S Pen vs Apple Pencil: Best Stylus Pick

Choosing between the S Pen vs Apple Pencil can be challenging, especially when both styluses offer impressive features for drawing, note-taking, and productivity. Each has its own strengths and works exclusively with specific devices, making your decision largely dependent on your tech ecosystem.

The S Pen comes included with Samsung Galaxy tablets and phones, while the Apple Pencil is designed for iPads. Both deliver precision and responsiveness, but they differ in key areas like pressure sensitivity, battery life, and overall user experience.

We'll compare these two popular styluses across features, performance, and value to help you determine which one best fits your needs and budget.

Keep your Apple Pencil safe and accessible with our iPad cases with built-in pencil holders.

S Pen vs Apple Pencil: Key Differences

These two differ most in pressure detection, battery life, and how comfortable they feel in your hand.

Pressure Sensitivity and Precision

Apple Pencil and Samsung S Pen both offer impressive pressure sensitivity for drawing or writing. Apple Pencil 2 offers high-resolution pressure sensing, so you can get those subtle line variations. Samsung matches that number—4,096 pressure levels as well.

Tilt recognition? It’s on both. Angle your stylus, and the devices adjust your strokes. The second-gen Apple Pencil senses tilt up to 60 degrees, and the S Pen isn’t far behind.

Latency is where you’ll notice a difference from cheap styluses. Apple Pencil 2 hits about 9 ms latency on new iPads. S Pen keeps up on Galaxy tablets, with barely any lag. Both give you pinpoint accuracy for detail work.

The S Pen relies on Wacom EMR technology, so it doesn’t need a battery to pick up pressure or tilt. The tablet screen generates a field that powers the pen’s functions.

Battery Life and Charging

The S Pen stands out because most models just don’t need charging. The EMR system draws power straight from your Samsung tablet’s screen. You can use it all day, every day, without thinking about batteries.

Apple Pencil 2 does need to be charged. You get about 12 hours per charge, and it charges magnetically on the side of your iPad. Super handy—you just snap it on and it’s ready to go.

The S Pen Pro is a bit different. It has a battery for Air Actions (remote gestures). You charge it with USB-C, and it runs for about 16 days before needing a top-up.

The original Apple Pencil charges with a Lightning port—you plug it right into your iPad. Not exactly elegant compared to the magnetic charger on the newer model.

Design and Comfort

Apple Pencil 2 is 6.53 inches long and 0.35 inches in diameter. The flat side keeps it from rolling and lets it snap onto your iPad. Its matte finish feels secure, even after hours of use. At 0.73 ounces, it’s nicely balanced.

The S Pen is shorter, lighter—about 5.8 inches and 0.5 ounces. If you like the feel of a regular pen, you might prefer this one. There’s a clicky button on the side for shortcuts.

No eraser on the back of either stylus. You’ll need to switch to eraser mode in your app. Apple Pencil 2 lets you double-tap the side to switch tools, which is pretty quick.

Pairing is simple. Apple Pencil 2 pairs automatically when you snap it onto your iPad. S Pen connects as soon as you pull it out of its slot or bring it near your Samsung tablet.

Samsung Stylus vs iPad Pen Performance

Apple Pencil nails detailed artwork, while Samsung S Pen is all about productivity and shortcuts. The differences show up when you try them for drawing, notes, or just doodling.

Digital Art and Illustration

Apple Pencil is the go-to for pro illustrators. The pressure curves feel more exact in apps like Procreate, Adobe Fresco, or Affinity Designer. Tilt support helps you shade naturally, so designers can get that pencil-like effect.

Samsung S Pen works well for sketching and concepts, but stroke stabilization isn’t quite as refined for complex art. EMR tech keeps lines smooth in most drawing apps, but artists who want micro-control usually stick with Apple Pencil. Both styluses handle palm rejection reliably.

iPadOS gives Apple Pencil an edge with creative apps. Procreate and Adobe Fresco, for example, are built to take full advantage of Apple’s pressure tech. S Pen works with Android drawing apps, but you won’t find as many pro-level options there.

Note-Taking and Productivity

Samsung S Pen really shines for productivity. Air Command gives you fast shortcuts like screen capture, smart select, and translation—no need to open separate apps. You can even jot down notes right on the lock screen by pulling out the S Pen.

One UI handwriting recognition converts notes to text quickly—often faster than iPadOS. The S Pen’s button makes switching tools a breeze during meetings or lectures. And since you never have to charge it for basic writing, it’s always ready to go.

Apple Pencil is great for handwriting with almost no lag. Scribble turns your handwriting into text anywhere you can type, but Samsung’s version seems a bit more consistent. Both styluses manage palm rejection well for long note-taking sessions.

Casual Drawing and Markup

Apple Pencil excels at markup. Annotate PDFs, sign docs, or sketch—everything feels precise. The magnetic attachment keeps it handy on your iPad.

Samsung S Pen is just convenient. Hover shows you exactly where your mark will land before you touch the screen. You can mark up screenshots, photos, or draw quick diagrams—and you don’t have to worry about charging it.

For everyday drawing and markup, both get the job done. It really comes down to whether you want Apple’s precision or Samsung’s built-in shortcuts and hover features.

Galaxy Pen or Apple Stylus: Price and Value

Apple Pencil runs $79 to $129, depending on the model. Samsung S Pen usually comes free with Galaxy tablets. There are budget picks like Logitech Crayon and Jamjake Stylus for $30–$70 too.

Cost Breakdown

Apple Pencil (1st gen) is $79 for older iPads. Apple Pencil (2nd gen) costs $129 and works with iPad Pro 11-inch and iPad Pro M4. Apple Pencil (USB-C) is $79 and fits the iPad 10th gen.

Samsung S Pen is included with most Galaxy Tab S models. If you lose one, replacements cost $30–$50. The S Pen Pro, which adds Bluetooth, goes for about $99.

Budget styluses are out there. Logitech Crayon is $69 and works with most iPads. Jamjake Stylus comes in at $25–$35 for basic models. Zagg Pro Stylus 2 is around $80, and Adonit Note+ 2 sits in the $50–$60 range.

Device Compatibility

Apple Pencil (2nd gen) works with iPad Pro M4, all iPad Pro 11-inch models, and iPad Air (4th gen and up). First-gen Apple Pencil supports older iPad Pro, iPad Air (3rd gen), and iPad mini. USB-C Apple Pencil pairs with iPad 10th gen and basic iPads.

Samsung S Pen fits Galaxy Tab S9, S8, S7, and some Galaxy Note phones. The same S Pen often works across several Samsung devices, which is pretty handy.

Logitech Crayon supports iPads from 2018 onward, including iPad 10th gen and iPad Pro 11-inch. Adonit Note+ works with most iPads and supports palm rejection. Cheaper styluses like Jamjake and Zagg Pro Stylus cover lots of models but might skip pressure sensitivity on some devices.

Value for Money

Samsung S Pen is tough to beat for value—it’s free with Galaxy tablets. You get battery-free use, hover, and Air Commands at no extra cost.

Apple Pencil gives you top-notch drawing performance, but you’ll need to buy it separately. If you’re an artist with an iPad Pro M4, the $129 is worth it for the extra control and low lag. For students with an iPad 10th gen, the $79 USB-C model is probably enough.

Logitech Crayon is a solid deal at $69 if you don’t need pressure sensitivity. Zagg Pro Stylus 2 and Adonit Note+ 2 mix price and features for general note-taking. Jamjake Stylus does the basics for under $35, but skips on extras like tilt or programmable buttons.

Upgrade your S Pen setup with a premium Galaxy Tab keyboard case for ultimate productivity.

Protect Your Stylus with Chesona Cases

Your stylus deserves some protection from drops, scratches, and daily abuse. Chesona makes cases that keep Apple Pencils and S Pens secure, and they throw in smart features like built-in holders.

Premium Cases for Apple Pencil Users

Chesona’s Apple Pencil cases come with holders built right into your iPad case. That way, your stylus stays close and doesn’t roll off the table every time you set it down.

They use thick materials to shield your Apple Pencil from bumps. The cases fit the pencil’s slim shape without making your iPad bulky. You can even charge the Apple Pencil while it’s in the case.

Some Chesona cases add pockets for extra tips or adapters. There are elastic loops or magnetic closures to keep your stylus locked in place when you’re on the move. This way, you’re less likely to lose or damage your stylus in your bag.

Durable Protection for S Pen Devices

Chesona also makes cases tailored for Samsung Galaxy tablets with S Pen support. These have slots shaped for the S Pen, so it fits snugly and stays put.

The cases shield your S Pen from scratches and keep it handy for quick notes. Built-in holders stop the S Pen from rolling off your desk. The materials stand up to daily use but don’t add much bulk.

Some Chesona cases for Galaxy Tabs include hand straps and kickstands, plus S Pen storage. The corners are reinforced for drop protection, and raised edges help keep your screen safe. These extras make Chesona cases a practical choice for anyone who uses their S Pen all day—students, pros, whoever.

Why Chesona Cases Are Worth It

Chesona cases cost less than replacing a lost or damaged stylus. Apple Pencils and S Pens aren't cheap, so it makes sense to protect them from the start.

These cases offer a mix of protection and organization. You get a safe spot for your stylus and a sturdy case for your tablet, all in one. No need to juggle separate accessories. Chesona actually uses materials that feel sturdy and outlast the flimsy knockoffs.

The built-in holders mean you always know where your stylus is hiding. No more digging through bags or chasing a runaway pen across the table. Whether you doodle for fun or rely on your stylus for work, Chesona cases just make life easier.

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Conclusion: S Pen vs Apple Pencil

Both the S Pen and Apple Pencil deliver excellent performance for their respective ecosystems. Your choice ultimately comes down to whether you're using Samsung or Apple devices. The S Pen offers great value since it's often included free, while the Apple Pencil justifies its separate cost with seamless iPad integration.

If you prioritize features like air gestures and never charging, go with the S Pen. If you want the tightest app integration and hover detection on newer models, the Apple Pencil is your best bet.

Whichever stylus you choose, protecting your device is essential. If you're an iPad user, learn more about finding the right Apple Pencil for your device in our guide: What Apple Pencil Do I Need for iPad 10th Generation?

Frequently Asked Questions: S Pen vs Apple Pencil

Both styluses only work with their own brand's devices, so your decision really comes down to what you care about more: compatibility, drawing features, or price.

Which is better, Samsung S Pen or Apple Pencil?

Neither stylus is the clear winner—it depends on your device and priorities. The Apple Pencil offers exceptional responsiveness with low latency, pressure sensitivity, and tilt detection, but you must buy it separately. The S Pen typically comes free with Samsung tablets and includes unique features like air gestures and remote controls.

Which is better, an Apple Pencil or a stylus?

The Apple Pencil far surpasses generic styluses with pressure sensitivity, tilt detection, and palm rejection. Generic styluses are cheaper and work on various touchscreens but lack precision and professional features. The Apple Pencil charges on your iPad and pairs automatically, making it worth the investment for serious work.

Is the S Pen good for drawing?

The S Pen is excellent for drawing, offering 4,096 pressure levels, low latency, and tilt detection for natural shading. It works seamlessly with professional drawing apps and uses electromagnetic resonance technology, so it never needs charging. Artists can sketch or create detailed work with reliable palm rejection and precise line control.

Can I use Samsung S Pen on iPhone?

No, the S Pen doesn't work with iPhones because it requires special electromagnetic resonance hardware that only Samsung devices have. iPhones lack the necessary digitizer to detect S Pen signals. For iPhone stylus use, choose an Apple Pencil or a generic capacitive stylus instead.