Best Digital Pens of 2026

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2026

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Digital pens are a great tool for those who prefer to take handwritten notes, but also want the convenience of digital storage. These pens allow users to write on a physical surface, while simultaneously recording the writing digitally. Some digital pens even come equipped with features like Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to easily transfer their notes to a computer or other digital device. With a variety of options on the market, including those designed specifically for artists or those with handwriting recognition software, there is a digital pen to suit nearly any need.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

HP Rechargeable MPP 2.0 Tilt Pen for Touch Screen Devices Cover #TOP 1
HP Rechargeable MPP 2.0 Tilt Pen for Touch Screen Devices
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Surface Slim Pen 2 - Touchscreen Tablet Pen Cover #TOP 2
Surface Slim Pen 2 - Touchscreen Tablet Pen
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Wacom KP504E Pro Pen 2 with Case Cover #TOP 3
Wacom KP504E Pro Pen 2 with Case
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Digital Pens

#TOP 1

HP Rechargeable MPP 2.0 Tilt Pen for Touch Screen Devices

HP
3J122AA
Black
6-in
HP Rechargeable MPP 2.0 Tilt Pen for Touch Screen Devices Cover
HP Active Rechargeable Tilt Pen MPP 2

The HP Rechargeable MPP 2.0 Tilt Pen for Touch Screen Devices offers a smoother writing experience with its improved MPP 2.0 Technology. With only 9g of pressure, users can experience pen-point accuracy for editing, drawing, writing or doodling. The customizable pen controls and indicator for charging make using the pen easy and efficient. Additionally, the compact design allows for easy storage.

What We Like
Instant connection and setup
Accurate tip and pressure sensitivity
Strong compatibility with HP laptops
Durable build quality
Easy charging and extra tip included
What We Don't Like
Limited documentation
Button customization not available
#TOP 2

Surface Slim Pen 2 - Touchscreen Tablet Pen

8WV-00001
Matte Black
Surface Slim Pen 2 - Touchscreen Tablet Pen Cover
Microsoft Surface Slim Pen 2 Matte Black - Bluetooth 5.0 Connectivity - 4,096 points of pressure sensitivity - Create in real time with zero force inking - Take notes naturally with haptic motor - Sha

The Surface Slim Pen 2 is a sleek, comfortable, and highly responsive digital pen designed for use with the Surface Pro 8, Surface Pro X, Surface Laptop Studio, and Surface Duo 2. The haptic motor provides a realistic writing experience, while the zero force inking and improved pen tip design ensure ultra-precise tilting, shading, and 4,096 points of pressure sensitivity. With the Surface Slim Pen 2, you can take notes naturally, control feedback levels, and increase productivity.

What We Like
Sturdy design and construction
Accurate handwriting and drawing
Instant, seamless device connection
Long battery life
Customizable button functions
What We Don't Like
No included charger
Flat design slightly awkward to hold
#TOP 3

Wacom KP504E Pro Pen 2 with Case

KP-504E-00DZ
black
Wacom KP504E Pro Pen 2 with Case Cover
Wacom KP504E Pro Pen 2 with Case, Black

The Wacom KP504E Pro Pen 2 with Case is a digital pen compatible with various Wacom devices. It offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, providing a natural and precise drawing experience. Additionally, it comes with a protective case that includes three nibs and a nib removal hole, ensuring the safety of the pen when not in use.

What We Like
Sturdy protective case
Excellent pen pressure sensitivity
Extra pen nibs included
Comfortable ergonomic grip
Compatible with Wacom tablets
What We Don't Like
High price point
Bulkier case design
#TOP 4

Wacom CP202A02A Dr. Grip Digital Pen

DTU1141B
Black
Wacom CP202A02A Dr. Grip Digital Pen Cover
Wacom CP202A02A Pilot Dr. Grip Digital Pen for Wacom - CP202A02A (Black)

The Wacom Dr. Grip Pen is designed to keep you comfortable during long creative sessions, so you can draw or write without hand fatigue. Its battery-free design means you won’t have to worry about charging, allowing you to stay productive without interruptions. With 4096 pressure levels and tilt sensitivity, this pen lets you create precise, natural strokes, making your digital artwork or notes look smooth and accurate. Whether you’re sketching or writing, the Wacom Dr. Grip Pen offers a reliable and comfortable tool to enhance your digital creativity.

What We Like
Comfortable thick grip
Durable nib
Retractable click mechanism
Good screen writing feel
Works with multiple devices
What We Don't Like
No eraser
No clip or magnet
#TOP 5

Microsoft Surface Slim Pen

LLK-00001
Slim
Microsoft Surface Slim Pen Cover
New Microsoft Surface Slim Pen

The Microsoft Slim Pen offers a sleek and lightweight design that makes it comfortable to hold and easy to control, perfect for long creative sessions. You can tilt the pen’s tip to shade your drawings naturally, just like using a real graphite pencil, which adds depth and realism to your work. On the other end, there’s an eraser that lets you quickly fix mistakes without switching tools, saving you time. Writing with this pen feels very natural, mimicking pen on paper with a precise tip that supports tilt, giving you smooth and accurate inking for notes or sketches.

What We Like
Comfortable ergonomic design
Smooth screen glide
Rechargeable battery
Magnetic attachment
Great handwriting and drawing experience
What We Don't Like
Limited color options
Battery life could be longer
#TOP 6

HUION PW517 Pen Tech 3.0 Stylus Bundle

PW517
Black
HUION PW517 Pen Tech 3.0 Stylus Bundle Cover
HUION PW517 Pen Tech 3.0 Battery-Free Stylus Bundle with 10 Felt Nibs PN05F for Kamvas Pro 16 (2.5K) & Kamvas 13

The HUION PW517 Stylus offers a battery-free design that lets you work without worrying about charging. It uses advanced EMR technology, providing 8192 pressure levels and a 60-degree tilt function, so you can create detailed and natural-looking artwork with ease. This stylus is compatible with many Huion devices, including Kamvas and Inspiroy models, giving you versatile use across your tools. Plus, it comes with 10 upgraded PN05F felt nibs that feel like a real pencil, offering a smooth, high-friction drawing experience that enhances your control and precision.

What We Like
Works with Kamvas 22 Plus
Backup stylus option
Good drawing performance
Includes extra nibs
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Slightly loose buttons
#TOP 7

Microsoft Surface Pen 1776

EYU-00001
Black
0.04 lbs (20g)
Microsoft Surface Pen 1776 Cover
Microsoft Surface Pen, Charcoal Black, Model: 1776 (EYU-00001)

The Microsoft Pen is a digital pen that allows you to write and draw naturally on your Surface devices. With 4,096 pressure points, you can precisely sketch and shade with the lightest touch. The pen's reduced lag and low latency ensures that ink flows out in real-time with no delay. This feature makes it easy to take notes or create illustrations without any lag. The Microsoft Pen is compatible with a wide range of apps including OneNote, Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite, Sketchable, Bluebeam Revue, Drawboard, CorelDraw, and Staff pad. With its precise sketching and shading capabilities, the Microsoft Pen is perfect for artists and designers who want to create without limits.

What We Like
Excellent writing and drawing accuracy
Strong magnetic attachment
Comfortable, pen-like feel
Seamless app integration
Durable build quality
What We Don't Like
Slightly bulky for some users
Battery type not widely available
#TOP 8

Microsoft Surface Pen, Silver (3XY-00001)

3XY-00001
Silver
Microsoft Surface Pen, Silver (3XY-00001) Cover
Microsoft Surface Pen, Silver (3XY-00001) for Surface 3; Surface Pro 3 & 4; Surface Book

The Microsoft Surface Pen is a digital pen designed to work seamlessly with Surface 3, Surface Pro 3 and 4, and Surface Book. It is built for Windows Ink (Active), allowing you to write and draw as naturally as with a pen and paper. The pen is lightweight, weighing only 0.64 ounces, making it easy to hold for extended periods. Its dimensions are 0.4 x 0.37 x 5.67 inches, which fits comfortably in your hand. The silver color gives it a sleek and professional look. With the Surface Pen, you can take notes, sketch, and create in an instant, making it a perfect accessory for artists, designers, and professionals alike.

What We Like
Magnetic attachment
Multiple interchangeable tips
Natural writing experience
Responsive eraser function
Easy pairing process
What We Don't Like
Minor tip response issues
Confusing product information
#TOP 9

Wacom Nibs DTC133 Extra Tips CP91300B2Z

CP91300B2Z
black, white
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Wacom Nibs DTC133 Extra Tips CP91300B2Z Cover
Wacom Nibs DTC133 Extra Tips CP91300B2Z

The Wacom Extra Pen Tips are designed to enhance your experience with a Wacom digital pen. These tips let you write, sign documents, and take notes naturally, just like using a regular pen and paper. If you enjoy sketching, drawing, or painting on your screen, these tips provide the precision and feel you need for your creative projects. They are especially helpful for making your digital pen feel more comfortable and responsive, improving your overall control and accuracy. Whether for work or art, these extra tips help you get the most out of your Wacom digital pen.

What We Like
Wide device compatibility
Durable nibs
Comfortable ergonomic design
Natural drawing experience
Includes extra nibs
What We Don't Like
Possible screen scratching
No nib removal tool included
#TOP 10

ifeli Silicone Tip Cover for Apple Pencil

IFELI
IF00033
ifeli Silicone Tip Cover for Apple Pencil Cover
ifeli Silicone Tip Cover for Apple Pencil, High Friction, 8 Pack [Compatible with Apple Pencil, 1st and 2nd Generation, Replacement, Nib, Not Too Slip, Writing, Thin Design, Easy Installation] IF00033

The ifeli Apple Pencil Tip Cover is designed to fit the 1st and 2nd generation Apple Pencil models, including the USB-C version. It offers a high-friction surface that helps you work on detailed projects, like blueprints, with greater precision and control. The silicone material also reduces the noise created while drawing or writing, making your experience quieter and more enjoyable. Thanks to its thin design, you’ll find it comfortable to use without losing the natural feel of your Apple Pencil. Plus, installation is simple—just slip the cover over the tip, and you’re ready to go.

What We Like
High friction surface
Noise reduction
Thin, comfortable design
Easy installation
Buying Guide Image

The Basics of Choosing the Digital Pens

Introduction

Digital pens, also known as smart pens, are a modern variation of the traditional pen and paper. These pens are designed to capture your handwriting in a digital format, allowing you to easily transfer your notes and sketches to a computer or mobile device. While digital pens can be a useful tool for students, professionals, and artists alike, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. In this article, we will discuss some of the key factors to consider when choosing a digital pen.

Compatibility

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a digital pen is compatibility. Not all digital pens are compatible with all devices, so it's important to make sure that the pen you choose is compatible with your computer, smartphone, or tablet. Most digital pens are designed to work with specific operating systems, such as Windows, MacOS, iOS, or Android. Some pens may also require special software or apps to be installed on your device in order to work properly.

Features

Another important factor to consider when choosing a digital pen is the features it offers. Some pens may have advanced features such as pressure sensitivity, allowing you to create thin and thick lines depending on how hard you press the pen against the paper. Other pens may have built-in sensors that can detect the angle at which the pen is being held, allowing for more precise control. Some pens may also come with additional features such as a built-in eraser or a laser pointer for presentations.

Battery Life

Another important factor to consider is the battery life of the digital pen. Most digital pens are powered by a rechargeable battery, but the battery life can vary greatly between different models. Some pens may last for several days on a single charge, while others may only last for a few hours. If you plan on using your digital pen frequently, it's a good idea to choose one with a long battery life.

Price

Finally, price is also a factor to consider when choosing a digital pen. Digital pens can range in price from under $100 to several hundred dollars. While it's generally a good idea to choose a high-quality pen, it's also important to consider your budget. If you're a student or a casual user, you may not need all the advanced features offered by more expensive pens. In this case, it may be more cost-effective to choose a simpler and more affordable model.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right digital pen can be a challenging task. To make the best decision, it's important to consider factors such as compatibility, features, battery life, and price. By carefully considering these factors, you can find a digital pen that meets your needs and fits your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does a digital pen do?

A digital pen is an input device that captures handwriting or brushstrokes and converts them into digital data. This allows the information to be used in various applications and eliminates the need for manual transcription or scanning.

2. Are smart pens worth it?

Smart pens offer several benefits, such as easy access to recorded lectures by tapping on specific words, convenient storage, organization, searchability, and sharing of digitized notes. They can save time and enhance productivity, making them worth considering for individuals who frequently take notes or attend lectures.

3. Do digital pens work on phones?

Yes, there are digital pens, such as the Adonit Dash 4 or the KECOW Active Stylus Pen, that are designed to work with Android tablets, smartphones from various brands, and Apple devices. These pens provide a versatile stylus option for touchscreen devices.

4. How do you write with a digital pen?

To write with a digital pen, you need a graphics tablet or a digital writing pad connected to your computer. Download apps that allow you to write and draw on your computer screen, and then you can use the pen for presentations, drawing, or teaching purposes.

5. Do digital pens work on all touch screens?

Yes, digital pens with passive or capacitive stylus technology can work on any touch screen device that responds to finger touch. This makes them compatible with a wide range of devices, ensuring versatility and usability.

6. Do all smart pens require special paper?

Not all smart pens require special paper. Some smart pens have built-in technology to record what you write, while others may rely on special paper, tablets, or smartphones to capture the information. The choice of smart pen depends on individual preferences and requirements.

7. What can I use as a digital pen?

If you don't have a digital pen, you can create a makeshift one using common household items. All you need is a pen with a removable ink cartridge, a cotton bud or Q-tip, tin or aluminum foil, and some tape. This DIY digital pen can be a temporary solution for basic digital writing needs.

8. What are the disadvantages of Smartpen?

Some disadvantages of smart pens include shorter battery life compared to other brands, higher cost for certain smart notebooks like Moleskin, and potentially lower internal storage capacity compared to other smart pens. These drawbacks should be considered when choosing a smart pen.

Editor's Notes

During our digital pen research, we found 24 digital pen products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 40,751 customer reviews through our big data system to write the digital pens list. We found that most customers choose digital pens with an average price of $64.36.

The digital pens are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of digital pens, including HP, Microsoft, Wacom, HUION, IFELI. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

Digital Pens Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
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#TOP5
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#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand HP Microsoft Wacom Wacom Microsoft HUION Microsoft Microsoft Wacom IFELI
Color Black Matte Black black Black Slim Black Black Silver black, white Black, White, Pink, Mint
Are Batteries Included
Batteries Required?
Material Aluminum Metal, Plastic Aluminum Rubber Graphite Felt Rubber Silver Paper -
Compatible Devices Laptop, Tablet Surface Duo 2, Surface Pro 8, Surface Pro 9, Surface Pro Laptop Studio, Surface Pro X Tablet Wacom One (DTC133W0A), Wacom One 12 (DTC121W0A), Wacom One 12 - Display only (DTC121W2A), Wacom One 13 touch (DTH134W2A), Wacom One 13 touch - Display only (DTH134W0A) - Tablet Surface Book,Surface Book 2, Surface Studio 1st Gen, Surface Studio 2, Surface Laptop 1st Gen, Surface Laptop 2, Surface Go, Surface Pro 3, Surface Pro 4, Surface Pro 5th Gen, Surface Pro 6, Surface Pro 7, Surface Pro X, Surface 3, Pen Tip Kit microsoft-surface-pro Wacom One (DTC-133) Smartphone
Item dimensions L x W x H 5.89 x 0.37 x 0.37 inches 7.96 x 2.06 x 0.75 inches 7.28 x 0.75 x 0.75 inches 5.63 x 0.56 x 0.56 inches 5.23 x 0.44 x 0.25 inches - 0.93 x 2.01 x 6.97 inches 5.67 x 0.37 x 0.4 inches 8.31 x 2.24 x 0.91 inches 0.35 x 0.2 x 0.2 inches
Item Weight 13.61 g 13.61 g 0.06 Kilograms 14.97 g 9.07 g - 20 Grams 22.68 g 1.76 ounces -
Battery Description - Lithium_Polymer, Lithium_Ion - Battery-free AAAA Battery-Free - AAAA Alkaline -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy