Styluses

Check device compatibility (capacitive touchscreen vs. active/stylus-supported tablets), required features (pressure sensitivity, tilt, palm rejection), and whether the stylus needs Bluetooth or a specific protocol (e.g., Wacom, Apple Pencil protocol)

Passive (capacitive) styluses are simple tips that mimic a finger and usually have no electronics, while active styluses include sensors and firmware to provide pressure sensitivity, tilt detection, lower latency, and sometimes buttons or erasers

Stylus prices commonly range from budget options under $30 to premium models over $100; price is influenced by compatibility, pressure levels, tilt support, build materials, included tips or chargers, and brand reputation

Pressure sensitivity improves line weight and dynamics for drawing and handwriting; tilt support adds natural shading capability. For basic note-taking, a non-pressure stylus may suffice, but creatives typically prefer pressure and tilt

Battery life varies: some active styluses use rechargeable batteries with USB-C or magnetic chargers lasting from several hours to days of use, while others use replaceable coin cells that can last weeks to months depending on usage

Replace worn tips according to manufacturer guidance, keep the tip and screen clean to avoid scratches, update firmware if supported, and store or charge the stylus per instructions to preserve battery health

Cross-compatibility depends on the stylus technology; universal capacitive styli work on most touchscreens but lack advanced features, while active styli often require specific device support and may not provide full functionality on other brands