Which Apple Pencil Do I Have? Model & Skin Guide

Recognise the four Apple Pencil models

Apple Pencil Pro

Look for the Apple Pencil Pro marking or its original product label. Pro supports features including squeeze and barrel roll and pairs and charges magnetically with compatible iPads. Apple's Pencil comparison explains these features.

Order the dedicated Pro skin rather than choosing Gen 2 because its exterior looks familiar.

Apple Pencil, second generation

This model has a flat side and no charging cap to remove. It pairs and charges through the magnetic connector on a compatible iPad, as described in Apple's second-generation charging guide. Check the packaging or model information when distinguishing it from Pro.

Apple Pencil, first generation

The removable end cap conceals its Lightning connector. Apple lists Lightning pairing and charging in the first-generation specifications. Some compatible iPad combinations require the appropriate adapter; changing the skin does not change that requirement.

Apple Pencil, USB-C

Its sliding end cap reveals a USB-C socket. It attaches magnetically for storage but pairs and charges using a cable, not by magnetic charging. See Apple's USB-C Pencil description. A flat side alone therefore does not identify a second-generation Pencil.

The iPad and Pencil must be checked separately

Confirm the tablet using our iPad model guide, then check Apple's Pencil compatibility list. The Pencil you own matters just as much as the tablet you are using.

For example, Apple lists Pencil Pro and USB-C for iPad Air M3 and iPad Pro M4/M5; that does not make Gen 2 compatible with those tablets. A skin cannot add a charging feature or turn one Pencil model into another.

Understand the pieces before choosing colours

On the Pencil Pro listing, Custom offers Body, Nib and Body + Nib. Review the preview and supplied fitting instructions to understand the intended position of each decorative section.

A Nib skin selection is not a replacement drawing tip. Keep the actual point that contacts the display clear, and never wrap spare vinyl over charging connectors, moving caps or unintended areas.

Choose Full Colour for a coordinated finish across the supplied pieces, or Custom for the individual choices offered by that product. Check Gen 1 and Gen 2 independently rather than assuming they contain the same parts as Pro.

Choose a finish for the way you hold it

Textured Matt is a good place to start for a restrained colour change. A Wood finish gives the accessory a more traditional pencil-like appearance, while Brushed Metal, Carbon Fibre and Leather finishes create different effects in vinyl.

The surface feel will change with the material. Choose for comfort as well as appearance, and check the available finishes on the exact product. A patterned phone design is not automatically available as a Pencil skin.

For a coordinated setup, explore the iPad and keyboard ranges alongside our matching colour ideas.

Fit without forcing or adding extra layers

Use the Apple Pencil skin installation guide alongside your supplied instructions. These coloured and textured skins are dry fitted. Do not borrow a wet-installation method from a clear phone-film guide.

Prepare the intended surface, let it dry and align the seam carefully before firm pressure. Follow Apple's cleaning guidance for the accessory; keep moisture away from the writing tip and openings.

Avoid stretching, stacking skins or creating an unintended overlap. Check normal drawing, charging and supported controls after fitting. If attachment or operation changes, stop and contact us rather than pressing harder or adding more heat.

Pencil skin questions