Using an Apple Pencil can make drawing, note-taking, and editing on an iPad easier and more fun. But holding one for a long time can feel uncomfortable or even cause hand cramps. This is where Apple Pencil grips come in. The best Apple Pencil grips slide over the pencil and makes it softer to hold, giving my fingers better control and comfort during longer sessions.
There are a lot of grips to choose from, and not all of them work the same way. Some are made from soft silicone and others are firmer. Some grips are skinny, and others are chunkier for people who like bigger pens or have larger hands. The shape, size, and texture of the grip can change how the pencil feels to use. It’s also important to check if a grip covers features like the double-tap sensor or wireless charging area, since some designs can block these functions.
For picking the best Apple Pencil grip, I looked at comfort, how easy it is to put on and remove, whether it fits both generations of the Apple Pencil, and if it allows for charging without taking the grip off. I tried several popular options to find out which ones actually make drawing and writing smoother and more comfortable.
Best Apple Pencil Grips
I’ve tried out a bunch of Apple Pencil grips and picked my top favorites. Here are the ones I think make drawing and writing more comfortable and fun.
ProElife Silicone Apple Pencil Grip (2-Pack)
If you want something comfortable that also adds a splash of color to your Apple Pencil, this grip is a useful buy.
Pros
- Makes holding the pencil much more comfortable for long writing or drawing
- Stays firmly in place with a soft, grippy texture
- Bright colors help my pencil stand out and are easy to spot
Cons
- The grip is too bulky to fit my Apple Pencil into most iPad cases
- Takes a bit of force to put on the first time
- Adds a little thickness, which might be odd if you like a slim feel
Slipping this ProElife grip onto my Apple Pencil was a noticeable upgrade. My hand felt less tired and didn’t get as sweaty, even after a long note-taking session. The silicone has just the right amount of squish without being too soft, and I liked how the grip’s shape matched the way my hand wrapped around the pencil.
One thing that bugged me is the extra thickness. While it makes the pencil more comfortable, it also means my stylus no longer fits snugly in my iPad case. I ended up carrying the pencil separately, which was a little inconvenient. The installation wasn’t super smooth at first, either—getting the grip on took a bit of work, but once in place, it didn’t budge at all.
On the plus side, the bright pink and purple colors look fun and make my Apple Pencil way easier to find at the bottom of my bag. If you’re after an easy way to get more comfort while writing or drawing, and don’t mind storing your pencil outside of its case, this ProElife Silicone Grip is a solid pick for everyday use.
UPPERCASE NimbleGrip Grip
If you want a soft, comfortable grip for your Apple Pencil that doesn’t slip around, this is a great pick.
Pros
- Feels comfortable and soft during long writing or drawing sessions
- I like that it stays put and doesn’t twist around on the Pencil
- Two different grip shapes on each side give some choice in feel
Cons
- I have to take it off for wireless charging
- Adds a bit of bulk, which might not suit everyone
- Dust can stick to the surface after a while
I used the UPPERCASE NimbleGrip for a week and instantly noticed my hand didn’t cramp up like it used to. The silicone is soft and squishy, but it still gives me enough support to keep control. Swapping between the rounded and hexagonal sides was pretty easy, so I could decide what felt best that day.
During longer drawing or note-taking sessions, the grip made holding the Apple Pencil way less tiring. I liked how it stayed in place—no more spinning or sliding like some cheap grips do. It also looks cute in pink, which made my Apple Pencil stand out a bit.
While it works with every Apple Pencil model, I did have to remove it to charge my 2nd gen Pencil wirelessly. That can get annoying if you charge a lot, but I got used to it. Overall, if you don’t mind a little extra step for charging, I’d say this grip makes a nice upgrade for comfort and style.
Paperlike Pencil Grips
If you want a comfortable and reliable Apple Pencil grip that works with most cases, this set is a solid pick.
Pros
- Feels natural in my hand and lessens strain after awhile
- Snaps on and off the pencil fast, which makes switching cases easy
- Stays put and doesn’t slip around while I’m writing or drawing
Cons
- Tough to line up when first sliding it on
- Costs a bit more than most other grips
- Can make the pencil’s magnet weaker for charging
I threw the Paperlike Pencil Grip on my Apple Pencil, and right away, I noticed how much better it felt to hold. My hand cramped less, even after an hour of sketching. The grip has a soft, sturdy feel and doesn’t get sticky or slippery, even if my hands are sweaty.
It’s easy to pop on and off, which is handy when I switch between my iPad cases. I like that it comes in two colors so I can match my gear or just swap for a different look. The shape hits the sweet spot for me—bigger than a bare Apple Pencil, but not bulky.
Here’s one thing that bugged me: installing it the first time took some wiggling, and it’s definitely a snug fit. I also noticed my Apple Pencil doesn’t stick quite as strongly to the iPad when using the grip, though it still charges fine. All things considered, Paperlike Pencil Grips make long writing or drawing sessions way easier on my fingers, even if I wish they were a bit less pricey.
Buying Guide
When I pick out an Apple Pencil grip, I look for a few things. Comfort is the most important because I use my pencil for long periods.
Here are some features I consider:
- Material: Some grips feel soft and squishy, while others are firm. I like to try different ones to see what feels best in my hand.
- Shape: Some grips are round, while others have flat edges. Flat sides can help stop the pencil from rolling off the desk.
- Size and Fit: The grip should fit snugly on the Apple Pencil so it doesn’t slip. I also check if it’s easy to put on and take off.
- Weight: A heavy grip can make the pencil hard to hold. I stick with lightweight options.
Here’s a quick table I use to compare grips:
| Feature | Why I Care |
|---|---|
| Comfort | My hand doesn’t get tired |
| Grip Fit | Stays in place, doesn’t slide |
| Materials | Good for long use, doesn’t get sticky |
| Style | Looks good with my pencil |
| Easy Clean | Simple to wash after use |
I also think about how easy it is to clean the grip. Some grips can be washed, which helps if my hands get sweaty.
Finally, I remind myself to try different grips before picking a favorite. The right choice depends on what feels best to me.
Beginner’s Guide to iPad Accessories
Discover the essential accessories to make your iPad a more versatile and efficient tool. Our Beginner’s Guide to iPad Accessories covers everything from protective cases and reliable stands to advanced styluses and keyboards, ensuring you get the most out of your device. Learn how to identify your iPad model and select compatible accessories that suit your needs, whether for creativity, productivity, or everyday use. Explore our guide to find the perfect accessories that will enrich your iPad experience and extend its functionality.
