As someone who has been using the iPad Pro ecosystem for a while, mainly for professional reasons, finding a budget-friendly stylus alternative has always been a challenge. Most non-Apple styluses come with compromises, making it a gamble to try something new. But at CES 2025, ESR introduced a game-changer: a stylus with Find My support, priced under $30. This was an intriguing alternative to Apple’s expensive options.
Find My Support That Actually Works
I previously lost my Apple Pencil Pro, which costs $129 in the US. Despite its Find My support, I couldn’t track it once the battery died. Frustrated, I never replaced it. Enter the ESR Geo Digital Pencil, the first non-Apple stylus with Find My integration. Given that even the second-gen Apple Pencil lacks this feature, I was eager to test it.
The pairing process was effortless. After connecting via Bluetooth and setting it up in the Find My app, I could name the stylus and even assign an emoji. A standout feature? The built-in speaker, which emits a beep to help locate the stylus. I was initially skeptical about how well Find My would function at this price, but it worked flawlessly in my tests.
How It Compares to Apple’s Styluses
Of course, the ESR stylus lacks some high-end features of Apple’s more expensive models:
- No Pressure Sensitivity – a feature mostly useful for digital artists.
- No Magnetic Charging – it attaches magnetically but charges via USB-C.
- No Double Tap for Tool Switching – a minor convenience feature.
However, for basic tasks like note-taking and casual sketching, it covers all essentials. Plus, it comes in multiple colors, unlike Apple’s all-white approach.
Performance and Usability
The ESR stylus feels well-balanced, attaches securely to the iPad, and has no noticeable lag. Tilt recognition is smooth, making it a solid choice for everyday use. A friend who specializes in Arabic and Persian calligraphy tested it on a 13-inch M4 iPad Pro and praised its near-zero latency. I personally enjoyed using it on a paper-textured screen protector, which enhanced the writing experience significantly.
Extra Features That Make a Difference
- Fast USB-C Charging – Fully charges in about 30 minutes.
- Long Battery Life – Lasts around 12 hours per charge.
- Halo Ring Indicator – A useful LED indicator for power and battery status.
- Multi-Function Button – A tap takes you to the Home Screen, while a double tap opens the multitasking view—features even Apple’s own stylus lacks.
The Verdict: A No-Brainer for $30
For just $30, the ESR Geo Digital Pencil delivers an exceptional experience. Find My support alone makes it worth buying, but its solid performance, useful extras, and reliable tracking make it an easy recommendation. If you’re looking for an affordable iPad stylus that won’t break the bank, this is the one to get.