The iPad Pro ecosystem can be expensive, especially when searching for budget-friendly accessories. Finding a competitive stylus often involves a leap of faith, with caveats lurking around every corner. ESR’s Geo Digital Pencil, showcased at CES 2025, challenges this notion. This stylus, priced under $30, boasts features like Find My support, magnetic attachment, and tilt recognition, mimicking Apple Pencil functionality at a fraction of the cost.
Location Tracking: A Game Changer
Losing a pricey Apple Pencil Pro, especially without readily available Find My support on the base model, can be frustrating. The ESR Geo Digital Pencil addresses this pain point by integrating with Apple’s Find My network. This feature, previously exclusive to the Apple Pencil Pro, offers peace of mind and convenient retrieval should your stylus go missing. The setup is seamless, requiring only Bluetooth pairing and a quick configuration within the Find My app.
Adding a name and emoji personalizes the stylus within the app. Furthermore, the built-in speaker allows you to trigger an audible alert, simplifying the search process. The full Find My functionality performs admirably, offering a level of security usually reserved for more expensive accessories.
Performance and Features: Beyond Expectations
While the ESR Geo Digital Pencil lacks pressure sensitivity, magnetic charging, and the double-tap functionality of the Apple Pencil 2, it delivers exceptional performance for its price. Basic note-taking and sketching feel fluid and responsive.
Tilt recognition is accurate, and the lack of discernible lag enhances the writing experience. The stylus is comfortable to hold, with a balanced weight distribution, and the magnetic attachment feels secure. Pairing the ESR stylus with a matte screen protector further improves the sketching experience by adding a paper-like feel.
Design and Usability: Thoughtful Touches
Available in white, pink, and black, the ESR Geo Digital Pencil offers style choices beyond Apple’s standard white. Charging is handled via USB-C, reaching full capacity in about 30 minutes. A halo ring at the top provides clear visual cues for power and connection status. A multi-function button offers quick access to the Home Screen and app multitasking view, though customizable shortcuts would be a welcome addition.
Conclusion: An Exceptional Value
The ESR Geo Digital Pencil is a compelling alternative to the Apple Pencil, offering impressive features and performance at an affordable price. The inclusion of Find My support alone makes it a standout choice. Combined with its responsive performance, thoughtful design, and magnetic attachment, the ESR Geo Digital Pencil is an excellent value for iPad users seeking a budget-friendly stylus.
The ESR Geo Digital Pencil is available for purchase on Amazon.
