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I got the first-generation Apple Pencil several years ago to use with my then 10.5-inch iPad Pro, but consistently neglected to use it. When I brought it out of my drawer earlier this year, I found it dead in the water after several attempts to recharge it.
Nothing I tried worked, so I eventually explored and discovered other options. That’s when I came upon an awesome deal on an alternative to the Apple Pencil that I just couldn’t pass up. I am using Jamjake Stylus Pen since last four months. Continue on for my full JamJack Stylus Pen review,
Courtesy of Amazon
Specifications
- Dimensions: 8.4 x 2.4 x 0.6 inch
- weight: 2.08 oz
- Compatibility: iPad 9th/8th/7th/6th Generation, iPad Air 3rd/4th/5th Generation, iPad Pro 11-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd/4th/5th Generation, iPad Mini 5th/6th Generation
- battery life: 20 hours continuous working, 90 minutes charging, 365 days standby time
included in the box
- JamJack Stylus Pen
- replacement tips
- pencil tip cover
- USB-C Charging Cable
- user manual
Setup: Works immediately
With a little charge out of the box, I was able to quickly set up the JamJack Stylus Pen in under a minute with my iPad Air (3rd generation). I was actually surprised that I didn’t have to do anything other than just tap the end of the pen to turn it on – indicated by the blue LED light. Once I did that, it was ready to go. It actually installs quicker than the Apple Pencil.
Design: Your standard look
Nothing fancy with the matte plastic construction of the Jamjake Stylus Pen. It’s lightweight, but it could benefit from being a bit more top-heavy, like the Apple Pencil. That’s because the top-heavy feel of the Apple Pencil is made for a smoother writing experience. I guess it’s not a deal-breaker as it still feels comfortable to use. There’s even a magnetic connection that allows it to rest on the side of my iPad Air.
John Velasco | Detective
Accuracy: Great, but no pressure sensitivity
I’ll be honest, I bought the Jamjake Stylus Pen primarily for the mobile games I play. I found that it provided better accuracy and precision when choosing a target, rather than having to use my fingers to do all the work. I really enjoyed that it has palm-rejection technology, so there’s no interference whenever I hold the iPad with one hand and place my palm on the display while using the JamJack Stylus Pen.
John Velasco | Detective
The stylus was great for scrolling through websites and using all the Scribble features you’re used to with the Apple Pencil. However, you should know that does not offers the same pressure sensitivity as the Apple Pencil. No matter how much or even a little pressure you apply, the result will not change.
This is an issue that will affect doodlers or artists who require precise sensitivity to produce strong or soft strokes. If you intend to use it for art, the JamJack Stylus Pen is not for you.
Battery Life: Convenience with USB-C
I’ve never liked the Lightning cable charging process with the original Apple Pen. I often thought sticking it in my iPad Air’s Lightning port was a recipe for disaster, which is why I prefer the integrated USB-C charging port with the Jamjake Stylus Pen.
John Velasco | Detective
I’ve only had to recharge it once since receiving it, but it’s rated for 20 hours of battery life with continuous useor 365 days of standby time. So far, I am satisfied with what I have been able to achieve. At least it’s not something that needs to be charged at night. Plus, I appreciate that it automatically shuts off after five minutes of inactivity when I forget to do it manually.
our decision
After working through my JamJack stylus pen reviewI am quite satisfied with the writing. If you don’t need pressure sensitivity and need a simple writing tool for your iPad, the Jamjake Stylus Pen is a good alternative to the pricier Apple Pencil.
So should you buy it?
Absolutely. Its ultra-affordable cost and ease of use make it an impulsive buy, especially when it costs about 80% less than the Apple Pencil.
professionals
- ultra economical cost
- Easiest setup ever
- Auto-off feature saves battery
Shortcoming
- Does not provide pressure sensitivity
Courtesy of Amazon
how long will it last?
Surprisingly, it feels well built despite its lightweight feel, so it gives me confidence that it will last for a long time. However, Jamjake does offer an 18-month warranty with the purchase.
What are some options?
Given that it’s incredibly affordable to start with, it’s really hard to find alternatives that can match the value of the JamJack. Here are two that we think closely match the JamJack Stylus Pen.
mkq active pencil
Depending on how inclined it is for drawing or writing, the MKQ Active Pencil can actually produce three different thickness levels.
Courtesy of Amazon
pony stylus pen
With a very low price tag, the Pony Stylus Pen is a passive stylus that works on any capacitive screen. In other words, this stylus doesn’t require a battery to work.
Courtesy of Amazon.
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