The battle between digital styluses has become increasingly relevant as more people use tablets for work and creative projects. While Apple’s Pencil has long been the go-to choice for iPad users, Logitech’s Crayon offers an intriguing alternative that deserves serious consideration.
The Price Factor
Let’s address the elephant in the room – cost. The Logitech Crayon typically runs about $70, while the Apple Pencil (2nd gen) will set you back $129. That’s a significant difference if you’re on a budget, especially for students or casual users who might not need all the premium features of the Apple Pencil.
Performance and Precision
Here’s where things get interesting. While both styluses offer impressive accuracy, the Apple Pencil edges ahead with pressure sensitivity – something the Crayon doesn’t have. As someone who’s used both, I can tell you that for basic note-taking and casual sketching, you probably won’t miss this feature. However, if you’re an artist or designer who needs those subtle pressure variations, the Apple Pencil might be worth the extra investment.
Practical Design Differences
The Crayon has some clever design features that I’ve grown to appreciate. Its flat shape prevents it from rolling off your desk (a common annoyance with the original Apple Pencil), and its aluminum build feels surprisingly premium. The Apple Pencil, however, offers that signature Apple polish and magnetic attachment to newer iPads, which doubles as a charging mechanism.
Battery Life and Charging
Both options offer solid battery life, but they handle charging differently. The Crayon uses a Lightning port (or USB-C, depending on the model), while the Apple Pencil 2 charges wirelessly when attached to your iPad. I’ve found the Crayon’s quick-charge feature particularly handy – just 2 minutes of charging gives you about 30 minutes of use.
Compatibility Considerations
Here’s something crucial to consider: the Logitech Crayon works with most modern iPads, but the Apple Pencil’s compatibility varies by generation. Make sure to check which Pencil version works with your specific iPad model before making a decision.
Making Your Choice
If you’re a casual user who needs a reliable stylus for note-taking, marking up documents, or basic sketching, the Logitech Crayon offers excellent value. You’re getting about 80% of the Apple Pencil’s functionality at roughly half the price. However, if you’re a professional artist or designer who needs pressure sensitivity and the most precise control possible, the Apple Pencil remains the gold standard.
Think about your primary use case – are you taking notes in class, creating digital art, or annotating documents? Your answer should guide your choice between these two capable tools.
