Do the iPad Air models support pen input? Which iPad Air models? What pens are compatible? Is there a cheaper option than Apple's Pencil?

The iPad Air 4 models and the current iPad Air 5 models support the newest Apple Pencil 2 (A2051, MU8F2AM/A) that charges conveniently via a magnet connection on the side of the tablet.

The iPad Air 3 models are compatible with the original Apple Pencil (A1603, MK0C2AM/A). The original Apple Pencil charges via Lightning Port.

If you are not certain which iPad Air you have, the easiest way to identify each is by its Model Number located toward the bottom on the back of each device.

Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (Original Apple Pencil)

The earlier original iPad and iPad Air 2 models do not support either Apple Pencil.

Best Third-Party iPad Air Pens

For those with an iPad Air 4 or iPad Air 5, Everyi.com definitely recommends that you buy the excellent Apple Pencil 2. For the iPad Air 3, the original Apple Pencil likely is the best choice, even it charges quite awkwardly. However, for those with an original iPad Air or iPad Air 2, solid third-party options are available.

Based on personal use, our preferred third-party pen is the Wacom Bamboo Fineline. Although it is getting more difficult to find and it can be a bit flaky from time-to-time (sometimes requiring a reset), it connects via Bluetooth and supports pressure sensitivity and palm rejection in a number of compatible graphic design and note-taking apps. It generally works well with any iPad Air with iOS 8 or newer installed.

Photo Credit: Wacom, Inc. (Bamboo Fineline)

If you're on a tight budget, you might prefer a cheap, essentially no-name option like the DOGAIN Active Stylus Pen or NTHJoys Universal Fine Point Stylus. These simple pens do not pair via Bluetooth and do not support pressure sensitivity or palm rejection, but can work well enough as a pen with the original iPad Air and iPad Air 2.

Photo Credit: DOGAIN (Left), NTHJoys (Right)

Although these pens from DOGAIN and NTHJoys are not as precise or refined as the Apple or Wacom options, they are well-reviewed and can be a good option for someone with reasonable expectations.

Choosing the Best iPad Air Compatible Pen for You

Ultimately, the Apple Pencil 2 is the best choice for the iPad Air 4 and iPad Air 5 and the original Apple Pencil is the best choice for the iPad Air 3. We would suggest the Wacom Bamboo Fineline for the original iPad Air or iPad Air 2. However, if you have a modest budget and expectations, inexpensive generic options may be good enough for you, as well.

Apple Authorized site sponsor Adorama sells the original Apple Pencil that is compatible with the iPad Air 3 as well as the Apple Pencil 2 that is compatible with the iPad Air 4 and iPad Air 5.