SonarPen 2: A Cheaper Apple Pencil Alternative with Tilt Detection and Improved Tip

Riley King

Riley King

November 26, 2024 · 5 min read
SonarPen 2: A Cheaper Apple Pencil Alternative with Tilt Detection and Improved Tip

The SonarPen 2, a successor to the original SonarPen, has launched on Kickstarter, offering a more affordable alternative to the Apple Pencil with advanced features like tilt detection and an improved tip. This innovative stylus relies on sound waves instead of Bluetooth, eliminating the need for battery charging.The SonarPen 2 builds upon the success of its predecessor, which debuted in 2018 as a cheaper alternative to the Apple Pencil. The original SonarPen used audio signals transmitted to the iPad over a cable instead of Bluetooth, making it a more affordable option for those seeking a stylus experience. The new version takes it a step further with the addition of tilt detection and a finer pen tip, closely resembling the Apple Pencil's.Currently available for preorder on Kickstarter, the SonarPen 2 is priced at around $32 for early backers, with full retail pricing expected to be around $45. Shipping is estimated to start as early as April 2025. The upgraded stylus includes integrated cable management and supports features like palm rejection, pressure sensitivity, and a customizable shortcut button.In comparison to other third-party iPad styluses, the SonarPen 2 offers a more affordable option with advanced features like tilt detection and pressure sensitivity. For example, the Adonit Note Plus, which also supports tilt detection and pressure sensitivity, is priced at $70. The SonarPen 2's competitive pricing and feature set make it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable Apple Pencil alternative.However, there are some limitations to the SonarPen 2. It only works when connected to a USB-C or Lightning port, and apps need to specifically support its features like tilt detection and shortcut buttons. Currently, the list of fully supported apps is limited, including ibis Paint X and Zen Brush 3. For apps that haven't explicitly added SonarPen 2 support, the stylus will function like the original Apple Pencil but without pressure sensitivity.The SonarPen 2's reliance on sound waves instead of Bluetooth is an innovative approach that eliminates the need for battery charging. This design choice also allows for a more affordable price point, making the stylus more accessible to a wider range of users. As the Kickstarter campaign progresses, it will be interesting to see how the SonarPen 2 is received by the market and whether it can gain significant traction as a viable Apple Pencil alternative.In the broader context, the SonarPen 2 represents a growing trend of innovative startups creating more affordable and feature-rich alternatives to premium products. This shift has the potential to disrupt traditional markets and create new opportunities for consumers and businesses alike. As the technology landscape continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how products like the SonarPen 2 shape the future of innovation and accessibility.

The SonarPen 2 builds upon the success of its predecessor, which debuted in 2018 as a cheaper alternative to the Apple Pencil. The original SonarPen used audio signals transmitted to the iPad over a cable instead of Bluetooth, making it a more affordable option for those seeking a stylus experience. The new version takes it a step further with the addition of tilt detection and a finer pen tip, closely resembling the Apple Pencil's.

Currently available for preorder on Kickstarter, the SonarPen 2 is priced at around $32 for early backers, with full retail pricing expected to be around $45. Shipping is estimated to start as early as April 2025. The upgraded stylus includes integrated cable management and supports features like palm rejection, pressure sensitivity, and a customizable shortcut button.

In comparison to other third-party iPad styluses, the SonarPen 2 offers a more affordable option with advanced features like tilt detection and pressure sensitivity. For example, the Adonit Note Plus, which also supports tilt detection and pressure sensitivity, is priced at $70. The SonarPen 2's competitive pricing and feature set make it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable Apple Pencil alternative.

However, there are some limitations to the SonarPen 2. It only works when connected to a USB-C or Lightning port, and apps need to specifically support its features like tilt detection and shortcut buttons. Currently, the list of fully supported apps is limited, including ibis Paint X and Zen Brush 3. For apps that haven't explicitly added SonarPen 2 support, the stylus will function like the original Apple Pencil but without pressure sensitivity.

The SonarPen 2's reliance on sound waves instead of Bluetooth is an innovative approach that eliminates the need for battery charging. This design choice also allows for a more affordable price point, making the stylus more accessible to a wider range of users. As the Kickstarter campaign progresses, it will be interesting to see how the SonarPen 2 is received by the market and whether it can gain significant traction as a viable Apple Pencil alternative.

In the broader context, the SonarPen 2 represents a growing trend of innovative startups creating more affordable and feature-rich alternatives to premium products. This shift has the potential to disrupt traditional markets and create new opportunities for consumers and businesses alike. As the technology landscape continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how products like the SonarPen 2 shape the future of innovation and accessibility.

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