LAMY Safari Note+ vs Apple Pencil

February 06, 2025

LAMY Safari Note+ vs Apple Pencil

Two prominent contenders stand out for digital writing instruments for iPad users: the LAMY Safari Note+ and the Apple Pencil. 

Each pen offers a unique blend of design, functionality, and user experience.

This comparison delves into the advantages and disadvantages of the Apple Pencil and LAMY Safari Note+. 

Design and Ergonomics

LAMY SAFARI NOTE+ Design and Ergonomics

The LAMY Safari Note+ draws inspiration from LAMY's renowned fountain pens.

It features an ergonomic triangular grip that promotes a natural hand position. 

This design aims to reduce hand fatigue during extended writing sessions, a notable advantage for students, professionals, and artists alike.

Additionally, the Note+ includes a protective cap and an anti-roll bracket, ensuring both the nib's safety and the pen's stability when placed on a surface.

APPLE PENCIL Design and Ergonomics

In contrast, the Apple Pencil boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a uniform cylindrical body.

While its slim profile appeals to many users, some have reported discomfort during prolonged use due to its lack of ergonomic shaping.

The absence of a protective cap also leaves the nib exposed, potentially increasing the risk of damage.

DESIGN AND ERGONOMICS COMPARISON

LAMY SAFARI NOTE+

APPLE PENCIL 

  • Ergonomic triangular grip
  • Slim body is uncomfortable to some
  • Includes protective cap and anti-roll bracket
  • No protective cap leaves the nib exposed

 

Writing Experience

LAMY SAFARI NOTE+ Writing Experience 

The Safari Note+ is equipped with a replaceable, noise-reduced nib that offers a quieter and more tactile writing experience, closely mimicking the sensation of writing with a traditional pen on paper.

This feature particularly benefits users who prefer a more analog feel in their digital interactions.

However, it's worth noting that the softer nib may wear down more quickly, especially when used on matte screen protectors.

Fortunately, LAMY provides additional replacement nibs to address this concern.

APPLE PENCIL Writing Experience 

The Apple Pencil, renowned for its precision and responsiveness, offers high tilt sensitivity and pressure responsiveness, making it a preferred choice for digital artists requiring fine control.

However, some users have noted that writing on the iPad's glass surface can feel slippery, detracting from the overall writing experience.

Here's how to select the perfect pen based on writing style and grip preference. 

WRITING EXPERIENCE COMPARISON 

LAMY SAFARI NOTE+  APPLE PENCIL 
  • Replaceable, noise-reduced nib for a quiet and tactile writing experience 
  • High tilt sensitivity and pressure responsiveness 
  • Softer nib may wear down more quickly, but is replacable
  • Writing on the iPad's glass surface can feel slippery

 

Integration and Compatibility

APPLE PENCIL Integration and Compatibility 

One of the Apple Pencil's significant strengths lies in its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.

It pairs effortlessly with the iPad, providing features like palm rejection and double-tap functionality to switch between tools, enhancing productivity and ease of use.

This deep integration ensures compatibility with a wide range of applications, particularly those geared toward creative professionals.

LAMY SAFARI NOTE+ Integration and Compatibility 

 

The LAMY Safari Note+, while functional, has been reported to have limited software support.

Some users have experienced incomplete integration with certain apps, potentially hindering the full utilisation of its features.

This limitation may be a consideration for users heavily reliant on specific software for their workflows. 

The Safari Note+ is compatible with:

 iPad 6, 7, 8 ,9 ,10

iPad Pro 11" 1, 2, 3, 4

iPad Pro 12.9" 3, 4, 5

iPad Air 3, 4, 5

iPad Mini 5, 6

INTEGRATION AND COMPATIBILITY COMPARISON 

LAMY SAFARI NOTE+  APPLE PENCIL
  • Limited software support
  • Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem
  • Not all apps will work
  • Provides features such as palm rejection and double tap to switch between tools


Battery Life and Charging

LAMY SAFARI NOTE+ Battery Life and Charging 

The Safari Note+ offers a battery life of up to 10 hours and includes the convenience of charging while in use, ensuring uninterrupted productivity.

Its USB-C to USB-A charging cable allows for versatile charging options, including direct connection to laptops or power adapters.

However, users should be mindful of maintaining regular charging habits to prevent battery degradation over time. 

APPLE PENCIL Battery Life and Charging 

The Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to the iPad for both charging and storage, providing a convenient and integrated solution. 

This magnetic attachment ensures the Pencil is always charged and readily accessible.

However, this design may pose challenges for users who utilise protective cases that are incompatible with magnetic charging.

BATTERY LIFE AND CHARGING COMPARISON 

LAMY SAFARI NOTE+  APPLE PENCIL
  • Battery lasts up to 10 hours 
  • Attatches magnetically for both charging and storage
  • Can be used while charging 
  • Using a protective case may prevent magnetic charging 

Aesthetic Appeal

LAMY SAFARI NOTE+ Aesthetic Appeal

The LAMY Safari Note+ retains the iconic design elements of LAMY's traditional pens, appealing to users who appreciate a classic and professional aesthetic.

Its availability in four colors including white, red, all-black, and steel black, allows users to select a style that aligns with their personal preferences. 

APPLE PENCIL Aesthetic Appeal

The Apple Pencil's minimalist design complements the sleek appearance of modern iPads, embodying Apple's signature aesthetic.

While visually appealing, it offers limited customisation options, which may be a drawback for users seeking a more personalised touch.

AESTHETIC APPEAL COMPARISON 

LAMY SAFARI NOTE+  APPLE PENCIL
  • Iconic LAMY design 
  • Apple's signature aesthetic 
  • Available in four colours (white, red, all-black, steel black)
  • Only one colour available


Conclusion

Both the LAMY Safari Note+ and the Apple Pencil present compelling features tailored to different user needs.

The Apple Pencil excels in seamless integration and precision, making it a formidable tool for digital artists and those deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem.

However, the LAMY Safari Note+ distinguishes itself with superior ergonomics, a more tactile writing experience, and thoughtful design elements that prioritise user comfort and practicality.

For individuals seeking a digital writing instrument that bridges the gap between traditional penmanship and modern technology, the LAMY Safari Note+ emerges as a commendable choice.

For a full in-depth review of the LAMY Safar Note+ take a look here. 






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