The Apple Pencil is an essential accessory for iPad users, significantly boosting productivity. It supports a wide range of uses, from note-taking and document annotation to illustration and photo editing, boasting the comfortable operation unique to genuine Apple products.

However, a new Apple Pencil can cost anywhere from the upper 10,000 yen range to over 20,000 yen, making it an inaccessible purchase for many. This is where "buying a used item" comes into consideration.

While used Apple Pencils offer the appeal of being affordable, there are risks such as degradation and counterfeit products. This article systematically explains the key points to consider when purchasing a used Apple Pencil and introduces methods to make a safe choice.

Benefits and Risks of Buying a Used Apple Pencil

Price Advantage / Cost Reduction

It's sometimes possible to purchase an Apple Pencil, which has a high new price, for nearly half its original price on the used market. Especially for first-generation models, it's not uncommon to find them for around 3,000 to 6,000 yen. Even second-generation models can drop to around 10,000 yen, making them very attractive for those who want to try them for illustrations or notes.

Furthermore, since Apple Pencil compatibility is limited to specific iPads, for needs like "I want one as a sub for my current iPad" or "I want to try it out," buying used offers better cost-performance.

In other words, pre-purchase checks are essential to avoid situations where you "bought it cheaply but couldn't use it."

Battery Degradation

The biggest weakness of the Apple Pencil is that its "battery is built-in and cannot be replaced." Unlike smartphones or laptops where the battery can be swapped, if the battery degrades, the only option is to replace the entire unit.

Especially with used items, "over-discharge" poses a significant risk. Over-discharge is a phenomenon where the battery completely loses functionality after being left unused for an extended period with zero charge. In this state, even when connected to a charging cable, no current flows, and it won't power on no matter how long it's charged.

Many listings on the used market state "operation unconfirmed" or "power-on unconfirmed," and it's not uncommon for buyers to find they can't charge or use it after purchase. Since battery health cannot be determined visually, it's crucial to confirm whether charging and pairing have actually been checked and if there's a warranty when purchasing.

Counterfeits / Imitations

Due to the Apple Pencil's popularity, many counterfeits and imitation products are circulating. Their appearance is so similar to the genuine article that it can be difficult to tell them apart at a glance. However, there are crucial differences in internal performance.

For example, while genuine products allow for advanced features like pressure sensitivity, tilt detection, and double-tap tool switching on compatible iPads, these features do not function correctly on imitations. There are also differences such as the absence of a serial number engraving, inability to check warranty status on the official Apple website, and poor print quality on the packaging.

Cases have been reported, especially on flea market apps and in person-to-person transactions, where inexpensive imitations are sold as "brand new and unused." To avoid falling victim to such products, it is essential to purchase from a trustworthy retailer and perform authenticity checks, such as serial number verification.

Physical Wear and Tear

The Apple Pencil is used in direct contact with the iPad screen daily, leading to wear and degradation depending on usage. The most significant wear occurs on the tip.

Over extended use, the tip can wear down flat or the plastic part can abrade and become sharp, not only degrading the writing experience but also risking minor scratches on the iPad screen.

Furthermore, if the body has scuffs or dirt, it's possible that internal components are under more stress than visible. Internal damage to the circuit board or sensor malfunctions due to drops cannot be judged from the exterior, making used purchases without operational checks risky.

While the tip can be easily replaced with a genuine replacement, internal malfunctions are difficult to repair. Therefore, it is very important to thoroughly check the condition before purchase.

Activation Issue

Newer models like the Apple Pencil Pro support the "Find My" feature. This allows its location to be tracked when linked to an Apple ID, similar to an iPad or iPhone. While a convenient feature, it can be a major pitfall when buying used.

If the previous owner has not removed the Apple Pencil from their "Find My" feature, it will remain registered to their account.

As a result, it may not be recognized when trying to connect to your iPad, or in the worst case, it may be unusable. This is similar to the "Activation Lock" on iPhones, a mechanism to prevent the use of stolen or unauthorized products, but it can occur even with legitimate used purchases if the previous owner forgets to deactivate it.

To mitigate this, it's important to confirm that the seller explicitly states "Find My deactivated" and to check if it can pair immediately after purchase.

Key Points to Absolutely Check When Buying a Used Apple Pencil

Checking Battery Charge / Over-Discharge

An Apple Pencil can become unrecoverable due to "over-discharge" if left unused for a long time. Before purchasing, always check:

• If it can charge
  
  

• If it's recognized by an iPad
  Beware of phrases like "unconfirmed" or "power-on confirmed only" on flea markets and auctions. If buying from a physical store, ideally try charging and pairing it yourself.
  
  

Checking for Tip Wear and Replaceability

The Apple Pencil tip is a consumable item. Excessive wear not only degrades the writing experience but also risks scratching the iPad screen.

• Check if the tip is flattened
  
  

• Check if the resin part is chipped
  The tip is replaceable, but genuine replacement tips cost around 2,000 yen, so if replacement is necessary, it's important to consider price negotiation or the total cost.
  
  

How to Test Pairing and Connection on the Actual Device

When buying used, always confirm pairing with an iPad.

• 1st generation: Does it recognize when plugged into the Lightning port?
  
  

• 2nd generation: Does it recognize when magnetically attached to the side of the iPad?
  
  

If pairing fails, it could indicate an internal malfunction or a counterfeit.

"Find My" Feature and Activation Lock Status

The Apple Pencil Pro supports the "Find My" feature. If the previous owner hasn't deactivated it, you may not be able to use it with your Apple ID. Always confirm that it has been "removed from the previous owner's account."

Exterior, Scratches, and Dirt Checkpoints

Regardless of the used item's condition rank, check the actual photos for the following:

• Scratches and cracks
  
  

• Deformation or yellowing
  
  

• Abnormalities around buttons or pen tip
  
  

Even if it looks clean, it might be hiding internal faults, so checking for a warranty is also reassuring.

6. How to Identify Counterfeits and Imitations

Checking Serial Numbers, Logos, and Engravings

A genuine Apple Pencil has a serial number printed on it, which can be used to check its warranty status on the official Apple website. If the font is unnatural or there is no imprint, it's likely a counterfeit.

Functional Differences (Pressure Sensitivity, Double-Tap, etc.) for Identification

While imitations may look similar externally, they differ in function:

• Pressure sensitivity may not work.
  
  

• The second-generation double-tap feature may not work.
  The most reliable way is to test the actual device before purchasing.
  
  

Red Flags from Price and Listing Type

Be wary of items priced significantly below market value, or listings like "unopened but half the price of a new one." It's generally best to avoid anonymous sellers or transactions without guarantees.

7. Places to Buy Used Items Safely and Warranty Systems

Differences Between Major Used Shops vs. Flea Markets/Individual Transactions

• Major Used Shops: Often clearly state condition ranks and operational checks, and typically offer a warranty period. Prices are slightly higher.
  
  

• Flea Markets/Auctions: Online flea markets like Mercari, Rakuma, and Yahoo! Auctions offer lower prices but carry higher risks of insufficient operational checks or counterfeit products. Warranties are typically not provided.
  
  

How to Check Warranty Period and Return Policy

The presence of a warranty significantly increases peace of mind. Since battery and pairing issues often become apparent soon after purchase, a warranty of at least one week to one month is reassuring.

Introduction to PRODIG's Purchase, Rental, and Buyback Services

PRODIG, with a physical store in Akihabara, handles used Apple products, including the Apple Pencil. Its main feature is high reliability compared to flea markets, as products are operationally checked and come with warranties and after-sales support. Furthermore, with rental and buyback services, it caters to needs such as "I want to try it before buying" or "I want to sell it when I no longer need it."

5. Post-Purchase Operation and Maintenance Tips

Timing and Method for Regular Tip Replacement

The Apple Pencil tip wears out in a few months to a year, depending on usage frequency. If the writing feel is no longer smooth, it's a sign to replace it. Replacement is easy with genuine replacement tips, simply by twisting.

Solutions for Battery Depletion (e.g., Low Current Charging)

To prevent over-discharge, it's important to charge it regularly. Make it a habit to charge it every 2-3 weeks, without letting it completely discharge.

How to Identify When to Consider Repair or Replacement

• Frequent disconnection of pairing
  
  

• Pressure sensitivity not working
  
  

• Rapid battery drain
  If these symptoms persist, it's a sign to consider replacement or repair.
  
  

6. Used vs. New/Refurbished: Cost and Peace of Mind Comparison

Advantages and Price Difference of New/Refurbished Products

• New: Expensive but comes with a long warranty, ensuring safe long-term use.
  
  

• Refurbished: Near-new quality with a warranty, more reassuring than used.
  
  

• Used: Cheaper, but carries significant warranty and degradation risks.
  
  

Conditions under which a Used Item is Sufficiently Practical

• Purchased from a trustworthy seller
  
  

• Choose a product with confirmed operation and a warranty
  
  

• Choose a unit with a relatively clean tip and exterior
  
  

If these conditions are met, it's possible to acquire a used Apple Pencil that is perfectly practical.

Summary: Checklist for Safe Purchasing with Reduced Risk

Finally, here's a checklist for buying a used Apple Pencil:

• □ Confirmed that charging and pairing work normally
  
  

• □ "Find My" feature and activation lock are deactivated
  
  

• □ No significant wear on the tip or exterior scratches
  
  

• □ Authenticity checked via serial number
  
  

• □ Selected a seller with warranty and return policies
  
  

A used Apple Pencil, if chosen correctly, can significantly cut costs compared to a new one while providing a comfortable iPad experience. To purchase with peace of mind, it's most important to heed these precautions and choose a trustworthy seller.

PRODIG, which operates a physical store in Akihabara and an online shop, allows you to confidently choose an operation-checked Apple Pencil. Utilize their rental and buyback services to smartly integrate an Apple Pencil into your life in a way that suits you.

Also, note that Apple Pencil compatibility varies by model.

▶Is the 1st Generation Apple Pencil Still Viable? A Thorough Guide to Compatible Models, Usage, and How to Buy Used Affordably

▶What's the Difference Between the 2nd and 1st Generation Apple Pencil? Also Explaining Why Buying Used Is Sufficient!