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

Only the current iPad mini 5 models -- the iPad mini 5 (Wi-Fi, A2133), iPad mini 5 (Wi-Fi + Cellular US/CA/AU/NZ, A2126), iPad mini 5 (Wi-Fi + Cellular Global, A2124), and iPad mini 5 (Wi-Fi + Cellular China, A2125) -- are compatible with the Apple Pencil.

Specifically, the iPad mini 5 supports the original Apple Pencil (A1603, MK0C2AM/A) that charges via Lightning Port.

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

No iPad mini models support the newer Apple Pencil 2 (A2051, MU8F2AM/A) that charges more conveniently via a magnet connection on the side of select iPad Pro models.

Best Third-Party iPad mini Pens

For those with an iPad mini 5, Everyi.com would recommend that you buy the original Apple Pencil. However, for those with older iPad mini models, good options are available from other companies.

Based on hands-on use, our favorite third-party pen is the Wacom Bamboo Fineline. Although 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 mini model running iOS 8 or newer.

Photo Credit: Wacom, Inc. (Bamboo Fineline)

If you're on a more modest budget, there are cheap options like the XIRON Stylus Pen and Meko Universal Disc Stylus that you might also want to consider. These inexpensive 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 iPad mini models for those with modest expectations.

Photo Credit: XIRON (Left), Meko (Right)

Although these pens from XIRON and Meko are not nearly as sophisticated or as precise as the Apple and Wacom options, they generally are well regarded for the price and certainly are more accurate for sketching and writing on the iPad mini than trying to use your finger.

Choosing the Best iPad mini Compatible Pen for You

Ultimately, for the iPad mini 5, the original Apple Pencil is the best choice and we would suggest the Wacom Bamboo Fineline for earlier iPad mini models. However, for those on a tighter budget, cheap generic options may be good enough, as well.

Apple Authorized site sponsor Adorama sells the original Apple Pencil that is compatible with the iPad mini 5 as well as the Apple Pencil 2.