Head-to-head · Best Ipad Stylus Alternatives

Apple Pencil Pro / Apple Pencil (USB-C) vs Tinymoose Pencil Pro Ultra

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Tinymoose Pencil Pro Ultra comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.4 vs 4.2). Tinymoose Pencil Pro Ultra is best for: iPad owners who also want a fine-tipped stylus for an iPhone, for notes and sketches rather than pressure-sensitive artwork. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #4 in Best Ipad Stylus Alternatives

Apple Pencil Pro / Apple Pencil (USB-C)

4.2

1 source$19as of Oct 10

The Apple Pencil (USB-C) offers a refined design that bridges the gap between first and second-generation models, delivering familiar performance with modern USB-C connectivity. PCMag's Eric Zeman noted its comfortable, familiar feel and precise functionality, while YouTube reviewers highlighted its cap design and charging method. However, it lacks wireless charging and the double-tap tool switching found in the premium version. This pencil is ideal for users seeking a balance of functionality and modern connectivity without the premium price tag, though those wanting wireless features may want to consider the second-generation model.

Strengths

— Feels nearly identical to the second-generation Apple Pencil in terms of build and comfort
— Supports USB-C charging and pairing, offering a more modern connection method
— Maintains the same precision and responsiveness as previous models

Watch-outs

— Lacks wireless charging capability, a feature found in the second-generation model
— No double-tap tool switching functionality present on the newer model

$19 · Buy at apple.com Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Ipad Stylus Alternatives

Tinymoose Pencil Pro Ultra

4.4

1 source$50as of Oct 10

The Tinymoose Pencil Pro Ultra is a USB-C stylus that works with both iPad and iPhone, switching between them with the button on its end. Cult of Mac rated it 4.5 stars out of 5, calling that switch "a standout feature" and the stylus "a fine tool for sketching out ideas, signing documents or even taking meeting notes." The same review describes it as "a tool for average users, not artists": the tilt detection Tinymoose advertises did not work in any app the reviewer tried, and it lacks the pressure detection and squeeze gesture of the Apple Pencil Pro.

Strengths

— Palm rejection and no lag on iPad, which Cult of Mac attributes to iPadOS's built-in stylus support
— Attaches magnetically to iPads that support the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C)
— About 10 hours of battery life, a Tinymoose claim Cult of Mac's testing found reasonable

Watch-outs

— Advertised tilt detection did not work in any app Cult of Mac tried, including Procreate
— Missing features that digital artists need, per Cult of Mac
— Does not draw power from the iPad; it charges over USB-C

$50 · Buy at tinymoose.co Full review →

How they stack up

Apple Pencil Pro / Apple Pencil (USB-C)

The Apple Pencil Pro / Apple Pencil (USB-C) bridges the gap between first and second-generation models, offering familiar performance with modern USB-C connectivity. Unlike the standard Apple Pencil (USB-C), it maintains the same precision and responsiveness as previous models, but lacks the wireless charging and double-tap tool switching found in the premium second-generation version.

Tinymoose Pencil Pro Ultra

Cult of Mac wrote that it "competes well against the Apple Pencil (USB-C)" and costs less, and that unlike either Apple Pencil it also works on an iPhone. It lacks the tilt and pressure detection and the squeeze gesture that Cult of Mac credits to the Apple Pencil Pro.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Apple Pencil Pro / Apple Pencil (USB-C)	Tinymoose Pencil Pro Ultra
Connectivity	USB-C	—
Charging Method	USB-C	—
Compatibility	all iPads that have a USB-C port and that are running iOS 17.1 or later	iPad (2018 and newer, per Tinymoose) and iPhone
Weight	0.72 ounce	—
Tip Size	8.9 mm	—
Battery Life	up to 12 hours	10 hours (Tinymoose claim)
Material	Aluminum	—
Dimensions	6.1 x 0.3 x 0.3 inches	—
Charging	—	USB-C
Length	—	6.5 inches
Colors	—	White, black
In the Box	—	Carrying case, two replacement tips

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