If you’ve ever shopped for an iPad stylus, you’ve probably asked yourself the big question: Do I really need the Apple Pencil, or can I save some cash with a cheaper alternative? With more people using iPads for note-taking, art, and everyday browsing, the stylus you choose can make a big difference in how smooth your workflow feels and how much you end up spending.
In 2025, there are more options than ever. So, is the Apple Pencil still the king, or have third-party brands finally caught up? Let’s break it down.
Come with me as I take you on a comparative journey of these two pens. In this article, we will cover what sets the two stylus pens apart and also touch on their performances to see which you can comfortably buy in exchange for your money. It promises to be informative.
Apple Pencil vs. Non-Apple Stylus: Key Differences that Matter
Price Comparison: Is the Apple Pencil Worth the Premium?
Let’s talk money first. The Apple Pencil (2nd generation) goes for around $129, and the older version still sells for close to $99. That’s not pocket change, especially when some iPads themselves start under $400.
Now compare that to brands like ESR, Logitech, and Xiapen, many of their styluses cost between $25 and $70. You could literally buy two or even three of these for the price of one Apple Pencil.
But here's the thing: that high price isn’t just branding. The Apple Pencil has industry-leading features that genuinely make a difference if you are a professional artist or designer. For most people, though, those premium features might be overkill.
Performance Test: Pressure sensitivity & Latency (Shocking Results!)
The Apple Pencil shines when it comes to responsiveness. It offers thousands of pressure sensitivity levels, almost zero lag (especially when you use it with an iPad Pro), and an overall experience that feels as close to real pen-and-paper as you can get.
That said, styluses like the ESR Geo Digital Pencil have stepped up big time. It offers tilt support, palm rejection, and even integrates with Apple’s Find My app, all for under $50. The latency is slightly higher than Apple’s latency, but unless you’re sketching hyper-detailed portraits or animating frame by frame, you would barely notice it.
For casual note-taking, digital journaling, and everyday tasks, these affordable options perform surprisingly well.
Compatibility Check: Which Stylus Works Best with Your iPad Model?
Apple’s styluses are a bit picky. The 2nd-gen model only works with newer iPad Air, Pro, and Mini devices. If you own an iPad 10th gen, you’ll need a special adapter just to charge the 1st-gen Pencil.
That’s where third-party styluses shine. Most of them work straight out of the box with a broader range of iPads, no Bluetooth pairing or adapters needed. Brands like ESR have styluses that connect instantly, charge with USB-C, and just work, which is exactly what most of us want.
2025’s Top 7 iPad Stylus Picks: Which one is best for your iPad Pro/Air/Mini
According to recent comparisons from TechRadar and Wirecutter, the following styluses are getting top marks this year:
1. Apple Pencil (2nd Gen): This is still the go-to for professionals and artists who need flawless performance.
2. Logitech Crayon: This is a student-friendly ipad stylus designed with students in mind. You don’t have to struggle with notetaking as the Longitech crayon has a Tough build, highly compatible and great for taking quick notes.
3. ESR Geo Digital Pencil: Packed with features like tilt-sensitivity and a built-in Find My Support, the ESR geo digital pencil is very affordable, and user-friendly.
4. Adonit Note+ 2: This is ideal for more advanced drawing with customizable shortcut buttons. So, if you are a professional designer dealing with advanced tools, the Adonit Note+ 2 is your best bet.
5. Xiapen Stylus Pen: Looking for a budget-friendly option that works well for basic tasks and daily use? Then the Xiapen stylus pen is here to serve you till forever.
6. Zagg Pro Stylus 2: What do you think about a dual-tip stylus pen with a solid build? Perfect, right? The Zagg Pro stylus pen offers you such luxury suitable for general use and your digital planning.
7. JamJake Stylus: If you’re wondering if you could ever get a big deal at a budget-friendly price especially among students and casual users, then the JamJake is your big hit.
Why I Chose a $30 Stylus Alternative Over the Apple Pencil?
I own an iPad Air and, after testing several options, I landed on the ESR Geo Pencil. Here’s why: it charges fast, attaches magnetically, and works well for writing and sketching. Do I miss the Apple Pencil’s ultra-smooth pressure sensitivity? A little. But for less than half the price, it delivers 90% of what I need. So why not?
Who Should Skip the Apple Pencil (Real-World User Insights)?
Let’s be honest: not everyone needs a $129 stylus. If you fall into one of the categories below, you can absolutely skip it:
Students: You’ll likely prefer the ESR Geo Pencil、Logitech Crayon or a Xiapen stylus — less worry, better battery, and way cheaper.
Note-takers and casual users: For journaling, PDF annotations, or scrolling TikTok with a stylus (no judgment! I do that a lot too ), a third-party pick is more than enough.
iPad 10th Gen users: Unless you love dongles and adapters, a non-Apple stylus is the smoother choice.
But if you’re a:
Digital Artist: You’ll want the Apple Pencil. The difference in pressure control and latency becomes more noticeable the more detailed your work is.
Professional Designer or Illustrator: The Pencil’s integration with creative apps like Procreate and Adobe Fresco makes it worth the splurge.
Hardcore iPad user: If you use every productivity and drawing feature on your iPad, the Apple Pencil fits right in.
However, considering the super expensive nature of the Apple Pencil, you’d sure want to explore an alternative, something more affordable as listed in the top 7 options above.
Noted Hidden Drawbacks of Third-Party Styluses
Now, as much as I love saving money, it’s only fair to call out the downsides:
● Pressure sensitivity is limited: Most budget styluses can’t match the full dynamic range of Apple’s stylus.
● Palm rejection can be hit or miss: Some models struggle if your hand rests too heavily on the screen.
● Not fully supported in pro apps: Apple Pencil is better optimized for iPadOS features and drawing apps.
● Build quality varies: Some cheaper styluses feel plasticky or don’t last as long.
Even with all that in mind, a $30-$50 stylus is still a win for most iPad owners who just want a simple, functional tool.
The Bottom Line: Which Stylus Should You Get?
If you’re drawing detailed art, working professionally in design, or want the best of the best, go with the Apple Pencil.
But if you’re like me, someone who takes notes, sketches now and then, and likes saving money, brands like ESR, Logitech, and Xiapen are surprisingly capable. In 2025, there are more affordable Apple Pencil alternatives under $50 than ever that offer real value without feeling like a compromise.
So yes, the Apple Pencil may still be supreme in terms of raw power, but for everyday iPad users? It’s no longer the only crown-worthy option.
