ever.
iPad Pro on light blue background with action lines

SAVE $109.01: As of Oct. 27 get the 2022 Apple iPad Pro (128GB) at its lowest price yet at Amazon for $989.99. That’s a discount of 10%.


Apple iPad Pro (128 GB) on white background

Credit: Apple


2022 iPad Pro (128GB)

$989.99 at Amazon (save $100)

Black Friday may not be until mid-November, but we’re already seeing a slew of deals roll in ahead of time. You can save big right now on goodies like smartwatches and tablets, including the iPad Pro. If you’re an avid iOS user, especially if you picked up a new iPhone 15 or Apple Watch Series 9, there’s a lot to love about the iPad, and out of all of the current models, the 2022 iPad Pro is the newest one you can get right now, at least until Apple announces a whole new slate. It’s one of the most premium iPad experiences, so when it’s discounted, you should sit up and pay attention.

As of Oct. 27, the 2022 iPad Pro (128GB, 12.9-inch) is on sale at Amazon for $989.99. That’s $109.01 off its usual price of $1,199 and a savings of 10%. That’s the lowest price we’ve seen yet. Currently, this price only applies to the 128 GB silver model. However, the 256GB configuration is also on sale (in only silver as well) for $1,049.99, which is a discount of $149.01 and a savings of 12%.

SEE ALSO:

Power up your productivity with a 2021 Apple iPad at an all-time low price

This is the best iPad you can get right now, from its powerful M2 processor to its large 12.9-inch display. It’s the perfect companion for a lengthy commute and the best device for helping you wind down in bed at the end of a long day. Thanks to its support for the Apple Pencil, you can also use it to sketch, take notes, or mess about with your favorite apps with a stylus. Pair the iPad Pro with a Magic Keyboard and it suddenly becomes a great alternative to a MacBook Pro. There’s a long list of uses for this tablet, and it’s a great option for just about any user.

So whether you’ve had your eye on an iPad Pro for a while or just needed an excuse to get one, now’s your chance. Lock one in before the holidays are finally here.