Digital pens, or styluses, are used for handwriting, note-taking and drawing on the touchscreens of tablets, e-readers and laptops. Our range is small, with products from Logitech, Tolino, Inateck and Terra, plus one from Deqster.
Check device compatibility first, because a stylus that suits one device often does nothing on another.
How to choose a digital pen
Compatibility. Styluses rely on different technologies, and many work only with certain models or brands. Look for your exact device name in the product description rather than a general mention of tablets. Styluses for iPad usually work only with specific iPad generations, and e-reader makers often offer their own pens.
Active or passive. A passive stylus acts like a finger with a softer tip, which suits tapping and simple notes. An active stylus exchanges signals with the screen, so it can sense pressure and let you rest your palm on the display, both of which matter for handwriting and drawing.
Power. Some styluses need a rechargeable battery or a replaceable cell, while others need no power at all, such as pens using electromagnetic resonance technology on some tablets and e-readers. If the pen is rechargeable, check how it charges and how long it lasts between charges.
Tip and grip. Tips wear down over time, so check whether spare ones are available. A harder tip feels closer to pen on paper but can scratch a glossy screen, while a softer tip is gentler on the display. For long writing sessions, the thickness and weight of the pen also matter.
Digital pen brands in our range
- Logitech: known for computer peripherals, and for Crayon, a stylus made for iPad owners.
- Tolino: a German e-reader brand, so its styluses are usually meant for Tolino devices.
- Inateck: known for laptop and tablet sleeves, USB accessories and storage enclosures.
- Terra: the brand of Germany's Wortmann AG, which sells business PCs, laptops and tablets.
Also in our range: Deqster.
Digital pen FAQ
Will any digital pen work with my tablet?
No, the pen has to be compatible with your specific device. Screen technologies differ, so a stylus made for iPad usually will not work on an Android tablet or an e-reader. Compare your device name with the compatible models listed in the product description before buying.
What is the difference between an active and a passive stylus?
An active stylus communicates with the screen, while a passive one simply replaces your finger. An active pen senses pressure and allows palm rejection, which makes it better for handwriting and drawing. A passive stylus costs less and is enough for tapping and basic notes.
Does a digital pen need charging?
It depends on the type of pen. Some have a built-in battery or a replaceable cell, and others work without any power, such as electromagnetic resonance pens. Check the product description to see how a particular stylus is powered.
Can I use a digital pen for drawing as well as note-taking?
Yes, provided the pen is active and the screen responds to pressure. Line thickness then changes with how hard you press, which drawing needs. A simpler stylus draws lines of even thickness, which is enough for quick notes. The drawing or note-taking app must also support these features.
