Apple Pencils look nearly identical, but they are not interchangeable: each iPad only pairs with certain models. Buy the wrong one and it simply will not connect. For current iPads there are two choices: the Apple Pencil (USB-C) at $79 list price and the Apple Pencil Pro at $129. Both sell below list on eBay; today the USB-C Pencil is $49.98 and the Pro $89.99.
Which Pencil works with your iPad
| iPad | Apple Pencil Pro | Apple Pencil (USB-C) | 1st generation |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPad (A16) | No | Yes | Yes, with adapter |
| iPad Air (M4), 11" and 13" | Yes | Yes | No |
| iPad mini (A17 Pro) | Yes | Yes | No |
| iPad Pro (M5), 11" and 13" | Yes | Yes | No |
Have an older iPad? Find its model name under Settings, General, About, and check Apple's Apple Pencil compatibility page. Many older iPads with a USB-C port also work with the USB-C Pencil.
Prices right now
| Product | List price | Lowest new price now | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Pencil (USB-C) | $79 | $49.98 | See it on eBay |
| Apple Pencil Pro | $129 | $89.99 | See it on eBay |
Lowest price for a new, sealed unit from a US eBay seller with 98%+ positive feedback, shipping included, before sales tax. Prices checked 1 hour ago. As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.
Apple Pencil (USB-C) vs. Apple Pencil Pro
| Apple Pencil (USB-C) | Apple Pencil Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| List price | $79 | $129 |
| Pressure sensitivity | No | Yes |
| Tilt sensitivity | Yes | Yes |
| Squeeze, barrel roll, haptic feedback | No | Yes |
| Find My | No | Yes |
| Pairing and charging | USB-C cable | Magnetic, on the side of the iPad |
| Magnetic storage on the iPad | Yes | Yes |
Which one should you buy?
Apple Pencil (USB-C): for handwritten notes, annotating PDFs, signing documents and school work. You lose pressure sensitivity, which most note apps barely use, and you charge it with a cable now and then.
Apple Pencil Pro: for drawing, painting and design. Pressure sensitivity gives natural line weight, squeezing brings up a tool palette, rolling the pencil turns a brush shape, and haptic feedback confirms actions. If you lose things easily, Find My helps you locate it.
Buying an Apple Pencil on eBay
- Check the exact model in the title: "USB-C", "Pro", "2nd generation" and "1st generation" are different pencils. Our tracker matches each model separately.
- We only show listings marked as new from US sellers with at least 98% positive feedback. Look-alike third-party styluses are filtered out.
- Pay through eBay checkout so eBay's Money Back Guarantee applies.
Frequently asked questions
Which Apple Pencil works with the iPad (A16)?
The iPad (A16) works with Apple Pencil (USB-C) and with the first-generation Apple Pencil (which needs a USB-C adapter to pair and charge). It does not work with Apple Pencil Pro or the second-generation Apple Pencil.
Which Apple Pencil works with the iPad Air (M4) and iPad Pro (M5)?
Both work with Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C). They do not work with the first- or second-generation Apple Pencil.
Does the Apple Pencil (USB-C) have pressure sensitivity?
No. The USB-C Pencil has tilt sensitivity and pixel-perfect precision, which is enough for handwriting, notes and marking up documents, but not pressure sensitivity. For drawing with lines that get thicker as you press harder, you need Apple Pencil Pro (or the second generation on older iPads).
How does the Apple Pencil (USB-C) charge?
With a USB-C cable: slide back the cap and connect it to your iPad or a charger. It attaches to the side of the iPad with a magnet for storage, but does not charge or pair that way. Apple Pencil Pro pairs and charges magnetically on the side of the iPad.
Is Apple Pencil Pro worth the extra money?
For artists and people who draw a lot, yes: pressure sensitivity, the squeeze gesture, barrel roll and haptic feedback make a real difference. For taking notes and signing documents, the USB-C Pencil does the job for less.
Compatibility checked against Apple's Apple Pencil compatibility page and features against Apple's product pages on November 4, 2026. Found something out of date? Let us know.
