Apple Pencil Pro Vs Adonit Note+: Which Stylus Should You Choose in 2024?
Choosing the right stylus can transform how you use your iPad. Whether you are an artist, student, or professional, the stylus you pick affects your workflow, comfort, and even creativity. Two big names in this space are the Apple Pencil Pro and the Adonit Note+. Both offer advanced features, but they are designed for different users and priorities. This article compares these two styluses in detail, so you can confidently decide which is the better fit for your needs.
Design And Build Quality
When you first pick up a stylus, how it feels in your hand matters. Let’s see how the Apple Pencil Pro and Adonit Note+ compare in this area.
Apple Pencil Pro
Apple is known for its minimalist design and attention to detail. The Apple Pencil Pro continues this tradition. It has a slim, matte-finished body and a seamless look. The weight distribution is balanced, making long drawing or writing sessions more comfortable. Its length (6.53 inches) and weight (about 20.7 grams) are almost identical to a regular pen, which helps reduce hand fatigue.
The magnetic attachment is another standout feature. The Apple Pencil Pro snaps to the side of compatible iPads, where it charges wirelessly and stays secure. This small detail reduces the chance of losing your stylus and keeps it ready to use.
Adonit Note+
The Adonit Note+ takes a different approach. It is slightly thicker and has a more pronounced grip area. This can feel more secure for users who prefer a larger stylus. The body is made from lightweight aluminum, and the tip is replaceable.
One unique aspect is that the Adonit Note+ uses a USB-C charging port. You need to remember to charge it separately, but the battery lasts a solid 10-12 hours per charge. The stylus does not attach magnetically to the iPad, so you’ll need a case or holder to keep it handy.
Comparison Table: Physical Features
| Feature | Apple Pencil Pro | Adonit Note+ |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 6.53 inches (166 mm) | 6.1 inches (155 mm) |
| Weight | 20.7 grams | 16 grams |
| Finish | Matte | Matte Aluminum |
| Charging Method | Magnetic Wireless | USB-C Wired |
| Magnetic Attachment | Yes | No |
Insight: Beginners often overlook the impact of a stylus’s size and weight on daily use. If you plan to write or draw for hours, even a few grams can make a difference in comfort.
Compatibility And Device Support
Not all iPads support every stylus, and compatibility can be a dealbreaker. Here’s how these two styluses compare.
Apple Pencil Pro
The Apple Pencil Pro is designed for the latest iPad models only. It works seamlessly with the newest iPad Pro (M4) and iPad Air (M2). This is due to advanced hardware and the magnetic wireless charging system. It will not work with older iPads or other devices.
Adonit Note+
The Adonit Note+ is more flexible. It supports a wider range of iPads, including some older models. For example, it works with iPad 6th/7th/8th/9th Gen, iPad Air 3rd Gen, iPad Mini 5th Gen, and many iPad Pros since 2018. However, it does not support iPhones or non-Apple tablets.
Important Note: Not every app supports pressure sensitivity or shortcut buttons with the Adonit Note+. Check the Adonit website for a full compatibility list before buying.
Insight: Many users buy a stylus only to discover it doesn’t work with their specific iPad. Double-check your iPad model before purchasing any stylus.
Writing And Drawing Experience
A stylus should feel like a real pen or pencil. Let’s see how these two compare for note-taking, sketching, and editing.
Apple Pencil Pro
The Apple Pencil Pro is famous for its low latency and near-instant response. When you write or draw, lines appear under the tip with almost no delay. Apple’s custom hardware and software integration make strokes feel natural and fluid.
Pressure sensitivity is precise and subtle. You can shade, sketch, or take notes with the same stylus, and the lines react to your hand pressure. Tilt sensitivity adds another layer: you can tilt the stylus for shading, just like with a real pencil.
New with the Pro model are haptic feedback and a “squeeze” gesture. The stylus vibrates slightly to confirm actions, and you can squeeze it to bring up tool menus in supported apps.
Adonit Note+
The Adonit Note+ also offers pressure sensitivity (over 2048 levels) and tilt support in many apps. The experience is impressive for its price and works well for note-taking and light sketching. However, you may notice a slight delay compared to the Apple Pencil Pro, especially in fast drawing apps.
Shortcut buttons on the Adonit Note+ allow quick actions, like erasing or undoing. While these are convenient, not every app supports them.
Comparison Table: Writing And Drawing Features
| Feature | Apple Pencil Pro | Adonit Note+ |
|---|---|---|
| Latency | Ultra-low (<9ms) | Low (approx. 20ms) |
| Pressure Levels | Native, highly responsive | 2048+ |
| Tilt Sensitivity | Yes | Yes (app-dependent) |
| Shortcut Buttons | No physical buttons | 2 customizable buttons |
| Haptic Feedback | Yes | No |
Non-Obvious Tip: Latency and pressure sensitivity may feel different depending on the app you use. Try your stylus in several apps before making your final judgment.
Features And Functionality
Modern styluses do more than just draw lines. Here is what sets the Apple Pencil Pro and Adonit Note+ apart.
Apple Pencil Pro
The Apple Pencil Pro brings some advanced features:
- Squeeze Gesture: You can squeeze the body to bring up tool menus in supported apps.
- Barrel Roll: Rotate the pencil to change the angle of your brush, adding a new layer to digital art.
- Haptic Feedback: Tiny vibrations let you know when you’ve made a selection or switched tools.
- Find My Support: You can locate your Apple Pencil Pro if you misplace it, thanks to Apple’s Find My network.
- Seamless Pairing: Just attach it to your iPad and start using it—no Bluetooth menus needed.
Adonit Note+
The Adonit Note+ focuses on practical features:
- Shortcut Buttons: Two side buttons can be set for common actions like erasing or undoing.
- Palm Rejection: Rest your hand on the screen without leaving marks.
- Pressure and Tilt: These are supported in many, but not all, creative apps.
- LED Indicator: Shows battery and connection status.
- Universal USB-C Charging: No need for a special charger.
Insight: The Apple Pencil Pro’s “Find My” feature is a lifesaver if you often lose small gadgets. The Adonit Note+’s shortcut buttons can speed up your workflow, but only if your favorite app supports them.
Battery Life And Charging
Running out of battery in the middle of a project can be frustrating. How do these styluses compare?
Apple Pencil Pro
The Apple Pencil Pro charges wirelessly when attached to the side of your iPad. It takes about 15 minutes for a full charge and offers up to 12 hours of active use. Even a quick 30-second charge can give you enough power for about 30 minutes of use.
You do not need to worry about cables or ports. The stylus is always charging when not in use, so it is almost always ready.
Adonit Note+
The Adonit Note+ uses a USB-C port for charging. It offers 10-12 hours of battery life on a full charge. A full charge takes about 1 hour. There is no wireless charging, so you must remember to plug it in. The LED indicator helps remind you when the battery is low.
Practical Tip: If you often forget to charge your devices, the Apple Pencil Pro’s wireless charging is a big advantage. For users who dislike Apple’s magnetic system, USB-C is universal and easy to replace.
App Support And Integration
A stylus is only as good as the apps it works with. Here’s what you need to know.
Apple Pencil Pro
Apple’s tight hardware and software integration means almost every major iPad app supports the Apple Pencil Pro’s advanced features. This includes:
- Procreate
- Notability
- GoodNotes
- Adobe Fresco
- Apple Notes
You get the best possible experience, including pressure and tilt sensitivity, haptic feedback, and gesture support.
Adonit Note+
The Adonit Note+ is compatible with many popular apps, but support for advanced features can be inconsistent. Pressure and tilt work in apps like Concepts, Zen Brush 2, and Medibang Paint, but may not in others. Shortcut buttons also need app-level support.
Real-World Example: If you mainly use Procreate, the Apple Pencil Pro is the clear winner. If you use a wide range of apps, double-check feature lists before buying the Adonit Note+.
Price And Value
Price is always a factor, especially for students and hobbyists. Here’s how these two styluses compare in terms of cost and value.
Apple Pencil Pro
The Apple Pencil Pro is a premium device, usually priced around $129 (as of June 2024). For that price, you get the best possible iPad stylus experience, but it only works with the latest iPads. Extra features like haptic feedback and Find My support add value for power users.
Adonit Note+
The Adonit Note+ is much more affordable, usually selling for $60–$70. It offers pressure sensitivity, shortcut buttons, and good build quality. If you don’t need the absolute lowest latency or every advanced feature, it’s a strong value.
Buyer Mistake to Avoid: Don’t buy based on price alone. A cheaper stylus that doesn’t support your apps or iPad will waste more money in the long run.
User Experience And Real-world Feedback
Technical specs are important, but user feedback reveals the daily reality of using each stylus.
Apple Pencil Pro
Most users praise the smoothness and reliability. Artists say the Apple Pencil Pro feels the closest to using a real pencil or brush. The seamless pairing and charging are also favorites. Some users mention the price is high, but most agree the features justify the cost if you use your iPad for creative work daily.
Adonit Note+
Users of the Adonit Note+ highlight its value for money and reliable basic performance. The shortcut buttons and palm rejection are praised in supported apps. Some users notice a minor delay when drawing quickly or frustration with inconsistent app support for advanced features.
Non-Obvious Drawback: The Adonit Note+ does not support the “double-tap to switch tools” gesture found in Apple Pencils, which some artists miss after switching.
Durability And Maintenance
Styluses can take a beating in bags or busy workspaces. How do these two hold up over time?
Apple Pencil Pro
The Apple Pencil Pro’s body is robust, and the magnetic attachment keeps it safe when not in use. The tip is replaceable and designed to last months, even with heavy use. The matte finish resists fingerprints and scratches.
Adonit Note+
The Adonit Note+ is also solidly built. The aluminum body resists dents, and the tip can be replaced. However, some users report the USB-C port can become loose with frequent plugging and unplugging. The finish can show wear if carried in a bag without a case.
Tip: Replace your stylus tip regularly for best performance. Worn tips can cause skipping or scratches on your screen.
Which Stylus Is Best For You?
The best stylus depends on your device, budget, and needs.
- Choose the Apple Pencil Pro if you have a new iPad, want the best drawing and writing experience, and use supported creative apps daily. The extra features, seamless integration, and reliability make it worth the price for many.
- Choose the Adonit Note+ if you want good pressure sensitivity and palm rejection at a lower price, especially if you use an older iPad or don’t need every advanced feature.
Not all features are equal in every app or workflow. Consider what matters most to you—latency, pressure sensitivity, shortcut buttons, or price—before making your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Apple Pencil Pro Worth The Extra Money Compared To Adonit Note+?
If you use your iPad for professional art, design, or lots of handwriting, the Apple Pencil Pro’s low latency, advanced gestures, and seamless integration justify the higher price. For more casual users, the Adonit Note+ offers great value.
Do Both Styluses Support Wireless Charging?
No. Only the Apple Pencil Pro supports wireless charging via magnetic attachment to compatible iPads. The Adonit Note+ charges with a USB-C cable.
Can I Use These Styluses With Any Ipad Model?
No. The Apple Pencil Pro works only with the latest iPad Pro (M4) and iPad Air (M2). The Adonit Note+ supports a wider range of recent iPads but not all. Always check compatibility before buying.
Which Stylus Is Better For Note-taking?
Both are good for note-taking, but the Apple Pencil Pro offers a more natural writing feel, instant pairing, and better palm rejection. The Adonit Note+ is solid for notes but may have slightly more latency in some apps.
Where Can I Find A Full List Of Compatible Apps For Adonit Note+?
You can find the most up-to-date list of supported apps on the Adonit official website.
Choosing between the Apple Pencil Pro and Adonit Note+ is not just about specs—it’s about how you use your iPad every day. Take your time, consider what features matter most, and invest in a tool that will support your creativity and productivity for years to come.
