There are two main generations of Apple Pencil, and each charges differently. For the 1st generation Apple Pencil :
- Remove the cap at the end to reveal the Lightning connector.
- Plug the Lightning connector directly into the Lightning port on your iPad.
- Alternatively, use the small Lightning adapter that came with the Pencil to connect it to a Lightning cable and charge from a power source.
- It charges quickly, taking about 30 minutes for a full charge.
For the 2nd generation Apple Pencil and Apple Pencil Pro :
- They charge wirelessly by magnetically attaching the flat side of the Pencil to the right edge of a compatible iPad.
- Charging begins automatically once attached, and you will see a battery status on your iPad.
- Make sure the Pencil is properly aligned with the magnetic charging strip on the iPad.
You can check the battery level of both generations in the Batteries widget on your iPad. First-generation Apple Pencils do not have any charging lights, so rely on the iPad display for charge status. This method makes charging simple and convenient depending on which Apple Pencil generation you have.