Despite its plain name, the Apple Pencil has been a game changer. No longer are people just stuck using a stylus, now they can feel like they’re drawing right on their screen. But what if you’re not an Apple fan or don’t use Apple products or it’s just simply out of your budget?
If you fall into one of those three categories, we can understand how difficult it can be to find a stylus that’s as good as the Pencil without the huge cost so we dove into the internet and built our list of the 15 Best Alternatives to the Apple Pencil in 2021 so you can have the tools you need to make 2021 your year.
These Apple Pencil alternatives are perfect for programs like Procreate! See the best Procreate brushes here.
Let’s jump right in!
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3 Things to Consider before Buying a Apple Pencil Alternative
From a distance, almost every stylus that you see looks pretty much the same with a few exceptions regarding design. So, what things should you consider before buying one? Don’t worry, we have your cheat sheet right here.
Natural Feel
While a stylus is in no way an actual pencil, you still want it to feel good and comfortable in your hand each time you use it. An uncomfortable stylus can lead to finger or hand cramps or can make your hand feel tired after a short amount of time.
Friction
Creating images or jotting down notes shouldn’t feel like a chore. A good stylus will allow you to draw lines and form letters with ease and without lag. The perfect amount of friction between the stylus nib and the tablet surface will keep the stylus from dragging or skip from moving so slickly. You also don’t want a stylus that needs you to press too hard for it to register or one that won’t work with your screen protector.
Balance and weight
A stylus shouldn’t be too big or too small. It should be of medium height and is easy to handle so it doesn’t wobble in your hand. The overall weight should be evenly distributed throughout the stylus. A heavy stylus can cause hand fatigue and a lightweight stylus might cause you to lose control.
15 Best Apple Pencil Alternatives in 2021
Even though the Apple Pencil is probably the best stylus that someone can have, its price can be too high for someone on a budget to afford. Our list of the 15 Best Alternatives to the Apple Pencil keeps the quality high but the prices moderately affordable.
- Logitech Crayon – $67
- Moko Stylus – $30
- Slim Pro – $35
- Adonit Note+ – $47
- Meko Universal Stylus – $15
- Adonit Mark – $7
- Wacom Bamboo Fineline Stylus – $188
- Mixoo Capacitive Stylus Pen – $10
- Milemont Stylus Pen – $25
- AWAVO Stylus Pencil – $19
- Adonit Dash 3 – $29
- Elzo Stylus Pen – $10
- KSW KINGDO Rechargeable Stylus Pen – $29
- Adonit Jot Pro 3 – $17
- Xiron Stylus – $18
15 Best Alternatives to the Apple Pencil Compared
15 Best Apple Pencil Alternatives in 2021
Logitech Crayon
The best stylus overall (plus, it’s Apple-approved)
As the only Apple-affiliated stylus on our list, the Crayon from Logitech is a great, affordable option that works with the iPad and all of Apple’s apps. While it was originally only available for schools and educators, Logitech changed directions and made it available to everyone. The Crayon features palm rejection, tilt support, and an instant wireless connection. While the features that the Crayon comes with are nice, they aren’t groundbreaking but it is an affordable option and comes with a quality battery life of 7 hours.
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- No limits to what you can do. Works seamlessly with iPad Pro 12.9 Inch (3rd Gen), iPad Pro 11 inch, iPad (7th Gen), iPad (6th (Gen), iPad Air (3rd Gen), iPad Mini 5, iOS 12.2 and above, delivering...
- Write and draw naturally without fear of missing a single line or detail
- Go right ahead and rest your palm on the screen while you write. Palm Rejection technology lets you enjoy natural hand placement while using Logitech Crayon
- Need a thicker or thinner line, just tilt the smart tip adjusts line weight automatically
- Logitech Crayon connects to iPad instantly just turn on and draw. No complex device pairing or other delays required
Moko Stylus
The best all-day stylus
With an enhanced grip that makes it simple for drawing or noting documents, the two-in-one design of the Stylus from Moko provides you with the versatility to use it as both a pen and a stylus. Its versatility doesn’t end there as it’s compatible with the iPhone, smartphones, and numerous iterations of the iPad. The 1.5mm metal point delivers a natural writing or drawing experience. With a battery life of up to 8 hours and a charging time of just an hour, you won’t have to worry about running out of juice. With its aluminum design and cubed clip, you can easily store it in your pocket or tablet cover.
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- COMPATIBILITY - 100% Compatible with all touch screen tablets and smartphones, including iPhone X/8/8 Plus/7/7 Plus, All-New iPad Pro 11" / 12.9" 2020, iPad 9.7 2017, iPad Pro 9.7 Inch, iPad Pro 12.9...
- 2 IN 1 DESIGN - Precise 1.5mm fine metal point delivers a realistic pen-to-pad writing / drawing experience on tablets & smartphones. While rubber tip protects device from scratches, fingerprints or...
- NATURAL WRITING & DRAWING - Slim aluminum alloy body, fashion polish surface. Similar to the feel of holding a pen to paper, the stylus offers familiar comfort.
- RECHARGEABLE STYLUS - Up to 8 hours of continuous use after only one hour full charge via Micro USB cable(Included here). It will cut off power automatically after 30 minutes of no use.
- INTEGRATED CLIP - Made with high-quality anodized aluminum, the durable, gently curved clip allows for easily securing the stylus to your tablet cover or in a pocket for easy access.
Slim Pro
The best sketching stylus
When you’re an artist, using a stylus that provides you with a smooth experience not only for drawing but also for simple sketching as well is a must-have. The Slim Pro from letech+ is crafted with a precision tip with sensibility adjustment built-in to give you the most accurate experience whether you’re writing or drawing. A big bonus is that there is no setup necessary, just hit the power button and start. An innovative feature is with a simple twist of the stylus, you can adjust the strength of the signal. Lighter strokes use a weaker signal and heavier strokes require a strong signal. An included leather sleeve helps keep the stylus safe.
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- ADJUSTABLE TIP FOR SENSIBILITY：Made of durable POM material, the1.9mm fine point precision tip is built with a sensibility adjustment function which offers the most perfect and accurate writing and...
- COMPATIBLE WITH：iPad 1 2 3 4, iPad Mini 1 2 3 4, iPad Air 1 2, iPad Pro 9.7/12.9 (no screen protector or with screen protector of max 0.3mm thickness), iPhone 5/5S/5C, iPhone 6/6S Plus, iPhone 7/7...
- EASY TO USE：No software or pairing needed, simply switch on power button to use. Then twist the tip to adjust the desired signal strength - weak for lighter strokes and strong for heavier strokes.
- CARRYING POUCH, USB CHARGER AND RECHARGEABLE BATTERY INCLUDED：The PU leather stylus sleeve fits the pen, the USB charger, and the rechargeable battery. The pouch straps around the edge of your iPad,...
- UP TO 5-7 HOURS OF CONTINUOUS USE：Powered by rechargeable battery, up to 7 hours of use with AAAA Alkaline battery or up to 5 hours with Ni-MH AAAA 300mah battery (included). Great for long...
Adonit Note+
Best stylus for digital artists
A total game-changer for digital artists, the Note+ from Adonit has a look and feel reminiscent of the Apple Pencil. The stylus is loaded with features that aren’t found on many other Pencil alternatives including tilt sensitivity, palm-rejection technology, and 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity. The Note+ also comes with programmable shortcut buttons, a 10-hour battery life, a USB-C charging cable, and replaceable tips. While it’s not the best replacement for an Apple Pencil, it comes pretty close.
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- 【Pressure sensitivity】 Adonit note+ Plus supports 2048-levels pressure sensitivity Adonit Note+ is designed and compatible with iPad Air (3rd / 4th Generation), iPad mini (5th Generation), iPad...
- 【Programmable shortcut buttons】 Adonit note+ Plus features two configurable shortcut buttons allowing you to quickly access various features like undo redo or erase on your favorite Adonit...
- 【Natural palm Rejection】 Palm Rejection works with an extensive variety of apps No need to set up in your device or apps【 High accuracy and fluency】The ultra-fine 1 mm tip makes this iPad Pen...
- 【Natural tilt support】 you can tilt your Adonit note+ Plus against the screen to virtually create a ""shade"" Effect in a drawing with specific brushes for precise writing/drawing.
- 【Charge with USB-C connector】 you can charge while you write! A 5-minute quick charge provides 1 hour of battery life A full charge provides 10 straight hours of working time 【Industry Leading...
Meko Universal Stylus
A budget-friendly option to have on hand
While it’s compatible with the iPad, the Universal Stylus from Meko works on a variety of different devices and is a great stylus for taking notes during a meeting or sketching your latest designs. A tiny disc on the point of the stylus helps your markups be more precise and a rubber point moves across the surface of the device. A very comfortable stylus to hold and use, it also comes in different colors to fit each user’s style.
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![MEKO Universal Stylus,[2 in 1 Precision Series] Disc Stylus Touch Screen Pens for All Capacitive...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Qsv55CITL._SL160_.jpg)
[About The Stylus]: Length:5.5"(140mm); Pen tube diameter 0.35"(9mm); Disc diameter: 0.27" (6.8mm) including 2mm rubber point ; Fiber tip Diameter:0.24 (6mm); Weight: 24g -- Made from stainless...- [Precision]: The clear disc allows you to see exactly where your mark is being made and gives you the accurate point. Perfect for taking notes and drawing apps - 100% Compatible with all...
- [Replaceable Tip Feature]: Replacing can be done within a second without tool , Extend lifetime of the stylus
- [Package Included]: 2Pcs Stylus; 4 Pcs Replacement Disc Tip;2 Pcs Replacement Fiber Tip. To find extra replacement Disc tips, please search ASIN: B016X4QJWE on Amazon. Replacement Fiber Tip -...
[Note]: Though the Disc works just like a fine point stylus, the disc stylus is not fine point stylus. If you need a true FINE POINT Stylus, please search Asin: B07LG7DHXL on Amazon.
Adonit Mark
The most affordable alternative to the Apple Pencil
Thanks to its even weight distribution, the Mark from Adonit is a great alternative to the Apple Pencil. With its incredibly affordable price, the Mark from Adonit proves that you don’t need to spend a ton of money for a good stylus. With a smudge-free mesh tip, the Mark makes writing or drawing on your device’s surface smooth every time. Its affordable price may make some think that it’s not worth their time but those who give it a chance will walk away happy.
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- Looks as good as it feels
- Dependable mesh tip
- Styled with purpose
- Simplify your mobile life
Wacom Bamboo Fineline Stylus
Another great product from Wacom
Made specifically for writing, the Bamboo Fineline Stylus from Wacom may only have a pressure sensitivity of 1024 levels but that doesn’t mean that it can help you take notes during your next meeting. The Fineline is adequate if you’re doing some quick sketches or scribbling diagrams but it’s not meant for more detailed forms of digital artwork. It’s a great choice for taking notes with its nice design and simple twist mechanism to turn it on and off. While it has a battery life of around 15 hours, the Fineline comes with a single programmable shortcut button, charges via USB, and comes in four different colors.
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![Bamboo Duo Stylus + Pen for iPad (CS110K) [Old Version]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31YHO+hnLLL._SL160_.jpg)
- Exchangeable responsive smooth nib/ pen tip for best pen-on-screen feeling; Weight-balanced design to feel right in your hand
- Great experiences to use with iPad or iPhone, or Bamboo or most other tablets and mobile phones with a touch screen for sketching, drawing or writing
- Polished anodized-aluminum body and Soft-touch finish, offers an attractive look and enables a comfortable hold
- Soft rubber rings for a smooth fit of the cap on both tip ends
- Doubles as a ball-point Pen for writing capability on paper
Mixoo Capacitive Stylus Pen
The best stylus for writing
For many writers, using a stylus to write might feel a bit unnatural when compared to the classic pen and paper. However, with the Capacitive Stylus Pen from Mixoo, with a silicon disk and fiber tips, taking precise notes on either an iPad or other device is easy. A rubber grip with a light groove makes the stylus feel comfortable to hold in your hand as you use it. To add to its appeal, the stylus also comes with two replacement tips. The Capacitive Stylus Pen is a great option for anyone looking to do some writing.
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- 【Mixoo Disc Stylus Pens Feature】 The 2-in-1 touch screen pen is made from stainless steel and aluminum without plastic parts, provides a smooth pen-like writing experience for your touch screen...
- 【High Precision】Transparent disc allows you to see through on the screen of where exactly you are pointing at, provides much better flexibility and accuracy for your writing and drawing. Rubber...
- 【Universal Stylus】Compatible with iPad, iPhone, Android Tablets, Android Phones, Samsung Galaxy, E- readers, Smart phones and other capacitive touch screens devices.
- 【Package Includes】1 Mixoo stylus, 2 additional replacement disc tips, 1 replacement fiber mesh tip and 1 exquisite brand packing box. FIND MORE REPLACEMENT TIPS please search ASIN: B073GRC6FF,...
- 【Satisfaction Service】30 days money back for any dissatisfaction. Please search ASIN B07Z5Q5M9M to find our new product - Palm Rejection Gloves if you need it.
Milemont Stylus Pen
Best no-frills stylus
With its 10-hour battery life, the Stylus Pen from Milemont is a favorite amongst users, and it’s easy to see why. The Stylus comes with quick charging capabilities as well as a professional look and the design provides hours of comfort while you use it on your iPad or other devices. Not needing a Bluetooth connection to work is the stylus’ biggest benefit. Simply click the top button and you’re off and drawing. The combination of its simple and easy to use design make it a favorite of many.
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- [Ergonomic Design] Slim sleek and professional, it gives you a real pen feeling, a creative tool that is unmatched by other techniques to work on a tablet. Experience and enhance your capabilities on...
- [Precise Accuracy] With the integration of an ultra fine pen point within the stylus, it allows you to select small icons, click small alphabet and gives you the accurate selection. Writing, drawing...
- [Universal Compatibility] Our stylus has the latest capacitive technology ensuring our product is widely compatible with most touch screen products, including Apple iPads, iPhones, Samsung Tablets.
- [Rock and Roll] NO Bluetooth connection needed, the stylus is ready for immediate use and comes fully charged. Just unpack the packaging, turn on and begin creating.
- [Long Battery Life] With USB Charge port and built-in battery provides 10 hours active use and only 1-2 hours charging. With Smart power-saving function, the pen will automatically power off every 30...
AWAVO Stylus Pencil
A great combination of comfort and price
With compatibility for almost every recent iPad, the Stylus Pencil from AWAVO is a capacitive stylus that doesn’t require a Bluetooth connection to work and offers 24 hours of work time from a single charge. Similar in design to the Apple Pencil, the biggest difference that you’ll notice is the lack of pressure sensitivity which means that this stylus is better suited for scribbling and doodling than any serious artwork that requires fine line work. However, if you’re looking for a comfortable stylus at an affordable price, you can’t go wrong.
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- 【1.6MM FINE POINT STYLUS】: The plastic tip is made of POM material and is more friendly to your screen, protecting your screen from scratches. It's improved 1.6 mm POM plastic tip creates...
- 【ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT, EASY TO CARRY】: The stylus pen body is very light, about 12.5g, because it is based on ergonomic design, you will not feel tired when you use it for a long time. It has a...
- 【POWER-SAVING FUNCTION】: This capacitive pen has a built-in large-capacity USB rechargeable lithium battery that can be used for about 12 hours at a time. It can be used comfortably even for a...
- 【WIDE COMPATIBILITY】: The iPad stylus pen is compatible with IOS and Android devices such as iPad Pro、iPad Air、iPad Mini、iPhone XS、iPhone XS MAX、iPhone XR、iPhone as like apple pencil...
- 【WARM TIPS】: The package include: Stylus*1,USB Charge Cable*1, Pen Cap*1. We provide the most satisfactory service to our customers. We offer customers 24/7 online support, a 100% Money-Back...
Adonit Dash 3
The best simple stylus
A simple and affordable stylus that works on most iPads, the Dash 3 from Adonit is a somewhat bare-bones stylus that doesn’t feature pressure sensitivity, tilt, or any palm rejection features. Despite this, the stylus has an incredible 14-hour battery, fantastic build quality, and a paper-like drag tip. The Dash 3 doesn’t require any Bluetooth connection as it works like the Apple Pencil, with proprietary electrostatic technology, meaning lag or compatibility issues with apps are non-existent. If you’re looking for a basic but still high-quality stylus without breaking the bank, the Dash 3 from Adonit is a perfect option
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- 【Fine point】Dash 3 stylus pen improved PixelPoint tip creates a paper-like drag that's more precise and responsive than ever before. Great for the business showcase, drawing artist, journalist,...
- 【Click on】By clicking button once, the LED blue light will be on, and to turn off press the button again. Open any Note taking drawing or sketching app and begin without the need to connect...
- 【Carrying clip】Clip and carry Dash's thin,light, balanced, aluminum body with confidence. 【Universal Compatibility】 iPad, iPhone, iPod, Kindle, tablet, Galaxy and more from Apple, Android...
- 【Battery】Built-in battery for stylus pencil, can be charged using power bank, computer,USB charging head, while charging stylus pens show red led light and after completing charge turn in to...
- 【Recharge】Click Dash on for up to 14 hours of continuous use. Click Dash off and charge within 45 minutes. 【Industry Leading Warranty】 When you choose Adonit, you enjoy the reassurance that...
Elzo Stylus Pen
The best stylus pen combo
With a magnificent aluminum body, the Stylus Pen from Elzo is constructed from sensitive, conductive fiber which can provide you with a smooth touch and excellent precision in every stroke you make. Compatible with the iPad and the Microsoft Surface Pro, the versatility that the Stylus offers is second to none. Incredibly reactive, the stylus comes with four replaceable tips just in case you wear them out. Plus, Elzo provides consumers with an 18-month worry-free warranty plus lifetime support. All this and a super affordable price? Seems like a no-brainer to us.
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- Unique Design: Length: 6.1'' (155mm); Pen tip diameter: 0.24''(6mm); Weight: 15.8g. Slim waist with elegant line-sense, fashion design.
- Premium Made: Aluminum body and highly sensitive conductive fiber, offers you great precision and slide smoothly over the screen.
- Multifunction: For handwriting, drawings and game playing. 100% compatible with all touch screen cellphones and tablet devices.
- Package Included: 2pcs stylus pens, 4 extra replaceable small nanofiber tips included. Replacing can be done within a second without tool, extend the lifetime of the stylus pen.
- Lifetime Support: Full 18 months Worry-Free warranty with lifetime support! 24 hours customer service support, just purchase and enjoy this superior product with confidence and risk free!
KSW KINGDO Rechargeable Stylus Pen
Best stylus for writing on the iPad
Another stylus that doesn’t require Bluetooth to work, the KINGDO Rechargeable Stylus Pen from KSW is a writer’s dream. Compatible with the iPad, the functionality is so straightforward that anyone can use it. Simply turn it on and away you go. Battery life of up to 10 hours helps keep you working throughout the day and at night, a micro USB will have you ready for tomorrow. Packaged with a carrying case, KSW also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 12-month replacement warranty.
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- WIDE COMPATIBILITY: Designed to be compatible with Apple iOS devices (iPad Pro iPad Mini iPad Air iPhone 11 iPhone XS iPhone X iPhone 8/8 Plus iPhone 7/7 Plus iPhone 6s/6s Plus iPhone 5/5s/5 SE iPhone...
- READY TO USE: No Drivers or Pairing Necessary.
- BUILT-IN BATTERY: 10 hours of use on a single charge. Charges through included Micro USB Cable.
- ULTRA-SENSITIVE: The smart stylus is incredibly precise. The 1.4mm fine tip gives you accurate control.
- CONTENTS: 1x Stylus Pen, 1x Micro USB Cable, 1x Pencil Holder, 1x User Manual. 30-Day Money Back Guarantee 12 Month Replacement Warranty.
Adonit Jot Pro 3
A great stylus for just about anything
The Jot Pro 3 from Adonit features an etched aluminum body that makes it appear more expensive than it is but don’t let the affordable price fool you this is a surprisingly good stylus. Available in four colors, the Jot Pro 3 comes with a magnetic cap for protection. While it’s not pressure-sensitive, it doesn’t need to be paired and there is no battery to charge which makes it a perfect pick up and go option. The only downside is that the little disc surrounding the nib can get annoying, especially if your display isn’t perfectly clean.
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Disc Stylus - Silver Available! Please Search
B081YYK8LN 
on Amazon. Simply accurate: The new precision disc Not only creates a precise point with the screen to write exactly where you...- Magnetic Cap : Quickly protect your stylus with the satisfying click of the new magnetic cap closure.
- Improved Textured Grip : Pro 3 features a textured grip etched onto the barrel of the stylus. This keeps the stylus right where you want it when sketching or taking notes.
- Clip to Carry : The solid aluminum stylus has a built in clip so you can keep track of it on the go.
- The most precise analog stylus for writing and drawing on any touchscreen.
Xiron Stylus
A great stylus in its own right
A very basic stylus, the stylus from Xiron is still a quality choice. Able to connect automatically without the need for Bluetooth, the stylus provides you with 12 hours of battery life, you can sketch into the wee hours of the morning. While it does lack palm rejection, the package does contain a glove you can wear to rest your hand on the display. Although it doesn’t feature and pressure sensitivity, many options on our list don’t either. With its affordable price and basic design, it can be a great everyday stylus or a very good backup.
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- 【Newest 2 in 1 Stylus】Brief stylish design with 7inch length,17g weight,gives you a comfortable experience for smoothly writing and drawing. 2 in 1 copper tip & mesh tip. 1.5mm Ultra fine copper...
- 【Easy to Use】One-button starts the digital pen. No Bluetooth or App connection required.When using at touch devices, our fine tip pen is precisely what you need.Hold the stylus with a slight...
- 【Stylus Pens for Touch-screen Devices】: Our rechargeable active stylus pens are specially design for iPad 2018/ Pro/ Mini/ Air, iPhone XS/XS MAX/ XR/ X/ 8/ 8 plus/ 7/ 7 plus/ 6S/ 6 plus, Samsung,...
- 【Long Working Time】 Built-in battery provides 8 Hours active use and 30 Days standby time for about 60 minutes charging.【IMPORTANT】Smart saver,auto shutdown after 30 minutes for safety....
- 【What you get】: This stylus pen has no palm rejection, thus we offers a glove to help reduce the friction the finger and the screen for better using experience.We offering our friendly 18 months...
15 Best Apple Pencil Alternatives in 2021
The Apple Pencil is without a doubt the best stylus that money can buy in 2021 but it can be expensive and not everyone can afford to shell out its asking price. Thankfully, there are options that consumers can consider and with our list of the 15 Best Alternatives to the Apple Pencil, we hope we’ve been able to give you some things to consider
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