Is first-generation Apple Pencil compatible with the 2018 iPad Pro?

We've entered a new iPad Pro era. Apple's latest professionally-oriented tablets are the first iOS product not to utilize a proprietary Apple connector. Instead of Lightning, which has been Apple's standard since 2012, the company has opted to use USB-C on the new iPad Pro models.

The biggest hurdle this presents for the first-generation Apple Pencil is simple: the Pencil pairs to the iPad Pro by connecting to the Lightning port. As these new iPads have USB-C instead of Lightning, the original Apple Pencil can't pair with a new iPad Pro.

In contrast to the original Pencil, the second-generation stylus connects to your iPad Pro wirelessly. The first time you attach the new Pencil to the new iPad Pro using the magnetic sides of each, the Pencil will automatically pair with the iPad.

This magnetic connection is also how the Pencil charges, and the Pencil will use those magnets to stick to the iPad Pro as you carry both around.

If you've decided to hang on to an older iPad Pro, get the 10.5-inch model from 2017 that's still around, or pick up this year's 9.7-inch iPad, know that the first-generation Apple Pencil is still the best stylus you can get for drawing or handwriting on your tablet.