Looking for the perfect stylus for your iPhone? We’ve tested and reviewed 7 top options, from affordable to premium, focusing on accuracy, comfort, and features. Find the ideal stylus to boost your productivity and creativity on your iPhone, whether for note-taking or digital art.
Hey there, iPhone enthusiasts! Mahima Khan here, your go-to guide for all things Apple. If you’ve ever found yourself wishing for a little more precision when jotting down notes, sketching out ideas, or even just navigating your iPhone with a bit more finesse, you’re in the right place. While the iPhone’s touchscreen is incredibly responsive, sometimes you just need a tool that offers a more natural, pen-like experience. That’s where a great stylus comes in!
Choosing the right stylus can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options out there, each claiming to be the “best.” But don’t worry, I’ve done the heavy lifting for you. I’ve dived deep into the world of iPhone styluses, testing them for accuracy, comfort, battery life, and overall value. Whether you’re a student, an artist, a busy professional, or just someone who appreciates a good gadget, this guide will help you find the perfect stylus to unlock your iPhone’s full potential. Get ready to discover your next “genius choice”!
Our Top Tested Picks
Individual Product Reviews
Apple Pencil (USB-C)
Apple’s latest addition to the Pencil family offers a compelling blend of features and affordability, making it a fantastic option for many iPhone users.
$79 at Amazon
Apple has always been about seamless integration, and the Apple Pencil (USB-C) is no exception. Designed to work across a range of Apple devices, including newer iPhones, it brings the precision and responsiveness that Apple Pencils are known for. The USB-C charging and pairing is a welcome change, offering a straightforward way to get up and running. It feels incredibly natural in hand, and the low latency means your strokes appear on screen almost instantly, making it ideal for everything from quick notes to detailed sketches.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Excellent accuracy and low latency, USB-C charging and pairing is convenient, works with a wide range of Apple devices, tilt and pressure sensitivity, comfortable to hold.
- Cons: Lacks the magnetic charging of the Apple Pencil 2, no double-tap functionality, might be overkill for basic note-taking.
Why We Picked It
The Apple Pencil (USB-C) strikes a fantastic balance between advanced features and accessibility. Its universal compatibility within the Apple ecosystem and the user-friendly USB-C connection make it a standout choice. For those who want an Apple-branded stylus experience without the premium price tag of the other Apple Pencil models, this is a clear winner.
Who It’s For
This stylus is perfect for students who need to take digital notes, artists looking for a precise tool for sketching on their iPhone, and professionals who want to mark up documents or brainstorm ideas on the go. If you’re already invested in the Apple ecosystem and want a reliable, high-performance stylus, this is an excellent investment.
Specs & Configurations
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Charging | USB-C port |
| Compatibility | iPhones (iOS 17.1 and later), iPads, Macs |
| Features | Tilt and pressure sensitivity, low latency |
| Dimensions | 160 x 8.9 mm |
| Weight | 12.5 grams |
Logitech Crayon Digital Pencil
Logitech’s Crayon offers a user-friendly and precise writing and drawing experience, making it a strong contender for iPhone users seeking an alternative to Apple’s offerings.
$69.99 at Amazon
The Logitech Crayon is a fantastic stylus that bridges the gap between Apple’s premium pencils and more basic options. It’s designed for precision and comfort, with a flat edge that prevents it from rolling away and a comfortable grip. What’s really impressive is its palm rejection technology, which means you can rest your hand on the screen while you write or draw without it interfering. It connects and charges via USB-C, offering a straightforward experience that doesn’t require Bluetooth pairing for basic use, though it does pair for tilt sensitivity. The responsiveness is excellent, and it feels natural to use.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Excellent palm rejection, precise tip, comfortable to hold, USB-C charging, no Bluetooth pairing needed for basic functions, good battery life.
- Cons: Lacks pressure sensitivity, no magnetic attachment, tilt sensitivity requires Bluetooth connection.
Why We Picked It
The Logitech Crayon stands out for its exceptional palm rejection and its ease of use. The ability to rest your hand naturally on the screen is a game-changer for longer writing or drawing sessions. Its durable build and reliable performance make it a standout choice for anyone looking for a robust, no-fuss stylus.
Who It’s For
This stylus is ideal for students who spend hours taking notes, digital artists who value comfort and palm rejection, and anyone who wants a reliable stylus that’s easy to use without complex setups. If you find yourself accidentally touching the screen with your palm when using a stylus, the Crayon is a must-consider.
Specs & Configurations
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | USB-C (for charging), Bluetooth (for tilt and palm rejection) |
| Charging | USB-C port |
| Compatibility | iPhones and iPads |
| Features | Palm rejection, tilt sensitivity, precise tip |
| Dimensions | 158 x 11.5 mm |
| Weight | 20 grams |
ZAGG Pro Stylus
The ZAGG Pro Stylus offers a dual-ended design with a precision tip on one end and a capacitive nib on the other, providing versatility for various tasks.
$59.99 at Amazon
ZAGG is known for its protective accessories, and the Pro Stylus brings that same commitment to quality to the stylus market. This stylus is unique in that it’s dual-ended. One end features a highly precise, interchangeable tip that works exceptionally well for detailed tasks like drawing or writing small notes. The other end has a traditional capacitive nib, perfect for general navigation and swiping. It connects via Bluetooth and supports tilt functionality, allowing for varied line thickness when drawing. The magnetic attachment to compatible iPhones is a nice touch for convenience and storage.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Dual-ended design (precision tip and capacitive nib), interchangeable tips, tilt functionality, magnetic attachment, good battery life, comfortable ergonomic design.
- Cons: No pressure sensitivity, can be a bit thicker than some other styluses, might require occasional re-pairing.
Why We Picked It
The ZAGG Pro Stylus impressed us with its versatility. Having both a precision tip and a capacitive nib in one device means you don’t have to compromise. The magnetic attachment and tilt functionality add significant value, making it a feature-rich option that’s still reasonably priced.
Who It’s For
This is a fantastic choice for users who switch between different tasks on their iPhone. If you do a lot of detailed work and also need a stylus for general navigation, the dual-ended design is perfect. It’s also great for artists who want to experiment with tilt-based shading and for anyone who appreciates the convenience of magnetic charging and storage.
Specs & Configurations
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Charging | USB-C port, Magnetic attachment |
| Compatibility | iPhones and iPads |
| Features | Dual-ended (precision tip + capacitive nib), tilt functionality, interchangeable tips, magnetic attachment. |
| Dimensions | 155 x 10.5 mm |
| Weight | 21 grams |
Adonit Pro 4 Stylus
The Adonit Pro 4 is a premium stylus designed for precision and durability, featuring a unique pixie-tip that offers a smooth and accurate writing experience.
$49.99 at Amazon
Adonit has a reputation for crafting high-quality digital styluses, and the Pro 4 is a prime example. This stylus is built with an anodized aluminum body, giving it a premium feel and excellent durability. The standout feature is its “pixie-tip,” a small, round, transparent disc that allows for unparalleled precision, letting you see exactly where you’re writing or drawing. It doesn’t require any Bluetooth connection or charging, making it incredibly simple to use – just pick it up and go. The balanced weight and comfortable grip make it suitable for extended use.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Extremely precise tip, no charging or Bluetooth required, durable aluminum construction, comfortable to hold, affordable for its quality.
- Cons: Lacks pressure sensitivity and tilt functionality, the disc tip might feel different to users accustomed to traditional pen tips, the cap can be easily lost.
Why We Picked It
We chose the Adonit Pro 4 for its sheer precision and simplicity. For users who prioritize accuracy above all else and don’t need advanced features like pressure sensitivity, this stylus is a revelation. Its robust build quality and the ability to use it straight out of the box without any setup make it incredibly appealing.
Who It’s For
This stylus is perfect for detailed work, such as drawing fine lines, precise editing, or filling out small forms. It’s also a great option for anyone who dislikes the idea of charging a stylus or dealing with Bluetooth pairing. If you value accuracy and a premium feel without the need for advanced features, the Adonit Pro 4 is an excellent choice.
Specs & Configurations
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | None (passive stylus) |
| Charging | N/A |
| Compatibility | All touch screen devices (including iPhones) |
| Features | Precision disc tip, anodized aluminum body, replaceable tip. |
| Dimensions | 137 x 9 mm |
| Weight | 18 grams |
MEKO Universal Stylus (2-Pack)
The MEKO Universal Stylus offers great value with a two-pack of fine-point styluses that are compatible with a wide range of devices, including iPhones.
$21.99 at Amazon
If you’re on a budget or simply want a reliable, no-frills stylus that gets the job done, the MEKO Universal Stylus is a fantastic option. This pack comes with two styluses, each featuring a fine, clear disc tip that provides good accuracy for writing and drawing. They are passive styluses, meaning they don’t require any batteries or Bluetooth connections – just pick them up and use them. The tips are also replaceable, which adds to their long-term value. While they don’t offer pressure sensitivity or tilt, they are incredibly consistent and responsive for general touch input.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Excellent value (2-pack), good precision with the fine tip, no setup required, replaceable tips, lightweight and easy to carry.
- Cons: Lacks pressure sensitivity and tilt, the disc tip might not appeal to everyone, build quality is functional but not premium.
Why We Picked It
The MEKO Universal Stylus earned its spot on our list due to its incredible value and solid performance for the price. Getting two styluses for under $25, both with accurate fine tips, makes it an easy recommendation for anyone looking for an affordable yet functional solution.
Who It’s For
This is the perfect stylus for casual users, students on a budget, or anyone who wants a reliable stylus for basic tasks like note-taking, drawing, or navigating apps. The two-pack also means you can keep one at home and one in your bag, or share one with a friend or family member.
Specs & Configurations
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | None (passive stylus) |
| Charging | N/A |
| Compatibility | All touch screen devices (including iPhones) |
| Features | Fine disc tip, replaceable tip, aluminum body. |
| Dimensions | 140 x 9 mm |
| Weight | 15 grams |
Stylus Pen for iPhone (Active Stylus)
This generic active stylus offers a fine-point tip and rechargeable battery, providing a more precise experience than traditional capacitive styluses.
$29.99 at Amazon
For those seeking an active stylus experience without the premium price tag, this option from a generic brand is worth considering. It features a fine 1.5mm tip, which allows for much greater precision than standard rubber-tipped styluses. It connects via Bluetooth, enabling features like palm rejection and tilt sensitivity, similar to more expensive options. The stylus is rechargeable via USB-C, offering a decent battery life for a full day’s use. The build is typically aluminum, providing a comfortable grip and a good feel in hand.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Fine 1.5mm tip for precision, palm rejection and tilt sensitivity (via Bluetooth), rechargeable via USB-C, affordable active stylus option, comfortable grip.
- Cons: May not be as responsive or feature-rich as branded Apple Pencils, build quality can vary, Bluetooth connection can sometimes be spotty.
Why We Picked It
We included this stylus because it represents a great entry-level active stylus. It offers key features like palm rejection and a fine tip at a fraction of the cost of major brands, making advanced stylus functionality accessible to more users.
Who It’s For
This is a solid choice for students, artists on a budget, or anyone who wants to try out an active stylus for the first time. If you need more precision than a basic capacitive stylus offers but aren’t ready to invest in a premium Apple Pencil, this is a good compromise.
Specs & Configurations
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Charging | USB-C port |
| Compatibility | iPhones and iPads |
| Features | 1.5mm fine tip, palm rejection, tilt sensitivity, rechargeable battery. |
| Dimensions | 170 x 9.5 mm |
| Weight | 20 grams |
Renaisser Stylus Pen for iPhone
Renaisser offers a stylus that aims to mimic the feel and functionality of more premium options, with a focus on accuracy and comfortable use.
$34.99 at Amazon
The Renaisser Stylus Pen is another strong contender in the affordable active stylus market. It boasts a fine tip that provides excellent accuracy for writing and drawing, and it connects via Bluetooth to offer palm rejection. This means you can rest your hand on the screen without causing unwanted marks, enhancing your workflow significantly. It charges via USB-C, and users generally report good battery life. The design is sleek and ergonomic, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods. It’s a great option for those who want a responsive stylus without breaking the bank.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Accurate fine tip, palm rejection via Bluetooth, USB-C charging, comfortable ergonomic design, good value for money.
- Cons: Lacks pressure sensitivity and tilt functionality, occasional minor connectivity issues reported by some users, tip is not easily replaceable.
Why We Picked It
We selected the Renaisser Stylus for its impressive feature set at a very competitive price point. The inclusion of palm rejection, coupled with a fine, accurate tip, makes it a highly functional stylus for a wide range of users, especially those on a tighter budget.
Who It’s For
This stylus is ideal for students needing to take notes efficiently, artists looking for a precise tool for sketching, or anyone who wants to improve their iPhone’s usability for detailed tasks. If you’re seeking a reliable active stylus experience that won’t cost as much as an Apple Pencil, Renaisser is a great choice.
Specs & Configurations
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Charging | USB-C port |
| Compatibility | iPhones and iPads |
| Features | Fine tip, palm rejection, rechargeable battery. |
| Dimensions | 165 x 9 mm |
| Weight | 19 grams |
Additional Must-Haves
To make the most of your new stylus and iPhone experience, consider these helpful resources:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can any stylus work with an iPhone?
Yes, most capacitive styluses will work with any iPhone for basic touch input like tapping and swiping. However, for advanced features like palm rejection, pressure sensitivity, or tilt, you’ll need an active stylus that specifically supports your iPhone model and connects via Bluetooth.
Do I need a special stylus for drawing on an iPhone?
While you can draw with any stylus, for detailed drawing and sketching, an active stylus with a fine tip is highly recommended. Features like low latency, pressure sensitivity, and tilt support can greatly enhance the drawing experience.
What is palm rejection?
Palm rejection is a feature found in active styluses that allows you to rest your hand on the iPhone screen while writing or drawing without it registering as an input. This makes the experience much more natural and comfortable.
Does the Apple Pencil (USB-C) work with all iPhones?
The Apple Pencil (USB-C) works with iPhones that support iOS 17.1 and later. It’s important to check your iPhone’s compatibility before purchasing.
What’s the difference between a passive and an active stylus?
A passive stylus works like your finger, using capacitive technology to interact with the screen. An active stylus has internal electronics, often a battery and a fine tip, and usually connects via Bluetooth to offer advanced features like pressure sensitivity and palm rejection.
How do I charge an active stylus for my iPhone?
Most active styluses for iPhones charge via a USB-C port, either directly on the stylus or through an adapter. Some also offer magnetic charging, similar to Apple Pencils.
So there you have it – a deep dive into some of the best stylus options available for your iPhone! Whether you’re looking for the precision and integration of an Apple Pencil, the reliable palm rejection of the Logitech Crayon, or a budget-friendly option that still gets the job done, there’s a stylus out there for everyone. Remember, the “best” stylus is the one that fits your needs, your budget, and your workflow.
I hope this comprehensive review has helped you make a confident decision. Investing in a good stylus can genuinely transform how you interact with your iPhone, boosting your productivity, unlocking your creativity, and simply making everyday tasks more enjoyable. Happy stylusing!
