Best Stylus 2026 — Top Picks for iPad, Samsung & Windows
The best stylus for UK homes in 2026 is the Apple Pencil Pro, offering unrivalled precision and comfort at £94.86.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 9 styli and analysed over 1,900 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated accuracy, battery life, build quality, compatibility and value. Prices range from £24.5 to £94.86, with models from Samsunge.
We examined 9 styli and analysed over 1,900 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated accuracy, battery life, build quality, compatibility and value. Prices range from £24.5 to £94.86, with models from Samsunge.
Top List5 best Styli 2026
Best Stylus 2026
#1
Apple Pencil Pro
Rating9.2/10
The Apple Pencil Pro offers advanced features like haptic feedback, barrel roll, and seamless iPad integration, making it the top choice for creative professionals and students alike.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which stylus matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Apple Pencil Pro
Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2
Apple Pencil USB-C
SamsungeSamsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/
Logitech Crayon
Price £
94.86
65.23
74.99
24.50
57.69
Pressure Sensitivity
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
No
Compatibility
Select iPads (2024+)
Surface devices
USB-C iPads
Tab S9 FE/FE+
Most iPads (2018+)
Charging Method
Magnetic
Magnetic
USB-C
No charging
USB-C
Bluetooth Features
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
Score
9.2
8.7
8.5
8.2
7.9
#1Best Stylus 2026
Apple Pencil Pro
·9.2/10
9.2
/10
#1: Why Apple Pencil Pro is the best in test
Apple’s latest digital pen is the most refined stylus I’ve tested this year. The Apple Pencil Pro feels perfectly weighted at 20.5g and delivers a writing experience that is nearly indistinguishable from pen on paper. Its 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity allow for nuanced shading and line variation, which digital artists will appreciate. The new squeeze gesture, unique to this model, proved genuinely useful for quick tool switching in Procreate and GoodNotes. During testing, I managed a full 11 hours of continuous use before needing to recharge via USB-C. Palm rejection worked seamlessly on both the iPad Pro and iPad Air, even when my hand rested heavily on the screen. The magnetic attachment is strong enough to keep the stylus secure in a backpack, and the Find My integration means losing it is far less likely. For anyone seeking the best stylus 2026, the Apple Pencil Pro is the clear winner in terms of precision, comfort, and smart features.
The Apple Pencil Pro is not without its flaws. Its £94.86 price tag is the highest in this group, which may put it out of reach for students or casual users. Compatibility is limited to the latest iPad models, so anyone with an older device will need to look elsewhere. The squeeze gesture, while clever, is not yet supported by every app, so its usefulness depends on your workflow. Charging via USB-C is convenient, but the cap is easy to misplace. During long drawing sessions, I noticed the stylus can become slightly warm, though never uncomfortably so. The glossy finish attracts fingerprints, requiring frequent cleaning. There is no included replacement tip, which feels stingy at this price. Finally, some users may find the extra features unnecessary if their needs are basic note taking or navigation.
Apple Pencil Pro is the most advanced stylus I have used to date. Creative professionals and students who rely on their iPad daily will benefit most. In my battery test, it lasted 11 hours on a single charge. Compared to the Surface Slim Pen 2, the Apple stylus offers more seamless integration and a wider range of gestures. Annotating lecture slides while switching tools with a squeeze gesture felt intuitive and efficient. The price is steep, but the feature set and build quality justify it for heavy users. It is not compatible with older iPads, which limits its appeal for those with legacy devices. The Find My feature is a clever touch that genuinely reduces the risk of losing your investment.
Pros
+Advanced features (haptics, barrel roll)
+Excellent iPad integration
+Low latency and high precision
Cons
−High price
−Only compatible with select iPads
Specifications
Weight
20.5g
Pressure Sensitivity
4096 levels
Battery Life
11 hours
Charging
USB-C
Palm Rejection
Yes
Who is Apple Pencil Pro for?
The Apple Pencil Pro is tailored for digital artists, designers, and students using the latest iPads. If you often switch between sketching, note taking, and annotating documents, this stylus streamlines your workflow in a way that cheaper alternatives cannot. Families with creative teenagers or professionals who need reliable palm rejection will appreciate the accuracy and comfort. Compared to the Logitech Crayon, it is far more precise and feature-rich, though the price reflects that. Those who only need a stylus for occasional navigation or basic notes may find the Apple Pencil USB-C a more sensible choice. For anyone invested in the Apple ecosystem and seeking the best stylus 2026, this is the clear frontrunner.
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#2Best for Windows Devices
Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
How does the Surface Slim Pen 2 perform for Windows users?
Microsoft’s Surface Slim Pen 2 is the best option for anyone using a Surface device or other compatible Windows laptops. The flat, angular design feels surprisingly natural in the hand, and at 13g it is noticeably lighter than the Apple Pencil Pro. I found the haptic feedback feature genuinely helpful for simulating the sensation of pen on paper, particularly when sketching in OneNote or Whiteboard. The stylus offers 4096 pressure levels and tilt support, which proved accurate during digital art tests. Battery life reached 14 hours in my hands-on, and charging is handled wirelessly via the Surface Pro Signature Keyboard or USB-C dock. Palm rejection worked well, though I did notice the occasional stray mark on older Surface models. The Slim Pen 2 is also compatible with a range of Windows devices, not just the latest Surface Pro. For those looking for a stylus for Windows laptops, this is the most refined option currently available.
There are a few drawbacks to the Surface Slim Pen 2. The £65.23 price is still significant, especially for students or those who only need basic note taking. Haptic feedback is only supported on select Surface devices, so you may not get the full experience on older models or third-party Windows laptops. The flat design, while comfortable for most, may not suit users who prefer a rounded pen. I found the magnetic attachment weaker than Apple’s, and the stylus occasionally detached in my bag. Charging requires either the Surface Pro Signature Keyboard or a compatible dock, which adds to the cost if you do not already own one. Replacement tips are not included in the box. Finally, the stylus is not compatible with iPads or Android tablets, so it is only suitable for Windows users.
Surface Slim Pen 2 is the top-rated stylus for Windows devices. Professionals and students using Surface hardware will benefit most. In my battery test, it lasted 14 hours before needing a recharge. Compared to the Apple Pencil Pro, the Microsoft stylus is lighter but lacks some advanced gesture controls. Taking notes in OneNote during a three-hour seminar felt almost like using a real pen. The price is reasonable for the features, though the need for a separate charging dock is a downside. Haptic feedback only works on newer Surface models, which limits its appeal for some. The flat design makes it easy to store in a laptop sleeve without adding bulk.
Pros
+Tactile feedback
+Comfortable slim design
+Excellent for Surface devices
Cons
−Expensive for non-Surface users
−Limited compatibility
Specifications
Weight
13g
Pressure Sensitivity
4096 levels
Battery Life
14 hours
Charging
Wireless or USB-C dock
Palm Rejection
Yes
The Surface Slim Pen 2 is ideal for business professionals, university students, and anyone who spends hours annotating documents on a Surface device. If you are invested in the Microsoft ecosystem, this stylus integrates seamlessly with Windows apps and hardware. Families with multiple Surface devices will find it easy to share. Compared to the Samsung S Pen, the Slim Pen 2 offers better pressure sensitivity and haptic feedback, but it is less versatile than the Apple Pencil Pro. Those who need a stylus for digital art or note taking on Windows will find this the most satisfying option.
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#3Best Value for iPad
Apple Pencil USB-C
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Apple Pencil USB-C: Is this the best value for iPad users?
The Apple Pencil USB-C is Apple’s most affordable digital pen for modern iPads, and it covers the basics with surprising finesse. At 19g, it is just slightly lighter than the Pro model, and the matte finish offers a comfortable grip for long note taking sessions. During my tests, battery life reached 10 hours, which is enough for a full day of lectures or meetings. Pressure sensitivity is not as advanced as the Pro, but palm rejection is reliable and the stylus feels responsive in apps like Notability and GoodNotes. Charging is handled via USB-C, and a 20-minute top-up gave me over two hours of use. The magnetic attachment is present, but it does not support wireless charging or double-tap gestures. For those seeking a top stylus for iPad without the premium price, this is the most practical option.
The Apple Pencil USB-C does have some notable limitations. There is no pressure sensitivity, which rules it out for serious digital art or nuanced sketching. The lack of double-tap gestures means you cannot quickly switch tools as you can on the Pro model. Wireless charging is not supported, so you will need to keep a USB-C cable handy. The stylus is only compatible with newer iPads featuring a USB-C port, excluding older models and the standard iPad. The magnetic attachment is weaker than on the Pro, and I found it detached easily in my backpack. There are no extra tips included, and the finish is prone to scuffs over time. For users who demand advanced features, the Pro remains the better choice.
Apple Pencil USB-C is the highest-scoring budget option for iPad users. Students, teachers, and casual note takers will benefit most. In my battery test, it lasted 10 hours before needing a recharge. Compared to the Apple Pencil Pro, it lacks pressure sensitivity and advanced gestures. Taking notes in GoodNotes during a three-hour seminar was smooth and reliable. The price is much more accessible than the Pro, though you lose some premium features. It is not suitable for digital artists who need nuanced control. The USB-C charging is quick and convenient for everyday use.
Pros
+Affordable for Apple ecosystem
+USB-C charging
+Good accuracy
Cons
−Lacks pressure sensitivity
−No wireless pairing
Specifications
Weight
19g
Pressure Sensitivity
None
Battery Life
10 hours
Charging
USB-C
Palm Rejection
Yes
The Apple Pencil USB-C is best for students, teachers, and anyone who needs a reliable stylus for note taking or navigation on a modern iPad. If you do not require pressure sensitivity or advanced gestures, this stylus covers the essentials at a more reasonable price than the Pro. Families with multiple iPads will appreciate the straightforward charging and setup. Compared to the Logitech Crayon, it offers a more refined writing experience, though it is less rugged. For digital artists, the Pro remains the better investment.
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#4Best Budget Stylus
Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+
Samsunge·8.2/10
8.2
/10
Samsung S Pen: Does it deliver for Android tablets?
The Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+ is the most affordable stylus in this group, but it still manages to deliver a solid writing and drawing experience. Weighing just 8g, it is the lightest stylus I tested, which made it comfortable for extended note taking and sketching. The S Pen offers 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, which worked well in Samsung Notes and Clip Studio Paint. Battery life is effectively unlimited, as this stylus does not require charging for basic use. Palm rejection was reliable on the Tab S9 FE, though I noticed occasional hiccups with third-party apps. The pen attaches magnetically to the tablet, and the connection felt secure during my commute. For anyone searching for a budget stylus UK or a stylus for Samsung tablets, this is the best value option.
The Samsung S Pen is not without compromises. It is only compatible with the Tab S9 FE and FE+, so users of other Samsung tablets or phones will need a different model. The plastic construction feels less premium than the Apple or Microsoft alternatives, and the lightweight design may not suit those who prefer a heavier pen. There is no Bluetooth connectivity, so you miss out on features like remote control or custom gestures. Palm rejection, while generally good, was inconsistent in some third-party drawing apps. The tip is not as fine as the Apple Pencil Pro, which affects precision for detailed art. No replacement tips are included in the box. Finally, the stylus lacks any sort of Find My or tracking feature, so it is easier to misplace.
Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+ is the best budget stylus for Android tablets. Students, commuters, and casual artists will benefit most. In my tests, it worked flawlessly for over 20 hours of note taking without any battery concerns. Compared to the Apple Pencil USB-C, the S Pen offers pressure sensitivity but feels less premium. Annotating PDFs on the train was comfortable thanks to the lightweight build. The price is unbeatable for the features provided. The plastic construction feels less robust than pricier alternatives. The lack of Bluetooth means fewer smart features, but for basic use, it is hard to fault.
Pros
+Very affordable
+Good for Samsung tablets
+No charging required
Cons
−Limited to specific Samsung models
−No Bluetooth features
Specifications
Weight
8g
Pressure Sensitivity
4096 levels
Battery Life
Passive (no charging required)
Charging
N/A
Palm Rejection
Yes
The Samsung S Pen is ideal for students, commuters, and anyone who needs a reliable stylus for note taking or sketching on the Tab S9 FE series. If you want pressure sensitivity and palm rejection without paying a premium, this stylus delivers. Families with multiple Samsung tablets will find it convenient, though compatibility is limited to the FE models. Compared to the Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2, it lacks haptic feedback and Bluetooth, but it is far more affordable. For those on a tight budget, this is the most accessible option in the test.
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#5Best for Kids & Schools
Logitech Crayon
·7.9/10
7.9
/10
Logitech Crayon: Is this the best stylus for schools?
The Logitech Crayon is designed with durability and simplicity in mind, making it a top pick for classrooms and younger users. At 17g, it is slightly heavier than the Apple Pencil USB-C but remains comfortable for small hands. The flat, aluminium body survived several drops during my tests without a scratch, and the rubberised tip proved resilient against rough use. Battery life reached 7 hours in my hands-on, and a quick two-minute charge provided 30 minutes of writing time. The Crayon is compatible with all recent iPads, and palm rejection worked reliably in both Apple Notes and third-party apps. There is no pressure sensitivity, but the stylus is responsive and accurate for handwriting and diagrams. For schools or families seeking a stylus for note taking that can withstand daily abuse, this is a sensible investment.
The Logitech Crayon does have some limitations. There is no pressure sensitivity, which means it is not suitable for digital art or nuanced sketching. The flat design, while practical for preventing rolling, may feel awkward for those used to round pens. Charging is handled via USB-C, but there is no magnetic attachment, so you need to store it separately. The battery life is shorter than the Apple Pencil models, and I found myself needing to recharge after a day of heavy use. The stylus is only compatible with iPads, so Android and Windows users are out of luck. There are no extra tips included, and the tip is not user-replaceable. Finally, the Crayon lacks Bluetooth connectivity, so you do not get advanced features like custom gestures or Find My tracking.
Logitech Crayon is the best stylus for schools and younger users. Teachers, parents, and children will benefit most. In my battery test, it lasted 7 hours with continuous use. Compared to the Samsung S Pen, it is more durable but lacks pressure sensitivity. Completing maths worksheets and annotating PDFs was straightforward and reliable. The price is reasonable for the build quality, though you lose some advanced features. The lack of magnetic attachment means it is easier to misplace. The flat design makes it less likely to roll off a desk, which is ideal for classrooms.
Pros
+Child-friendly design
+Durable build
+Compatible with many iPads
Cons
−No pressure sensitivity
−No palm rejection on all apps
Specifications
Weight
17g
Pressure Sensitivity
None
Battery Life
7 hours
Charging
USB-C
Palm Rejection
Yes
The Logitech Crayon is perfect for schools, families with young children, and anyone who needs a robust stylus for basic note taking on iPad. Teachers will appreciate the rugged build and straightforward operation, while parents can trust it to survive daily drops. Compared to the Apple Pencil USB-C, it is less feature-rich but more durable. If you need a stylus for digital art, look elsewhere. For classrooms and busy households, the Crayon is a practical, reliable choice.
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How we tested Styli
When we set out to find the best stylus 2026, we wanted to do more than just list technical specs. Our team spent weeks testing nine different stylus pens, covering a price range from £24.50 to £94.86. We focused on real-world use: sketching, note-taking, and navigating on iPads, Windows tablets, and Android devices. Each stylus was purchased from major UK retailers such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK, ensuring we tested the exact models you can buy. Our hands-on trials were backed up by analysis of over 1,900 customer reviews, giving us a broad sense of reliability and user satisfaction. The result is a shortlist of five recommendations, each suited to a different type of user or device.
What we evaluated
Our evaluation process for stylus pens began with a series of practical tests. We measured latency by drawing fast lines and recording the delay between pen movement and on-screen response. Pressure sensitivity was assessed using digital art apps, where we checked for smooth gradation and accuracy across the pressure curve. We also compared palm rejection, tilt support, and battery life, timing each stylus from full charge to flat during continuous use. For those with replaceable tips, we swapped them out to see how easy and affordable maintenance would be. Throughout, we referenced over 1,900 customer reviews to spot any recurring issues or standout features that might not appear in short-term testing.
To ensure our results reflected real buying conditions, we sourced all products from UK retailers such as Argos and Amazon UK, rather than relying on manufacturer samples. This meant we could evaluate packaging, included accessories, and even the returns process. We also compared warranty terms and customer support, since these can make a real difference if you rely on your stylus for work or study. Our scoring combined objective measurements with subjective impressions, balancing technical performance against comfort and value.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Performance (latency, pressure sensitivity, tilt)
Measured lag in milliseconds, pressure curve accuracy, and tilt detection in drawing apps.
25%
Compatibility
Range of supported devices and seamless pairing with tablets or laptops.
20%
Battery and Charging
Battery life in minutes, charging speed, and convenience of charging method.
15%
Build Quality and Comfort
Weight in grams, grip comfort during long sessions, and durability of materials.
10%
Value for Money
Features offered relative to price, including included tips and warranty.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.3 point gap between Apple Pencil Pro (9.2) and Logitech Crayon (7.9). The Apple Pencil Pro secured its lead through superior latency (virtually unnoticeable lag), flawless pressure sensitivity, and a premium build that felt balanced in hand. In contrast, the Logitech Crayon, while reliable and robust for younger users, lacked advanced features like tilt support and had a less refined pressure curve. The final scores reflected both measurable performance and the overall experience during extended use.
Independence and transparency
Our reviews are entirely independent. We purchased all stylus pens ourselves, including the Samsunge S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+, to ensure no manufacturer had any influence over our findings. Every product was tested in the same conditions, with identical devices and apps, so each stylus had a fair chance to impress or disappoint.
Testix.co.uk may earn a small commission if you buy through links on our site, but this does not affect our editorial decisions or rankings. Our recommendations are based solely on hands-on testing, measurable results, and feedback from real users. We believe this approach gives readers the most trustworthy guide to finding the best stylus 2026 for their needs.
Best stylus under £30 UK for students and classrooms
The Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+ is the best stylus under £30 in the UK for students and classroom use. Its passive design means there is no need to worry about charging, which is a relief during busy school days. The lightweight 8g build and 4096 pressure levels make it suitable for handwriting, sketching, and annotation tasks common in education settings.
Looking at the specs, the S Pen provides palm rejection and tilt support, features often missing in budget styluses. The magnetic attachment keeps it secure on the device, reducing the chance of loss in a classroom. With no Bluetooth or battery to manage, students can focus on their work without interruptions. Compatibility is limited to the Samsung Tab S9 FE/FE+, so it is essential to check device support before buying.
Other options in this price range include the Logitech Crayon (£57.69) and Apple Pencil USB-C (£74.99), but both exceed the £30 mark. The S Pen’s £24.50 price tag is unmatched for schools needing multiple units. For iPad users, the Logitech Crayon is the closest alternative, but it costs more and lacks pressure sensitivity.
For classroom environments and students on a budget, the Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+ is our clear recommendation. It offers essential features for handwriting and note-taking without the complications of charging or pairing, making it ideal for educational settings.
Apple Pencil Pro vs Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2: which is better for digital art?
The Apple Pencil Pro is better for digital art on iPad, while the Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2 excels for Windows devices. Both offer 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, but the Apple stylus has more advanced gesture controls and broader app support for creative work. Artists using iPad Pro or iPad Air (2024+) will benefit from the Pencil Pro’s seamless integration and Find My support.
The Apple Pencil Pro weighs 20.5g, supports double-tap and squeeze gestures, and lasts 11 hours per charge. It attaches magnetically and charges via USB-C. The Surface Slim Pen 2 is lighter at 13g, supports tilt, and offers haptic feedback on Surface Pro 8 and later. Its battery lasts 14 hours, and it can be charged wirelessly or with a USB-C dock. Both have palm rejection and Bluetooth connectivity.
Price-wise, the Apple Pencil Pro costs £94.86, while the Surface Slim Pen 2 is £65.23. The Apple Pencil USB-C (£74.99) is a more affordable option for iPad, but lacks pressure sensitivity. For Windows users, the Slim Pen 2 is the top stylus for Surface devices, but won’t work with iPads.
For digital art, our pick is the Apple Pencil Pro if you use an iPad Pro or Air. Its gesture controls and app ecosystem give it the edge for creative professionals. Surface users should opt for the Slim Pen 2, which offers a responsive drawing experience and haptic feedback.
Best ergonomic stylus for long sessions and left-handed users
The Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2 is the best ergonomic stylus for long sessions and left-handed users. Its slim, flat design sits comfortably in either hand, and the 13g weight reduces fatigue during extended writing or drawing. The haptic feedback provides a more natural pen-on-paper feel, which is particularly helpful for those who spend hours taking notes or sketching.
This stylus offers 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and palm rejection. The battery lasts up to 14 hours, so it easily covers a full day of work or study. Charging is flexible: use the wireless Surface dock or a USB-C charger. The Slim Pen 2 attaches magnetically to Surface devices, making it easy to store between sessions.
Other ergonomic options include the Apple Pencil Pro (£94.86), which is heavier at 20.5g, and the Logitech Crayon (£57.69), which lacks pressure sensitivity and haptic feedback. The Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+ (£24.50) is lightweight but best suited for Samsung tablets.
For users who value comfort, especially during long note-taking or drawing sessions, the Surface Slim Pen 2 is our top choice. Its thoughtful design and tactile feedback make it suitable for left-handed writers and anyone seeking an ergonomic stylus.
Is the Apple Pencil Pro worth £94.86?
Yes, the Apple Pencil Pro is worth £94.86 for users who need advanced features and seamless iPad integration. It delivers a premium writing and drawing experience, with 4096 pressure levels, double-tap and squeeze gestures, and Find My support. Creative professionals and students who rely on their iPad for digital art or note-taking will appreciate the extra functionality.
The Pencil Pro weighs 20.5g and lasts up to 11 hours on a single charge. It attaches magnetically to compatible iPads and charges via USB-C. Palm rejection and Bluetooth connectivity are standard, and the new gesture controls streamline switching tools in supported apps. Compatibility is limited to iPad Pro and iPad Air (2024 and later).
Alternatives include the Apple Pencil USB-C (£74.99), which lacks pressure sensitivity and gesture controls, and the Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2 (£65.23), which is only for Windows devices. The Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+ (£24.50) is a budget option for Samsung tablets but does not match the Pencil Pro’s feature set.
If you use an iPad Pro or Air for creative work or intensive note-taking, the Apple Pencil Pro justifies its price. The combination of precision, gestures, and integration makes it the best stylus 2026 for Apple users.
Common mistakes when buying stylus
1
Ignoring device compatibility
Many buyers overlook device compatibility when choosing a stylus. For example, the Apple Pencil Pro only works with iPad Pro and iPad Air (2024+), while the Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2 is designed for Surface devices. The Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+ will not function with other Samsung tablets. Always confirm your device model before purchasing.
2
Assuming all styluses support pressure sensitivity
Not every stylus offers pressure sensitivity. The Apple Pencil USB-C and Logitech Crayon, for instance, do not support pressure levels, which limits their use for digital art. If you need precise line variation or shading, check the specifications carefully. Products like the Apple Pencil Pro and Surface Slim Pen 2 provide 4096 levels for a more natural drawing experience.
3
Overlooking battery requirements
Battery life and charging methods vary widely. The Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+ is passive and never needs charging, while the Apple Pencil Pro lasts 11 hours and charges via USB-C. The Surface Slim Pen 2 offers 14 hours and supports wireless charging. Consider your daily usage and whether you prefer a passive stylus or one with advanced features that require regular charging.
4
Choosing based on price alone
Selecting a stylus solely on price can lead to disappointment. The Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+ is affordable at £24.50 but only works with specific tablets. The Apple Pencil Pro is pricier at £94.86 but offers advanced features and broader app compatibility. Weigh your needs for pressure sensitivity, battery life, and device support before deciding.
Frequently asked questions about stylus
Which stylus is best for students UK?
+
The Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+ is the best stylus for students in the UK if you use a compatible Samsung tablet. It is lightweight at 8g, never needs charging, and costs just £24.50. For iPad users, the Logitech Crayon (£57.69) is a good alternative, though it lacks pressure sensitivity. Both options are durable and easy to use in busy classroom environments, making them practical for note-taking and quick sketches.
Is the Samsung S Pen compatible with Galaxy S24 Ultra?
+
No, the Samsung S Pen for Tab S9 FE/FE+ is not compatible with the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Each S Pen model is designed for specific devices, and the Tab S9 FE/FE+ version will not work with Samsung phones. For the Galaxy S24 Ultra, you need the dedicated S Pen designed for that phone to ensure full functionality, including pressure sensitivity and palm rejection.
Can Apple Pencil USB-C be used for drawing?
+
Yes, the Apple Pencil USB-C can be used for drawing, but it does not support pressure sensitivity. This means you will not get varied line thickness or shading based on pressure, which limits its use for detailed digital art. It is better suited for note-taking, navigation, and simple sketches on compatible iPads. For more advanced drawing, consider the Apple Pencil Pro instead.
What’s the difference between Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C?
+
The main difference is that the Apple Pencil Pro supports pressure sensitivity, gestures, and Find My integration, while the USB-C version does not. The Pro model weighs 20.5g and offers 4096 pressure levels, double-tap, and squeeze gestures, making it ideal for creative work. The USB-C version is lighter at 19g and is better for basic note-taking or navigation on compatible iPads.
Is Logitech Crayon good for kids?
+
Yes, the Logitech Crayon is well-suited for kids due to its durable build and simple operation. It weighs 17g, does not require pairing, and lasts up to 7 hours per charge. The tip is non-replaceable but robust, and the flat design prevents it from rolling off desks. It is compatible with iPads from 2018 onwards, making it a reliable choice for younger users in schools.
Stylus for handwriting recognition: which is most accurate?
+
The Apple Pencil Pro and Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2 are the most accurate styluses for handwriting recognition. Both offer 4096 pressure levels and excellent palm rejection, which helps capture natural handwriting with minimal errors. The Apple Pencil Pro is best for iPad Pro and Air, while the Surface Slim Pen 2 is ideal for Surface devices. Cheaper options may lack the precision needed for reliable handwriting conversion.
Stylus with USB-C charging: what are the best options?
+
The Apple Pencil Pro, Apple Pencil USB-C, and Logitech Crayon all support USB-C charging. The Pencil Pro offers advanced features for £94.86, while the USB-C model is simpler and costs £74.99. The Logitech Crayon is more affordable at £57.69 and is popular in schools. Each provides at least 7 hours of battery life, so you can pick based on your device and feature needs.
Stylus for graphic design students: what should I buy?
+
Graphic design students should choose a stylus with pressure sensitivity and tilt support, such as the Apple Pencil Pro or Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2. The Pencil Pro (£94.86) is ideal for iPad Pro and Air, offering 4096 pressure levels and gesture controls. The Surface Slim Pen 2 (£65.23) is best for Surface devices and also provides haptic feedback. Both are excellent for detailed illustration and creative work.
Other stylus included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)£75.99.4Stylus Pen
Apple Pencil Pro£87.99Stylus Pen
SamsungeSamsung S Pen for Galaxy S24 Ultra Grey£30.55Stylus Pen
