Tablets

Apple Pencil won't pair

An Apple Pencil that won't connect is usually a Bluetooth or charging issue rather than a broken Pencil, and re-pairing from scratch fixes most cases.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
10–20 minutes
DIY cost
$0
Pro cost
$0 (not typically repairable, usually replaced)

Symptoms

  • Pencil doesn't show up in Bluetooth settings
  • Tapping doesn't trigger a pairing prompt
  • Pencil was working before and suddenly stopped

Likely causes

  • CommonPencil not chargedA fully dead Pencil won't show any pairing activity at all.
  • CommonBluetooth turned off or already paired to another deviceThe Pencil can only actively pair with one device at a time.
  • PossibleDirty or damaged magnetic/charging contactsDebris on the flat edge or the tablet's magnetic strip can prevent charging and pairing.

What to do

  1. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on in Settings.
  2. Charge the Pencil first: attach it magnetically to the correct edge of a compatible iPad, or use the charging adapter for older models, for at least a few minutes.
  3. Forget the Pencil in Bluetooth settings if it shows as previously paired, then reattach it to trigger a fresh pairing prompt.
  4. Clean the flat magnetic edge of the Pencil and the tablet's pairing area with a dry cloth.
  5. Restart the tablet and try pairing again.
  6. If it still won't pair or charge after cleaning, the Pencil's internal battery or contacts may have failed.

Tools and parts

  • Dry cloth
Replacement Apple PencilSearch: “Apple Pencil compatible with your iPad model”

When to call a pro

Apple Pencils generally aren't user-repairable inside; if cleaning and re-pairing don't work, replacement is usually the practical fix, or Apple support if still under warranty.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.