Apple Pencil lagging? Try these fixes

⚡ Fast fix

• Make sure the Apple Pencil® is charged. It won't work if it has a dead battery.
• Verify that it's paired to your iPad®. Place it on the magnetic connector or plug it into its cable.
• Give your iPad a quick refresh. Restarting your device clears out temporary bugs that cause the Apple Pencil to glitch.
• Tighten the tip. A loose tip can lead to lag and skipping.

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You're carefully taking notes on your iPad during class, but your Apple Pencil isn't acting like it normally does. Instead of smoothly transferring your writing to the notepad, you notice delays and skips. Why is my Apple Pencil lagging, you wonder?

Don't worry—Asurion Experts are used to fixing frustrating technical issues like this one. From explaining how to fix an Apple Pencil that won't charge to learning how to check your iPad model, we deliver advice you can trust. Here's what to do when you're dealing with slow Apple Pencil responsiveness.

Why is my Apple Pencil lagging?

Apple Pencil lag is usually caused by one of these issues:

• Low battery: Performance may decline when the Pencil battery is near depletion.
• Bluetooth problems: Disconnects can cause the Pencil to skip or lag.
• Outdated software: Using an iPad or Pencil with older system software may cause glitches.
• Loose or worn Apple Pencil tip: Regular use can result in a damaged or loose tip over time.
• Dirty screen protectors: Grime can interfere with the Pencil's sensitive sensors.
• Settings conflicts: Accessibility settings such as AssistiveTouch and Touch Accommodations are known causes of lag and glitches.

How to fix a lagging Apple Pencil

To stop Apple Pencil glitching, try these troubleshooting options one by one.

Check your Apple Pencil battery

You can view the battery level whenever you charge your Apple Pencil. Simply attach it to the magnetic connector on your iPad or plug it into its adapter, and a pop-up appears with its current charge level.

If you missed the pop-up, you can also view the charge through the Settings app. Follow these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Bluetooth and make sure it's turned on.
3. Locate Apple Pencil in the device list and tap the information (i) icon.

Performance issues are common when the battery level gets low. If this is your issue, give it some time to recharge before trying to use it again.

Reconnect your Apple Pencil

A disruption to Bluetooth can affect Apple Pencil responsiveness. To fix this, switch Bluetooth off and on again. This forces the iPad to reconnect your Apple Pencil and clears out temporary glitches.

Restart and update your iPad

Shut down your iPad and turn it back on. Then, check to see if there are any available updates:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap General > Software Update.
3. Tap Download and Install if updates are available.

If the lagging only occurs when using certain apps, update them, too. Take these steps:

1. Open App Store.
2. Tap your profile.
3. Tap App Updates. Tap Update next to the app you're having problems with.

Check the Apple Pencil tip and screen protector

A loose or worn Apple Pencil nib won't work like it did when it was new. Give it a once-over to make sure it's still in optimal condition, and tighten it if it's loose. Consider replacing the tip if it's noticeably worn down.

Another common cause of lagging is the screen protector. Thick and poor-quality protectors can interfere with the Pencil's sensor capabilities. If you suspect the screen protector is causing your issues, you may want to purchase a different one.

What to do if your Apple Pencil only lags in certain apps

If you only notice the lagging issue in a specific app such as Goodnotes, Notability, or Procreate, try testing the Pencil in other apps. A Pencil that works well outside the app you're trying to use indicates a problem with that specific application, not with your device. You may be able to fix this by updating the app.

When Apple Pencil lag could be a hardware problem

You may have a hardware issue with your Apple Pencil or iPad if it continues to skip or lag in multiple applications after trying the troubleshooting options. At this point, you'll want to check in with an experienced tech advisor for support.

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FAQ

Why is my Apple Pencil glitching when I write?

Common reasons include outdated software, a loose tip, and a low battery. Address these issues to see if they fix the glitches.

Why is my Apple Pencil lagging in Goodnotes?

You may need to update Goodnotes. Use the Settings app to search for available app updates.

How do I fix a delayed Apple Pencil?

Try restarting your iPad and re-pairing the Apple Pencil. This creates a fresh connection that may stop lags.

Can an Apple Pencil tip cause lag?

If the Apple Pencil tip is worn or loose, it may cause lags. Tighten it to see if that resolves the problem.