How to Fix Apple Pencil Keeps Disconnecting from iPad?

Updated by Brian Davis on Feb 27, 2026 • Category: iOS & iPhone Tips
7 mins read

If your Apple Pencil keeps disconnecting from iPad, you're not alone. The Apple Pencil gives you better control and accuracy than a regular stylus, helping you work without using your fingers. But many users face connection issues. If it keeps dropping out, don't worry—there are simple ways to fix it. The key is to find out why the disconnection happens first. Once you identify the cause, reconnecting your Apple Pencil is quick and easy.

apple pencil keeps disconnecting from ipad

Part 1. Why Does Apple Pencil Keep Disconnecting from iPad

As with any technology, there can be hiccups and malfunctions from time to time. In this regard, the Apple pencil is no exception. Using an Apple pencil requires a combination of the device itself working well and additional technologies, like Bluetooth, functioning properly.

Your Apple pencil might lose connection while in use for a number of reasons. Some of the explanations are as follows.

  • 01 There is a physical problem with the Apple pencil, such as a broken or loose tip.
  • 02 The Bluetooth feature is disabled.
  • 03 The Apple pencil's battery has finally given out.
  • 04 The Bluetooth connection isn't working.

Once you've determined why your Apple pencil keeps going missing, you can fix the problem by following the steps mentioned below.

Part 2. 8 Methods to Fix iPad Apple Pencil Disconnecting

Here, we will go over some of the easiest methods that you can try to ensure that your Apple Pencil doesn't keep disconnecting from your iPad. Starting with the first one that is…

Method 1. Tighten the Nib

The Apple pencil's nib is removable and replaceable since it can and will wear out over time. Each Apple pencil also includes a spare nib in case you ever need to swap it. Because it's easily replaceable, it might also become loose over time. If the pencil's nib is loose, the iPad won't be able to read it.

For this reason, you should make sure the nib on your Apple pencil is secure.

If you turn the nib in a clockwise direction, you can make it snug. You shouldn't have to use much force, and it doesn't require much work. Simply ensure that it is on and securely fastened.

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Method 2. Ensure the Bluetooth Is On

It is very natural to accidentally turn the Bluetooth off in various situations. On the other hand, this might be the reason why your Apple pencil won't pair with the iPad. So, it is wise to always double check and make sure your Bluetooth is turned on.

  • Step 1. Swipe down on the right upper corner of the screen to open the Control Center. Here you can check to see whether the Bluetooth is turned off on your device.
  • Step 2. In case you do not have access to that option, go to Settings and navigate to the Bluetooth tab.
  • Step 3. Toggle the button to turn the Bluetooth back on.
  • turn on bluetooth

Method 3. Charge the Pencil

If your Apple pencil won't stay connected to your device, the problem can lie in the battery, and the solution is as easy as plugging it in to charge. If you have an Apple pencil from the first generation, you need to remove the cap off the bottom of the device and then put it into the charging port on your iPad.

If you have an Apple pencil of the second generation, all you have to do is link it to the connection on the side of your iPad, making sure that the point of the pencil is pointing toward the volume controls. The battery widget on your iPad allows you to check the percentage of the battery at any time.

charge the pencil

Method 4. Replace the Pencil Tip

It's also possible that your Apple pencil is defective in some irreparable manner. It's possible that something has failed inside the circuitry, even though externally everything seems to be normal.

Whether your Apple pencil keeps disengaging, swapping it out with a different pencil is one approach to determine if the problem is with the pencil or the iPad. Try out a different pencil in an Apple Store, or use one you already have.

replace the pencil tip

Method 5. Restart the iPad

Sometimes, for no apparent reason, a piece of hardware can fail to work correctly or connect to another piece of hardware in the correct manner. When anything like this occurs, you should typically restart the device. It is a method that is used by the vast majority of Bluetooth devices, including mobile phones, automobiles, and AirPods.

It is recommended that you restart your iPad in order to check that the Apple Pencil is connected correctly. By following these instructions, you will be able to restart your iPad.

If your iPad has a Home button:

  • Step 1. Press and hold the Top (Power) button until the power slider appears.
  • Step 2. Drag the slider to turn off the iPad. Wait about 30 seconds. Press and hold the Top button again until the Apple logo appears.

restart ipad with home button

If your iPad does NOT have a Home button:

  • Step 1. To get access to the power slider, simultaneously press and hold either Volume button as well as the Top button.
  • Step 2. When the power slider appears, drag it to turn off. Wait about 30 seconds. Press and hold the Top button until the Apple logo appears.

restart ipad without home button

If the power slider does not show on your iPad or if it cannot be moved into the off position, you will need to do a hard reset on your device. This problem could appear on an iPad that has been frozen.

To do this, you must first press and hold the button for the Volume Up, then press and hold the button for the Volume Down, and last push the button for the Top. Try to reconnect the Apple pencil once you've given your iPad a fresh start.

force restart ipad without home button

Method 6. Un-pair and Re-pair

If your Apple Pencil is not working correctly, the issue may be related to its Bluetooth connection. Sometimes the connection becomes unstable or glitches, causing performance problems. In this case, you can fix the issue by un-pairing the Apple Pencil from your iPad and then pairing it again. This process refreshes the connection and often resolves unusual behavior.

  • Step 1. Open Settings on your iPad and tap Bluetooth.
  • Step 2. Find your Apple Pencil in the list of connected devices.
  • Step 3. Tap the (i) icon next to it, then select Forget This Device to un-pair it. And restart your iPad.
  • forget apple pencil
  • Step 4. Then re-pair your Apple Pencil. For Apple Pencil (1st generation): Plug it into the iPad's charging port; for Apple Pencil (2nd generation): Attach it magnetically to the side of the iPad.
  • Step 5. Tap Pair when the prompt appears.

If you've tried to re-pair your pencil, but it's still not functioning properly, it's probably time to call in the experts.

Method 7. Reset Network Settings

Another reasonable solution for fixing the Apple pencil that won't stay connected is to reset the Network settings. This might solve the problem regardless of what's causing it. Unless you choose to delete all content and reset settings, which we are not doing here, no data will be lost. Here's how to reset your iPad's network settings.

  • Step 1. To do a transfer or reset, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad.
  • Step 2. Select "Reset" to continue.
  • Step 3. Select the Reset Network Settings from the list, and confirm your choice from the pop-up prompt.

reset ipad network settings

Method 8. Fix Apple Pencil Keeps Disconnecting from iPad with TunesKit iOS System Recovery

TunesKit iOS System Recovery is an amazing program that provides answers to virtually all of the problems that might arise on iOS devices. It is an app that can be used if your Apple pencil keeps disconnecting. Not just that, this powerful tool can repair 150+ ios problems including the iPad getting stuck on the Activation Lock Screen, iOS update not showing up, and much more.

For the best part, TunesKit iOS System Recovery offers two distinct modes, The Standard Mode and the Advanced Mode. While the former fixes the most common ios problems without any data loss, the latter mode offers solutions for the more complicated issues by erasing data. Additionally, the tool allows you to enter and exit the DFU mode with a few clicks only.

Repair iPad System Issues in 1-Click

Use TunesKit iOS System Recovery to fix system glitches that cause Apple Pencil keeps disconnecting from iPad without losing your data.

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Make use of this quick tutorial on how to fix iPad pencil keeps disconnecting issue.

Step 1Connect iPad to Computer

To begin, download and install to open TunesKit iOS System Recovery on your PC. Then, use a USB cord to link the iPad to the computer. Select the iOS System Repair on the main screen.

connect iphone to pc

Step 2Select Repair Mode

Hold off till TunesKit automatically recognizes your device. When you're ready to go, hit the "Start" button. To proceed, choose either "Standard Repair," this mode can fix your iPadOS without data loss.

select a repair mode

Step 3Download Firmware Package

On the next window, confirm the model and version of the connected device. Then, put your device into DFU mode by following the on-screen instruction. Now choose an appropriate firmware package for your device and download it.

download iphone firmware package

Step 4Fix Apple Pencil Keeps Disconnecting from iPad

Following a successful firmware download, click on the "Repair" button to initiate the device repair process. While we work to resolve the issue, leave your device plugged in.

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Part 3. FAQs About Apple Pencil Keeps Disconnecting from iPad

  • 1. Does a low battery cause the Pencil to drop its connection?

    Yes, once the Apple Pencil battery drops below a certain threshold (usually 5% to 10%), the Bluetooth connection becomes unstable. The device may frequently disconnect to conserve the remaining power. To prevent this, try to keep your Pencil charged above 20% during long drawing or note-taking sessions.

  • 2. Can my iPad case interfere with the Apple Pencil connection?

    Thick or rugged third-party cases can sometimes prevent the Apple Pencil 2nd Generation from making full magnetic contact with the charging strip. If the magnetic bond isn't perfect, the iPad may struggle to maintain the pairing or fail to charge the device entirely. Try removing the case to see if the connection stabilizes.

  • 3. Why does my Apple Pencil disconnect while I am using it?

    The most frequent cause for mid-use disconnection is a loose nib. If the plastic tip of the Apple Pencil is even slightly unscrewed, the internal sensors cannot properly communicate with the iPad screen. Simply twist the tip clockwise to ensure it is snug against the Pencil body.

Part 4. Conclusion

In spite of your reliance on the Apple pencil, there have been instances when it has failed to stay connected to your iPad. It can be quite annoying if your Apple pencil refuses to stay connected while charging, especially if this happens often or just happens in one app. Fortunately, this article offers a variety of solutions you can attempt. We recommend using TunesKit iOS System Recovery to recover your pencil.

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