Microsoft Surface Pen Compatibility / Interoperability FAQ (2024)

Summary

[Updated 2024/05/22 with revised info for new devices] IntroductionPen comparison chartChart NotesHow to read the tableFAQWhich pens shipped with which device models? What colors are available?Replaceable pen tips?Batteries & ChargingButtons & ErasersClips & TethersSurface Laptop Go / Go2 support?MagnetsSwapping top and bottom half between pensOther pen/stylus brands that work with Surface Pro 3 or later devicesCommon issuesWhat is up with pen “jitter” and tip offset on Surface Pro 2017?Diagonal lines appear wavy?Pen tip vs “ink” offset improvements on models supporting “tilt”Pen stops inking after ~130 seconds of continuous writingReferences Introduction In the past, Microsoft did not made it easy to to understand the differences in pen/stylus support between Surface device generations. The table below summarizes compatibility between the different pens and Surface devices. Pressure sensitivity, latency, initial activation force, tilt, and haptic feedback functionality are detailed using best available information. Following the chart is a list of frequently asked questions. 3d-printed pen clip for Ver.4 pen Disclaimer: The following info is subject to change if/when Microsoft releases additional technical details Pen comparison chart Surface Pen compatibility chart Chart Notes Ver.1: 256 pressure levels on SP1 with launch firmware Ver.2 pen: not recommended on SP5 and later Studio 1: partial tilt support added in June 2018 via firmware update Classroom pens: Tilt not supported Hub,Duo, and all Surface Laptop models: Tilt not supported SLS, SP8, SP9, SLS, SLS2 and later: minimum latency reduced to ~13ms with 120Hz screen refresh mode Slim pen 2: supports “zero force inking” on SLS, SP8, SP9, SPX Slim pen 2: supports haptic feedback on SLS, SP8, SP9 Surface Laptop Go: no pen support How to read the table 256, 1024, or 4096 indicates the number of pressure sensitivity levels available when using the pen and device model together [256=8-bit, 1024=10-bit, 4096=12-bit]....