The new $20 Microsoft Classroom Pen 2 is the right price for educational institutions

Surface And Classroom Pen
Surface And Classroom Pen (Image credit: Microsoft)

What you need to know

  • Microsoft announced the Microsoft Classroom Pen 2 today.
  • The pen is optimized to work with Surface Go and Surface Pro devices.
  • The Microsoft Classroom Pen 2 will be available starting on April 27 for $20.

Microsoft announced a new digital pen today that's significantly cheaper than the competition. The new Microsoft Classroom Pen 2 only costs $20, which is less than all of best Surface Pen and Surface Slim Pen alternatives currently on the market. It's also cheaper than the best Apple Pencil alternatives. Microsoft announced the new digital pen in a recent blog post.

You can use the Microsoft Classroom Pen 2 with Surface Go or Surface Pro devices. Microsoft's blog post highlights that using digital ink within a classroom setting can help save paper, trees, ink, and money. Wellington College switched to Surface devices and saved 3.8 million sheets of paper, according to Microsoft.

The Microsoft Classroom Pen 2 has a longer enclosure and improved design compared to its predecessor. You can also replace the tip of the Microsoft Classroom Pen 2. It has a slot for tethering and a clip, both of which help people keep track of the pen. A video from Microsoft showcasing the pen discusses how a physical clip is more secure than attaching magnetically.

Microsoft Classroom Pen 2 will be available starting on April 27, 2021 for only $20 per pen. Microsoft says the Microsoft Classroom Pen 2 will be sold in packs of 20 for $399.80. The company does not state if the pen will be sold individually. The Microsoft Classroom Pen 2 will be sold exclusively to educational institutions.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.