This latest version of the Apple Pencil brings a host of exciting features and improvements that will revolutionize the way artists and designers work. It's a very capable stylus and connects/charges easily. We do suggest the Stylus Sling for securing it to your iPad cover, but let's dive in and explore what makes the new Apple Pencil a game-changer.
Gone are the days of waiting for your Apple Pencil to charge. The new Apple Pencil comes with USB-C charging, which means you can quickly charge it using your iPad or any other USB-C device. With just 15 seconds of charging, you get an impressive 30 minutes of use. And a full charge gives you an incredible 12 hours of uninterrupted creativity.
The new Apple Pencil takes precision and responsiveness to a whole new level. With its advanced technology, it offers pixel-perfect precision and virtually no lag, making it feel like you're drawing on paper. Whether you're sketching, shading, or creating intricate designs, the Apple Pencil delivers an unparalleled level of accuracy and control. The matte finish gives the stylus a great feel when drawing or writing.
Pairing the new Apple Pencil with your iPad is a breeze. Simply attach it with a USB-C cable, and it automatically pairs and charges. The magnetic connection is helpful, but not as secure as using the Stylus Sling. With the addition of a Stylus Sling to your iPad cover, you never have to worry about losing your Apple Pencil.
The new Apple Pencil Apple Pencil (USB-C) supports Apple Pencil hover when used with iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation) and iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation). With other devices, it's still a good stylus for the money, since the form factor and abilities are comparable to none.
The new Apple Pencil is compatible with a wide range of apps, making it a versatile tool for artists and designers. Whether you're using Procreate, Adobe Photoshop, or any other creative app, the Apple Pencil delivers a seamless and immersive experience. It is perfect for taking notes, sketching, marking up documents, journaling, and more. It delivers pixel‑perfect precision, low latency, and tilt sensitivity. So it’s as natural to use as a pencil.
With the new Apple Pencil, Apple has once again raised the bar for stylus technology. Its USB-C -fast charging, enhanced precision, seamless pairing, intuitive gesture controls, and wide app compatibility make it a must-have tool for artists and designers. Whether you're a professional artist or someone who loves to doodle, the new Apple Pencil will take your creativity to new heights. Get ready to unleash your artistic potential like never before!
The new Apple Pencil with USB-C is compatible with the iPads below. Use a USB-C cable for charging your Apple Pencil.
For the most part, we found the Magic Keyboard worth the money if you really want to make your iPad Pro more like a MacBook Pro. While not the same, it gets much closer to that with the added trackpad.
We do recommend the use of the Stylus Sling to keep your Apple Pencil secure to your Magic Keyboard. This is still the best way to make sure it doesn't get lost. The Stylus Sling works great on the Magic Keyboard and easily attaches to the lower section on the cover.
Check out this video review from Tyler Stalman (listen to the podcast)
We do find the Magic Keyboard very handy and a definite upgrade to the Smart Keyboard, but there are some negatives.
Overall, if you want more of a laptop feel from your iPad Pro, the Magic Keyboard is your answer. It doesn't come cheap, but looks and feels great. The functionality is superb and we aren't disappointed by the new Apple keyboard addition.
]]>
We have been impressed by these sites covering all things Apple and iOS related topics. See our Top 5 list for best sources if you need advice on your devices:
GottaBeMobile.com Check out the article on "Best Apple Pencil Holders" – |
MacRumors.com The MacRumors Forums have good conversations about anything you need related to the iPad/iPhone or MacOS. Read More |
9to5mac.com 9to5mac.com has all the info when it comes to iOS and Mac regarding security – news and reviews for Apple products, apps, and rumors. They provide breaking coverage for the iPhone, iPad, and all things Mac! Read More |
TechCrunch.com For overall general information, we find TechCrunch.com to be a good source. Read More |
CreativeBloq.com creativebloq.com is better for the tech and creativity-related articles and forums. Read More |
Every current model iPad can use a version of the Apple Pencil, so you can pair an incredible stylus with your iPad, but the newest iPad may not work with the Apple Pencil Gen 2. Read more…
]]>Every current model iPad can use a version of the Apple Pencil, so you can pair an incredible stylus with your iPad, but the newest iPad may not work with the Apple Pencil Gen 2. For instance, the newest iPad 10.2-inch uses the 1st Generation Apple Pencil. Below is a list of Apple Pencil / iPad compatibility.
First-generation Apple Pencil works with:
|
Second-generation Apple Pencil works with:
|
Overall, either Apple Pencil is a great choice as the stylus for your iPad or iPad Pro. The feel in writing and drawing is unmatched by other styluses. The ability to use the side of the pencil tip to do shading on drawings is great and the pressure sensitivity on both versions is superb.
Also, we recommend the Stylus Sling as a great accessory for either generation Apple Pencil. It helps to eliminate issues dealing with a lost or detached Apple Pencil and accessory/adapters. The Stylus Sling secures your Apple Pencil and is compatible with all Smart Cover/Keyboard Folio or cases for iPad, mini, iPad Air or iPad Pro models. It fits the Apple Pencil tightly and secures it to your cover to keep it safely in place – safe from getting accidentally detached and lost.
The Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil keeps your stylus in reach at all times without the chance of snagging the Apple Pencil on your jacket pocket or handbag. It also provides a USB adapter pocket for the 1st Generation Apple Pencil, so you won’t have to search for this little adapter again.
Learn more about Apple Pencil on the official support page here.
]]>Check out this recent comment from Loretta about her issues with Apple Pencil and how she solved it...
"I recently bought an iPad Pro along with the Apple Pencil and keyboard and learned the hard way that the pencil does not stay securely attached to the iPad. I hope the Stylus Sling can help me avoid losing another $125 Apple Pencil. Thus far, the Stylus Sling does exactly what I’d hoped it would, which is to keep the stylus secure and easily accessible. Would highly recommend !" ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
– Loretta S, verified buyer
The Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil is the perfect solution for this problem and it fits the Smart Keyboard Folio and Smart Folio perfectly!
Do you use an iPad Pro and Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)? We use our iPad Pro with an Apple Pencil and love the workflow, but here are a few points we've found in using the Apple Pencil 2nd Generation.
A nice upgrade to the original Apple Pencil, the Apple Pencil 2 charges via a magnet on the side of the iPad Pro. This is great for charging, but does make it susceptible to getting lost when you're on the go. Many times the Apple Pencil Gen 2 gets knocked off or detaches from the magnet, either falling in your bag – or worse – losing your expensive Apple Pencil.
There are many times when putting the iPad Pro 2018 into a bag or backpack and the Apple Pencil 2 gets dislodged or knocked and falls off the magnet. We have also seen how it can come loose from the magnet when you grab the iPad Pro on the side where the Apple Pencil 2 is attached. This becomes annoying, so using the Stylus Sling re-positions the Apple Pencil 2 on to the cover. The Stylus Sling just helps to keep it secure, so it won't get lost. It would be expensive to replace, too, as the cost of the Apple Pencil 2 is $129.
We tested the Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil (12.9-inch and 11-inch) and are very happy with the results. It positions nicely on your cover or Smart Folio and gives you a secure place to stash your Apple Pencil keeping it from getting lost.
Don't risk losing your brand new Apple Pencil. The iPad Pro magnet is good for temporary charging, but a secure pocket is better to keep your new Pencil from getting lost.
We love the Apple Smart Folio and Smart Keyboard, as this is fits cleanly to the iPad Pro. It protects the back of the iPad Pro as well as covering the front. The Smart Keyboard Folio is better than the last generation, as it doesn't have the slightly confusing folding setup. This makes using it much easier.
What do you think of the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)? If you have some comments, leave them for us below.
]]>At Adobe Max 2018, Adobe showed its latest software and previews of some amazing-looking apps to help all creatives work anywhere with any device.
The announcement of Adobe Gemini, an illustration/painting app dedicated to recreating live paint on the iPad Pro was a very compelling preview. Now, they are giving that project a name, Adobe Fresco – due later this year.
Adobe is showing progress with their newest drawing and painting app, Project Gemini. It has now moved from the "project" stage to the full app. Their new app will be Adobe Fresco - a complete drawing and painting app for iPad and iPad Pro. They will add more devices after the initial launch (later this year).
Adobe Fresco is a sophisticated drawing and painting application that allows users to create with more realistic intent than ever before on a tablet. It creates a more natural feel of blending and painting color - more organic and not digital. The ability to mix "paints" directly on your artwork recreates the magic of using real paint, ridges and brush stokes give dimension to your digital artwork. This, along with multiple layers, masking and selections, you can work on your artwork as you have done in other Adobe application.
From oil paints, sketching and watercolors, they show how the blends, mixing and combining of different mediums react within your artwork. Watercolors bloom into adjacent color areas - even the ability to paint with water to dilute areas. Quite interesting!
Adobe has studied all different types of paint and the reaction of different substrates with those paints to "learn" how best to display and interact while your creating. Adobe Sensei is their AI behind all of the magic.
[Image: Adobe]
Because this is Adobe, it will interact with other Adobe application, such as Photoshop, Illustrator and Adobe Capture to create your live brushes! This opens up the possibilities and experimentation to create incredible artwork!
You can read their full release here: Adobe Fresco
Adobe is adding some users for pre-release testing, so sign up and hopefully you will get a chance to work with this amazing new application. Sign up here.
There are many options, but we are highlighting these 4 styluses: Apple Pencil, Logitech Crayon, Bamboo Solo/Duo, Adonit Pixel.
In our opinion, the Apple Pencil is the best stylus for any iPad. It set a new standard for stylus performance. Since the entire iPad family is compatible with the Apple Pencil (Generation 1 or 2) and it has pressure sensitivity, it's a clear winner. The pressure-sensitive tip has superior performance to create incredibly fine lines and allows for off-axis blending and creating wider strokes. Simply put, it's the most realistic drawing tool for a tablet. If you don't mind the price, go for it.
The 2nd Generation Pencil doesn't work with the iPad mini or Air, but the main difference between 1st and 2nd Generation is the charging method. 2nd Gen uses the easier magnet charging, where 1st Generation has a USB adapter with Lightning charging cable.
To attach the Apple Pencil to your iPad mini, the Stylus Sling is sized perfectly for your Smart Cover. The Stylus Sling allows you to keep your Apple Pencil on your iPad mini/Air and also have the USB adapter with you. It's the best way to secure your expensive stylus to your device.
The Logitech Crayon is another option with a lower price point. It has a super easy pairing method - just turn the Crayon on and tap it to the iPad screen. The Crayon doesn't have a pressure-sensitive tip, so it won't be the best option for serious illustrations, but for quick sketching and idea creation, it works nicely. Also, if you want one for note taking, the Crayon works well. It's wider than most styluses, but that can help you keep your grip on the stylus. The Stylus Sling Wide is a great holder for this wide stylus. |
Purchase on Amazon ~$9Purchase on Amazon ~$12
To secure it to your iPad mini or Air, the Stylus Sling is your best option. There are different sizes and widths to accommodate your stylus choice. Also for the Apple Pencil, the Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil has a USB adapter pocket the keep that close to your device too. That makes it super handy when you need to recharge.
]]>Apple has finally updated the iPad mini and iPad Air including Apple Pencil (1st Generation) support. This makes the iPad mini or the iPad Air a great device for portability and functionality! It can be your go to sketch pad, note-taker and reader – all in one! The iPad mini has the better portability, but if you need screen real estate, go with the iPad Air. The specs are about the same, but the iPad Air has added Smart Keyboard compatibility.
We are so happy to see the iPad mini get a nice update. The processor has a great upgrade from the iPad, going to the A12 Bionic chip (from the A10 Fusion chip). This extra speed bump makes it 3x faster than its predecessor, mini 4.
We haven't tested yet, but Apple boasts that it will run the upcoming Adobe Photoshop CC for iOS. That will make this little iPad a great compact tool to carry around.
Here are the latest specs for iPad mini (2019):
To keep your Apple Pencil on your cover:
|
Here's the specs for iPad Air (2019):
To keep your Apple Pencil on your iPad Air:
|
The Retina screen is a beauty and makes reading and doing work a treat. With its antireflective coating and sharp detail, each crisp pixel renders super-sharp text.
Apple Pencil comes to the miniThe Apple Pencil support is where the iPad mini shines! The ability to easily carry around a device that powerful and functional gives you the freedom to create anywhere. Full support of the 1st Generation Apple Pencil means you can sketch how you like and get full benefits of apps that are designed with the Apple Pencil in mind. Because this is the mini, your screen size can be a bit of an issue. But with apps like Adobe Draw and Sketch, you can start your work anywhere, then pick it up once you get back to your desk and import the projects into Illustrator or Photoshop. Once Photoshop CC for iOS (and Project Gemini) is released, that will change things once again! |
||
For your Apple Pencil, the Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil now comes in iPad mini size, so you can attach your Apple Pencil to your cover and hit the road. The Stylus Sling will keep your Apple Pencil secure and easy to access when inspiration strikes you. The great part is, it also holds the USB adapter for you - keeping it close for when you need to charge you Apple Pencil. We found for the iPad mini, the best placement for the Stylus Sling is on the far left panel of the cover. This helps to keep the magnet in the smaller cover on the iPad mini. There is also a Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil to fit the 10.5-inch iPad Air.
To sum it up, if you are looking for a nice digital sketch pad or notebook, the iPad mini 5th Generation is a great choice. With Apple Pencil support, you can mark up PDFs and notes or illustrate your next masterpiece. It's sized to fit easily in your bag, so you can always have it with you. Make sure your Apple Pencil stays on the cover with a Stylus Sling and you'll be all set to go!
Apple iPad mini:
https://www.apple.com/ipad-mini/
Apple iPad Air:
https://www.apple.com/ipad-air/
Apple Pencil 1st Generation:
https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MK0C2AM/A/apple-pencil
Apple Smart Covers:
https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MVQG2ZM/A/ipad-mini-smart-cover-papaya?fnode=9e
Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil:
]]>This video shows how to use the Stylus Sling for ApplePencil 2 and iPad Pro (2018). It illustrates the way to put the Stylus Sling on your iPad Pro Smart Folio cover and Smart Keyboard Folio.
]]>The initial difference with the Stylus Sling is between Stylus Sling and its competitors. Our products are designed and handmade locally in the USA. We work with local seamstresses to create a superior product made by people who specialize in textile stitching and clothing production. We continue to use our local stitchers to this day, creating every Stylus Sling we make. When we manufacture in the USA, not only are we avoiding long production and transportation times, we’re also investing in our local community of small businesses. It keeps us involved and hands-on throughout the manufacturing process to ensure quality products. This was a primary motivation in keeping it local – outsourcing to overseas production facilities isn't how we want to do our manufacturing.
The sizes listed for the Stylus Sling are related to the devices the Stylus Sling works with, not to the actual size of the Stylus Sling itself. For instance, the Stylus Sling 9.7/10.5/11-inch fits the 9.7" iPad/iPad Pro, 10.5" iPad Pro and the 11" iPad Pro, while the Stylus Sling 12.9-inch fits any of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro models (original thru newest generation).
These are general guides for size, as there are other devices that may work with certain sizes of Stylus Sling. An example of this is the Microsoft Surface, its screen size is 12.3", but the 12.9-inch Stylus Sling works with that device.
Because the Stylus Sling uses strong elastic material to conform to the device, it is sized to work with many device sizes. The difference between the Stylus Sling and other "one size fits all" stylus holders is ours is more targeted to devices giving a better fit on your iPad Pro or device.
We have different styles and versions of Stylus Sling to adapt to your style and need. Here are the key differences between all of the Stylus Sling versions:
Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil - Label versionThis is our main Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil. It has the brand logo label below the Apple Pencil pocket and covers the USB adapter pocket. While the USB adapter pocket isn't needed for Apple Pencil 2nd Generation, this is still our main Apple Pencil holder. Because of our unique design, the adapter pocket flattens completely when not using the adapter pocket. This is the reason for keeping the same design for both Apple Pencil versions. |
|
Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil - "Stitch" versionThe "Stitch" version has the branding label moved to the inside of the Stylus Sling and uses gray, black or white colored stitching to give sublime style and lets the Sling blend in to the cover. The Stylus Sling "Stitch" version works with both Apple Pencil 1st and 2nd Generation, along with any 9.9mm or thinner stylus. The stitching color surrounds the USB adapter pocket, but also offers a design element when used with Apple Pencil 2nd Generation or other stylus. |
||
Stylus Sling WideThe Stylus Sling Wide is made for wider styluses that are larger than 10mm diameter. These include Pencil 53, Logitech Crayon and also works with an Apple Pencil with a grip or sleeve on the stylus. |
|
Stylus Sling StandardThe Stylus Sling Standard works with thin styluses 9.9mm or thinner, but does not have the USB adapter pocket. This will work with the Samsung Galaxy S-Pen, Bamboo Solo/Duo and also the Apple Pencil 2nd Generation. Any thin stylus that doesn't require the USB adapter pocket will work with the Stylus Sling Standard. |
|
This gives an overview of our different versions and sizes of Stylus Sling. We hope this can answer some questions and help you pick just the right Stylus Sling to keep your stylus secure to your device.
Be sure to check out our selection page to help you match your stylus to the Stylus Sling to fit.
Read More]]>For one, the Smart Folio cover provides front and back protection for your new iPad Pro. This was always a complaint with the last Smart Cover. This addition costs a bit more, but it has a clean connection via magnets on the back and that does a better job of keeping the cover on than the previous Smart Cover.
Also, we like the Apple Smart Folio for its design aesthetic. As always, Apple keeps it clean and simple.
We found the Apple Pencil magnet on the iPad Pro best for charging the Pencil, but it can accidentally get detached when placing the iPad Pro in your bag on when on the go. To secure the Apple Pencil to the Smart Folio cover, the Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil does the job nicely. It fits cleanly to the middle panel on the cover and allows the cover to trigger "sleep mode". This is a great combination.
The Smart Folio covers the back and front of the iPad Pro (shown with the Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil) Buy Stylus Sling |
Apple Folio Cover with Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil | Apple Keyboard Folio and Smart Folio | Apple Keyboard Folio in second angle position |
By providing two viewing angles, the Smart Keyboard Folio is easier to use in different situations. The option to move the angle of the iPad Pro gives it a feel more like a MacBook, but it lacks a trackpad. This takes some getting use to, but it reminds you that the screen is touchable and you aren't using a laptop. It's just a shift in thinking that can take some getting used to.
The Smart Keyboard Folio attaches magnetically and pairs automatically with the iPad Pro. It always has charge, as the iPad Pro keeps it running with a smart connector that transfers power.
When you open the Keyboard, the iPad Pro wakes instantly and will go back to sleep if you close the case. Just like the Smart Folio, the case protects both the front and back of the iPad Pro.
As with the Smart Folio, the Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil is a great way to keep your Apple Pencil secure to the Keyboard. It secures to the left panel on the front cover and sits on the back of the keyboard when opened.
All in all, we believe the Apple Smart Folio and Smart Keyboard Folio are great options to keep your new iPad Pro protected and add keyboard functionality. Because of the power in the new iPad Pro, more apps will become full blown applications. Photoshop for iPad Pro is slated for release in the first half of 2019 and when these type of applications become ready, the iPad Pro could become your laptop replacement.
]]>
Compared to the original Apple Pencil, the Apple Pencil 2 is a bit shorter since there is no need for the lightning connector. This doesn't hurt usability, as it it still about the same length as a standard colored pencil, so it feels nice to draw with. It has a matte finish that makes it feel a bit grippier and it's lighter, so that helps with long days of drawing.
Apple Pencil 2 is so much easier to charge now by using the magnet, however the magnet does not offer enough support to keep it secure to your device when you're on the go. The Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil is the perfect solution for this problem and it fits the new Smart Keyboard Folio and Smart Folio perfectly! There are many times when putting the iPad Pro 2018 into a bag or backpack and the Apple Pencil 2 gets dislodged or knocked and falls off the magnet. We have also seen how it can come loose from the magnet when you grab the iPad Pro on the side where the Apple Pencil 2 is attached. This becomes annoying, so using the Stylus Sling re-positions the Apple Pencil 2 on to the cover. The Stylus Sling just helps to keep it secure, so it won't get lost. It would be expensive to replace, too, as the cost of the new Apple Pencil went up $129.
We tested the Stylus Sling for Apple Pencil (12.9-inch and 11-inch) and are very happy with the results. Don't risk losing your brand new Apple Pencil. The iPad Pro magnet is good for temporary charging, but a secure pocket is better to keep your new Pencil from getting lost.
In addition to these design and function changes, the Apple Pencil 2 introduces support for gestures. The cool double tap feature allows you to switch between tools in apps that support this gesture. This is very helpful because it allows for quick changes between a pencil and an eraser.
We love the new Apple Smart Folio and Smart Keyboard, as this is fits cleanly to the new iPad Pro. It protects the back of the iPad Pro as well as covering the front. The Smart Keyboard Folio is better than the last generation, as it doesn't have the slightly confusing folding setup. This makes using it much easier.
One thing to note is Apple Pencil 2 compatibility with iPad Pro (2018) - that is the only device it works with. You can't use the Apple Pencil 2 with an older iPad Pro. More surprising is Apple Pencil 1 can't be used with a new iPad Pro, even if you use a USB C-to-Lightning cable to pair with.
What do you think of the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)? If you have some comments, leave them for us below.
]]>
The Logitech Crayon is a stylus made for the 6th generation iPad. With its easy iPad pairing and simple charging port, the Logitech Crayon is a great option for your stylus. Since the Crayon is a wider stylus, it may have a better feel for some users.
The Stylus Sling Wide is a great stylus holder to keep your stylus close at hand.
]]>The Stylus Sling Wide is a great stylus holder to keep your stylus close at hand. Most stylus holders won't fit the wider styluses, but the Stylus Sling Wide works nicely. It fits onto you iPad cover and provides a handy pocket to protect your Crayon when you're out and about. It also keeps the Crayon securely attached and helps you keep the stylus easily accessible when inspiration comes to you.
The Logitech Crayon is available on Apple.com and the Stylus Sling Wide is available from stylussling.com.
]]>With Apple Pencil support and lower cost, the 6th Generation iPad is a great tablet for sketching in Adobe Draw or Adobe Sketch. Also, the power inside this iPad by far surpasses any of its predecessors. The A10 Fusion chip offers plenty of processing power for any daily tasks and sketch requirements.
This iPad has Touch-ID and comes in both Wi-Fi and Cellular options, so it's a solid choice for any portability needs. It slips nicely into your gig bag and with a Stylus Sling attached, you will always have access to your Apple Pencil when inspiration strikes you.
You also have many choices of styluses:
Apple Pencil, Logitech Crayon, Pencil 53, Bamboo Solo, Adonit Pixel and more. The Logitech Crayon has a nice feature of pairing without the need to plug it in - much like the new Apple Pencil (Gen 2), but costs only $69.95.
The new iPad Pro is a beautiful tablet, but costly. The iPad 6th Generation is a more affordable and can do so much of what is needed from a tablet.
See this info comparing the Apple iPad 9.7-inch (6ht Gen) and the other iPad Pro products.
]]>