Does the new Surface Slim Pen work with all touch-screen PCs?

How-to
By Rich Edmonds
published

Surface Slim Pen
Surface Slim Pen (Image credit: Windows Central)

Does the new Surface Slim Pen work with all touch-screen PCs?

Best answer: No, Microsoft's Surface Slim Pen will not work with all touch-screen PCs. You'll only be able to use the Surface Slim Pen if your device supports N-trig.Latest Microsoft stylus: Surface Slim Pen ($145 at Amazon)

Support for N-trig

Microsoft's styli are mostly powered by N-trig technology, including the latest Surface Slim Pen. This means the stylus will only work with hardware that supports the same technology. If your device does not support N-trig, the touch-screen will not play ball. Luckily, numerous products support N-trig, so be sure to check your device specifications before making the purchase.

For Surface hardware, the new Slim Pen supports:

  • Surface Book
  • Surface Book 2
  • Surface Studio
  • Surface Studio 2
  • Surface Laptop
  • Surface Laptop 2
  • Surface Laptop 3
  • Surface Go
  • Surface Pro 3
  • Surface Pro 4
  • Surface Pro 5th Gen
  • Surface Pro 6
  • Surface Pro 7
  • Surface 3

The new Slim Pen is a redesign of the classic Surface stylus, featuring a flat side to help it fit into a cradle, and even includes wireless charging. If you own the new Surface Pro X, you can also place it in the cradle above the keyboard to keep it topped up on the go. It's a great companion accessory for any Surface owner who enjoys doing a little doodling or serious creative work.

Draw Away
Microsoft Surface Slim Pen

Microsoft's latest Surface stylus

With the launch of the Surface Pro X, Surface Pro 7, and Surface Laptop 3, Microsoft redesigned the Surface Pen and threw in some wireless charging for good measure.

Rich Edmonds
Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.