The Apple Pencil is a powerful tool for artists, students, and professionals—but like any device, it needs regular charging. If you’re unsure whether your Apple Pencil is charging or not, you’re not alone. Many users wonder: How do you know if your Apple Pencil is charging? The answer depends on which model you have and how you’re checking its battery level.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to tell if your Apple Pencil is charging, where to find the battery percentage, and how to troubleshoot charging issues.
Understanding the Two Apple Pencil Models
Before diving into how to check charging status, you need to identify which Apple Pencil model you have:
| Model | Charging Method | Compatible Devices |
| Apple Pencil (1st Gen) | Lightning connector (plug into iPad or use adapter) | iPad 6th–9th gen, iPad mini 5 |
| Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) | Magnetic charging on side of iPad Pro/Air | iPad Pro (3rd gen+), iPad Air 4+ |
Each model displays its charging status slightly differently.
How to Know If Apple Pencil (1st Gen) Is Charging
The 1st generation Apple Pencil charges through the Lightning connector either by:
- Plugging directly into the iPad’s Lightning port
- Using a Lightning to Apple Pencil adapter and a USB cable
How to Check If It’s Charging
- Plug the Pencil into your iPad’s Lightning port
- Open your iPad and swipe right to the Today View
- Look for the Batteries widget
- If the Apple Pencil is charging, you’ll see a lightning bolt icon next to its battery percentage
If the Batteries widget is missing:
- Go to Home Screen > Swipe right > Scroll down and tap Edit
- Tap the green “+” next to Batteries
The widget will now display the battery level of all connected devices, including the Apple Pencil.
How to Know If Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) Is Charging
The 2nd generation Apple Pencil charges wirelessly by magnetically attaching to the right side of compatible iPads.
Steps to Confirm It’s Charging
- Attach the Apple Pencil to the magnetic connector on the side of the iPad
- A pop-up will appear at the top of the screen showing the charging status and battery percentage
- If it disappears, check again by removing and reattaching the Pencil
You can also check charging manually:
- Swipe right to access the Today View
- Ensure the Batteries widget is enabled
- Look for your Apple Pencil’s battery percentage and a charging icon
If the percentage increases over time, it’s charging properly.
Visual Indicators While Charging
| Apple Pencil Version | Charging Indicator |
| 1st Gen | Lightning bolt icon in Batteries widget |
| 2nd Gen | On-screen pop-up with battery % + charging symbol |
| Both | Percentage increases in real time while connected |
Apple does not include LED lights on the Apple Pencil, so you need to rely on screen notifications and the Batteries widget.
How Long Does It Take to Charge?
- 1st Gen: About 15 seconds of charging gives you 30 minutes of use. A full charge takes around 30 minutes.
- 2nd Gen: Charges gradually while magnetically connected; about 15 minutes for a 50% boost, and up to an hour for a full charge.
Troubleshooting: Apple Pencil Not Charging?
If you don’t see the charging symbol or battery percentage is stuck, try the following:
For 1st Gen Apple Pencil:
- Make sure the Lightning connector is clean
- Restart your iPad
- Try using the adapter and USB cable if charging directly doesn’t work
- Check if the Apple Pencil tip is screwed in securely
For 2nd Gen Apple Pencil:
- Remove and reattach the Pencil to the magnetic side
- Ensure it’s seated flat and secure
- Restart your iPad
- Confirm your iPad is compatible with 2nd Gen Pencil
- Clean the magnetic area for better contact
If none of these work, try unpairing and re-pairing the Pencil via Settings > Bluetooth
Bonus: How to See Battery Percentage at Any Time
- Add the Batteries widget to your home or Today View
- Go to Settings > Widgets > Batteries and tap Add
- This widget shows Apple Pencil, iPad, and any connected devices’ battery levels
FAQs
How do I know if my Apple Pencil is charging?
If you’re using 1st Gen, plug it into the iPad and check the Batteries widget for a lightning bolt icon. For 2nd Gen, attach it magnetically to your iPad—an animation with battery % appears on-screen.
Why isn’t my Apple Pencil showing as charging?
Check the connection—ensure it’s fully inserted (1st Gen) or magnetically seated (2nd Gen). Also, confirm your iPad supports that Pencil model.
Does the Apple Pencil have a charging light?
No, Apple Pencil does not have a physical charging light. You need to check the iPad’s on-screen indicators or battery widgets.
Can I overcharge my Apple Pencil?
No. Apple devices are designed to stop charging when full. Keeping it connected won’t harm the battery.
How long does an Apple Pencil take to charge fully?
1st Gen takes around 30 minutes, and 2nd Gen takes about an hour. A quick 15-second charge can offer up to 30 minutes of use.