Best Smartphones with Stylus: Top Picks for Note-Taking & More

Best smartphones with stylus, these devices offer a unique blend of productivity and creativity, allowing users to seamlessly transition between note-taking, drawing, and everyday tasks.

The integration of a stylus enhances the user experience, providing a more natural and intuitive way to interact with the device. Whether you’re a professional seeking a more efficient way to take notes or a creative individual looking to unleash your artistic potential, smartphones with styluses offer a compelling alternative to traditional methods.

Smartphones with Styluses

Smartphones with styluses offer a unique and versatile way to interact with your device, combining the convenience of touchscreens with the precision and control of a pen. These devices have gained popularity due to their ability to enhance productivity, creativity, and overall user experience.

Benefits of Using a Stylus

Using a stylus with a smartphone offers numerous advantages over using your fingers alone. The most significant benefit is the increased accuracy and control it provides, particularly for tasks requiring fine motor skills, such as drawing, writing, and note-taking. Styluses also allow for a more natural and comfortable writing experience, especially for extended periods, and can reduce the risk of smudges and fingerprints on the screen.

Key Features to Consider

When choosing a smartphone with a stylus, several key features are important to consider. These features can significantly impact your overall experience and satisfaction with the device.

Stylus Sensitivity and Pressure Levels

The sensitivity and pressure levels of a stylus determine its ability to detect subtle variations in pressure, translating to a more nuanced and natural writing experience. Higher sensitivity levels allow for more precise line thickness and shading, while pressure levels enable the stylus to respond to the force applied, creating realistic strokes and effects.

Stylus Latency

Stylus latency refers to the delay between when you touch the screen with the stylus and when the device registers the input. Low latency is essential for a smooth and responsive writing experience, particularly for tasks requiring real-time interaction, such as drawing or note-taking.

Palm Rejection Technology

Palm rejection technology is a crucial feature that prevents accidental inputs from your palm resting on the screen while writing. This technology allows you to write naturally without worrying about unintended strokes or marks, enhancing the overall writing experience.

Stylus Storage and Charging

The way a stylus is stored and charged is an important consideration. Some devices have a built-in stylus slot, while others require separate cases or magnetic attachments. Styluses may also require charging, which can be done wirelessly or through a separate charging port.

Top Smartphones with Stylus

Smartphones with styluses offer a unique blend of functionality and creativity, allowing users to interact with their devices in a more intuitive and precise way. The stylus provides a natural writing and drawing experience, making it ideal for note-taking, sketching, and even gaming.

Top Smartphones with Stylus

Here’s a table showcasing some of the top smartphones with styluses, their price ranges, key features, and pros and cons:

| Smartphone Name | Price Range | Key Features | Pros and Cons |
|—|—|—|—|
| Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | $1,199+ | 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, 108MP main camera, S Pen with low latency, 5,000mAh battery | Pros: Excellent display, powerful processor, impressive camera system, precise S Pen with low latency, long battery life. Cons: Expensive, bulky design. |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 | $1,799+ | 7.6-inch foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, 50MP main camera, S Pen with low latency, 4,400mAh battery | Pros: Unique foldable design, large display for multitasking, powerful processor, precise S Pen with low latency. Cons: Expensive, fragile design, limited app compatibility. |
| Huawei Mate 40 Pro | $1,000+ | 6.76-inch OLED display, Kirin 9000 processor, 50MP main camera, M-Pen 2 with low latency, 4,400mAh battery | Pros: Excellent display, powerful processor, impressive camera system, precise M-Pen 2 with low latency. Cons: Limited app availability due to US sanctions, no Google services. |
| Xiaomi Mi Pad 5 Pro | $400+ | 11-inch LCD display, Snapdragon 870 processor, 13MP main camera, Xiaomi Stylus with 4,096 pressure levels, 8,600mAh battery | Pros: Large display ideal for drawing and note-taking, powerful processor, long battery life, affordable price. Cons: Not a phone, limited app compatibility compared to smartphones. |

Stylus Features and Functionality: Best Smartphones With Stylus

Styluses for smartphones come in various forms, each with its own unique set of features and capabilities. Understanding these differences can help you choose the best stylus for your needs, whether you’re looking to take notes, draw, or play games.

Types of Styluses

Styluses for smartphones can be broadly categorized into two main types: passive and active. Passive styluses are simple, non-powered tools that work by interacting with the touchscreen of a smartphone. Active styluses, on the other hand, are more sophisticated, requiring a battery and Bluetooth connectivity to interact with compatible smartphones.

• Passive Styluses: These styluses are typically made of rubber or plastic and do not require any power source. They work by simulating finger pressure on the touchscreen, allowing users to interact with the device without smudging the screen. Passive styluses are generally more affordable and readily available, but they lack the advanced features of active styluses.
• Active Styluses: Active styluses are more sophisticated and offer a range of advanced features, including pressure sensitivity, palm rejection, and hover capabilities. They require a battery and Bluetooth connectivity to function, and they are typically compatible with specific smartphones or tablets. Active styluses are generally more expensive than passive styluses, but they offer a much more refined and precise user experience.

Stylus Functionality

Stylus functionality varies depending on the type of stylus and the device it is being used with. However, some common features include:

• Pressure Sensitivity: This feature allows the stylus to detect the amount of pressure applied to the screen, resulting in varying line thicknesses and shading. This is particularly useful for drawing and note-taking applications.
• Palm Rejection: This feature prevents accidental input from the user’s palm resting on the screen while writing or drawing. This is crucial for maintaining accuracy and precision.
• Hover Capabilities: Some active styluses offer hover capabilities, allowing users to interact with the screen without actually touching it. This feature can be used for tasks such as scrolling through documents or navigating menus.

Stylus Applications

Styluses can be used for a wide range of tasks, including:

• Note-taking: Styluses are excellent for taking notes, especially when combined with pressure sensitivity. They allow for a more natural writing experience compared to using a finger on the screen.
• Drawing: For artists and designers, styluses offer a precise and responsive drawing experience. Pressure sensitivity allows for nuanced shading and detail, while palm rejection prevents accidental input from the user’s hand.
• Gaming: Some games are designed to be played with styluses, offering a more immersive and accurate experience. This is particularly true for games that require precision input, such as strategy games or puzzle games.

Software and Apps for Stylus Use

The stylus, as an input device, has revolutionized the way we interact with smartphones, opening up a world of possibilities for note-taking, drawing, and even gaming. Software developers have taken advantage of this, creating a vast array of apps designed to enhance the user experience with a stylus. These apps, tailored for stylus functionality, fall into several categories based on their core functionalities.

Note-Taking Apps

Note-taking apps are designed to provide a seamless and intuitive experience for capturing ideas, jotting down notes, and sketching diagrams. These apps often offer features such as handwriting recognition, annotation capabilities, and integration with cloud storage.

• Samsung Notes: Samsung Notes, pre-installed on most Samsung devices, offers a comprehensive note-taking experience. It seamlessly integrates with the S Pen, allowing users to write, draw, and annotate documents with precision. The app supports various note formats, including handwritten notes, text, and drawings. It also offers features such as handwriting recognition, cloud storage, and the ability to create to-do lists and reminders.
• Nebo: Nebo is a powerful note-taking app known for its advanced handwriting recognition capabilities. It supports multiple languages and offers a variety of pen styles and colors. Nebo allows users to create handwritten notes, draw diagrams, and even convert handwritten text into editable text. It also features the ability to organize notes into notebooks and export them in various formats.
• GoodNotes 5: GoodNotes 5 is a popular note-taking app designed for iPad users. It offers a realistic writing experience with a variety of pen types, colors, and paper textures. The app supports PDF annotation, allowing users to mark up documents, take notes during meetings, and highlight important information. GoodNotes 5 also features cloud storage and synchronization across devices.

Drawing and Illustration Apps

Drawing and illustration apps empower users to unleash their creativity by providing tools for sketching, painting, and designing. These apps often offer a wide range of brushes, colors, and layers, along with features like pressure sensitivity and tilt support.

• Adobe Fresco: Adobe Fresco is a powerful drawing and painting app that leverages the power of the Adobe Creative Cloud. It offers a wide range of brushes, including live brushes that mimic real-world media like oil paints and watercolors. Fresco supports pressure sensitivity and tilt, allowing users to create intricate and detailed drawings. It also features a powerful layer system and integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps.
• Procreate: Procreate is a popular drawing and painting app for iPad users known for its user-friendly interface and powerful features. It offers a vast library of brushes, colors, and textures, along with advanced features like pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and time-lapse recording. Procreate also features a layer system, blending modes, and the ability to create animations.
• Autodesk Sketchbook: Autodesk Sketchbook is a free drawing and sketching app available for both Android and iOS devices. It offers a simple and intuitive interface, making it suitable for beginners and experienced artists alike. Sketchbook features a wide range of brushes, colors, and tools, including pressure sensitivity and tilt support. It also allows users to create custom brushes and import images for reference.

Productivity Apps

Productivity apps enhance the user experience by providing tools for organization, task management, and collaboration. These apps often integrate with stylus functionality, allowing users to take handwritten notes, annotate documents, and mark up tasks.

• Microsoft OneNote: Microsoft OneNote is a versatile note-taking and organization app that offers a wide range of features for productivity. It allows users to create handwritten notes, annotate documents, and organize information into notebooks. OneNote also supports collaboration, allowing multiple users to work on the same notes simultaneously. The app integrates seamlessly with the stylus, allowing users to take handwritten notes and draw diagrams with precision.
• Notability: Notability is a popular productivity app for iPad users that offers a comprehensive suite of features for note-taking, audio recording, and annotation. It supports handwriting recognition, audio recording, and PDF annotation. Notability also features a powerful search function, allowing users to easily find specific notes or information. The app integrates seamlessly with the Apple Pencil, allowing users to take handwritten notes and draw diagrams with precision.
• Evernote: Evernote is a note-taking and task management app that allows users to capture ideas, organize notes, and manage tasks. It supports handwriting recognition, allowing users to take handwritten notes and convert them into text. Evernote also features cloud storage and synchronization across devices, making it easy to access notes from anywhere. The app integrates with the stylus, allowing users to take handwritten notes and annotate documents with precision.

Entertainment Apps

Entertainment apps offer a wide range of possibilities for stylus use, from drawing games to interactive stories. These apps often leverage the stylus’s pressure sensitivity and tilt support to create immersive and engaging experiences.

• Drawing Games: Drawing games such as “Draw Something” and “Pictionary” allow users to draw images based on prompts. The stylus provides a more precise and natural drawing experience, enhancing the gameplay.
• Interactive Stories: Interactive story apps such as “Choice of Games” and “Choice of the Dragon” allow users to make choices that affect the story’s outcome. The stylus can be used to navigate through the story and make choices, adding a layer of interactivity.
• Digital Painting Apps: Digital painting apps such as “ArtRage” and “Sketchbook” allow users to create digital paintings and drawings. The stylus provides a more natural and intuitive painting experience, allowing users to control brush strokes and blend colors with precision.

Comparison of Top Stylus Smartphones

Choosing the best stylus smartphone for your needs can be challenging, given the variety of models available. To make the decision easier, this section will compare some of the top contenders based on key criteria, including display size and resolution, processor and RAM, battery life, camera quality, and software features. By analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of each device, you can determine which one best suits your specific requirements.

Display Size and Resolution

The display is crucial for stylus use, as it’s the canvas for your notes, sketches, and other creations. The following table compares the display size and resolution of popular stylus smartphones:

Device	Display Size	Resolution
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra	6.8 inches	1440 x 3088 pixels
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra	6.9 inches	1440 x 3088 pixels
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4	7.6 inches (unfolded)	1768 x 2208 pixels
Huawei Mate 40 Pro	6.76 inches	1344 x 2772 pixels
Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold	8.01 inches (unfolded)	1860 x 2480 pixels

As you can see, most of these devices offer large displays with high resolutions, ensuring sharp and detailed visuals. However, the Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold stands out with its even larger display size and slightly lower resolution.

Processor and RAM

The processor and RAM are vital for smooth performance, especially when using a stylus for demanding tasks like note-taking, drawing, or editing. The following table compares the processor and RAM of the top stylus smartphones:

Device	Processor	RAM
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2	8GB, 12GB
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra	Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+	8GB, 12GB
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1	12GB
Huawei Mate 40 Pro	HiSilicon Kirin 9000	8GB
Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold	Qualcomm Snapdragon 888	12GB

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 offer the most powerful processors and ample RAM, ensuring smooth and responsive performance for stylus-based tasks. The Huawei Mate 40 Pro, with its Kirin 9000 processor, is also a powerful option.

Battery Life

Battery life is crucial for prolonged stylus use, especially if you plan to use your device for extended periods for note-taking, drawing, or other creative tasks. Here’s a comparison of the battery life of popular stylus smartphones:

Device	Battery Capacity
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra	5000 mAh
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra	4500 mAh
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4	4400 mAh
Huawei Mate 40 Pro	4400 mAh
Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold	5020 mAh

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold offer the largest battery capacities, providing extended usage time. However, battery life can vary based on usage patterns, so it’s important to consider your individual needs.

Camera Quality

For those who use their stylus smartphones for photography and videography, camera quality is a crucial factor. The following table compares the camera specifications of the top stylus smartphones:

Device	Main Camera
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra	200MP
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra	108MP
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4	50MP
Huawei Mate 40 Pro	50MP
Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold	108MP

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra stands out with its impressive 200MP main camera, offering exceptional detail and clarity. The other devices also boast high-resolution cameras, ensuring excellent image quality.

Software Features

Software features are essential for enhancing the stylus experience. The following table compares the software features of the top stylus smartphones:

Device	Software Features
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra	Samsung Notes, S Pen Air Actions, S Pen to Text
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra	Samsung Notes, S Pen Air Actions, S Pen to Text
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4	Samsung Notes, S Pen Air Actions, S Pen to Text
Huawei Mate 40 Pro	M-Pencil Support, HUAWEI Notes
Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold	Xiaomi Notes, Stylus Air Actions

Samsung devices offer a comprehensive suite of stylus-specific features, including Samsung Notes, S Pen Air Actions, and S Pen to Text. The Huawei Mate 40 Pro also provides M-Pencil support and HUAWEI Notes. Xiaomi Mi Mix Fold offers Xiaomi Notes and Stylus Air Actions.

Choosing the Right Smartphone with Stylus

Choosing the right smartphone with a stylus can be a daunting task, as there are several factors to consider. From screen size and display quality to stylus functionality and battery life, it’s important to find a device that meets your specific needs and preferences.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Smartphone with Stylus

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a smartphone with a stylus:

• Screen Size and Display Quality: The screen size and display quality are crucial for a good stylus experience. A larger screen provides more space for drawing and writing, while a high-resolution display ensures sharp and detailed lines. Look for a device with an AMOLED or OLED display for vibrant colors and deep blacks.
• Stylus Functionality and Features: Different styluses have varying levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt detection, and latency. A higher level of pressure sensitivity allows for more nuanced strokes, while tilt detection enables you to create angled lines. Low latency ensures that the stylus responds quickly to your touch, providing a smooth and responsive writing experience.
• Software and App Support: The software and app support for stylus functionality are crucial for a seamless and enjoyable experience. Look for a device with a dedicated stylus app that provides features such as note-taking, drawing, and handwriting recognition.
• Battery Life and Charging: The battery life of the smartphone is essential, especially if you plan to use the stylus for extended periods. Consider a device with a long-lasting battery and fast charging capabilities.
• Price and Value: Smartphones with styluses can range in price from budget-friendly options to high-end flagship devices. Determine your budget and prioritize the features that are most important to you.

Choosing the Best Device Based on Individual Needs and Preferences

After considering the factors above, it’s important to select a device that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• What will you be using the stylus for? Are you primarily using it for note-taking, drawing, or productivity tasks?
• How often will you be using the stylus? If you plan to use it frequently, consider a device with a high-quality stylus and excellent software support.
• What is your budget? Smartphones with styluses can range in price, so it’s essential to set a budget before you start shopping.
• What other features are important to you? Consider features such as camera quality, processor speed, and storage capacity.

Recommendations for Specific Use Cases

Here are some recommendations for specific use cases:

Note-Taking

For note-taking, a device with a responsive stylus, a large screen, and good handwriting recognition software is ideal. The Samsung Galaxy Note series, with its S Pen stylus and Samsung Notes app, is a popular choice for note-taking.

Drawing

For drawing, a device with a high level of pressure sensitivity, tilt detection, and a low latency stylus is essential. The iPad Pro with Apple Pencil is a popular choice for artists, as it offers a very responsive and accurate drawing experience.

Productivity

For productivity tasks, a device with a stylus that can be used for both writing and drawing, along with a suite of productivity apps, is ideal. The Microsoft Surface Duo 2 with its Surface Pen is a good option for productivity, as it allows you to use the stylus for writing, drawing, and navigating the device.

Future Trends in Stylus Technology

The world of stylus technology is constantly evolving, with new innovations emerging that promise to enhance the user experience on smartphones and beyond. From improved pressure sensitivity to hover capabilities and augmented reality integration, these advancements are shaping the future of how we interact with our devices.

Improved Pressure Sensitivity

Pressure sensitivity is a crucial aspect of stylus technology, enabling users to create nuanced strokes and lines, mimicking the feel of traditional pen and paper. Recent advancements in pressure sensitivity have resulted in styluses that can detect even the subtlest variations in pressure, offering a more natural and responsive writing experience.

• Increased Levels of Sensitivity: Modern styluses now boast significantly higher levels of pressure sensitivity, often exceeding 4,096 levels of pressure detection. This allows for greater control and precision, enabling users to create more detailed and expressive artwork or handwritten notes.
• Improved Accuracy and Responsiveness: Advanced pressure sensitivity algorithms ensure that the stylus accurately reflects the user’s intended pressure, resulting in a more responsive and fluid writing experience. This is particularly beneficial for tasks that require precise control, such as digital sketching or handwriting recognition.

Hover Capabilities

Hover capabilities, also known as “air writing,” are a relatively new feature in stylus technology that allows users to interact with their devices without actually touching the screen. This technology uses sensors in the stylus to detect its proximity to the display, enabling users to perform actions like scrolling, selecting text, or even drawing in the air.

• Enhanced User Experience: Hover capabilities provide a more intuitive and efficient way to interact with devices, eliminating the need for constant physical contact with the screen. This is particularly beneficial for tasks that require precise control, such as editing images or navigating complex interfaces.
• Potential for New Applications: Hover technology opens up new possibilities for stylus-based applications, such as gesture recognition and 3D modeling. For instance, users could potentially manipulate virtual objects in 3D space by hovering the stylus over the screen and performing specific gestures.

Integration with Augmented Reality, Best smartphones with stylus

The integration of stylus technology with augmented reality (AR) is poised to revolutionize how we interact with the digital world. AR overlays digital content onto the real world, creating immersive experiences that blend the physical and virtual. Styluses can be used to interact with AR objects, manipulate virtual environments, and create interactive content.

• Interactive AR Experiences: Styluses can be used to draw, write, or annotate on AR objects, enhancing their interactivity and making them more engaging. For example, users could draw on a virtual whiteboard during an AR meeting or annotate a 3D model of a building during an architectural review.
• New Forms of Content Creation: The combination of stylus technology and AR opens up new possibilities for content creation. Users could create immersive AR experiences, design virtual objects, or even collaborate on projects in shared AR spaces.

Ultimate Conclusion

Ultimately, the best smartphone with a stylus for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the features, functionality, and overall user experience when making your decision. With a wide range of options available, you’re sure to find a device that perfectly complements your lifestyle and enhances your digital experience.

While the best smartphones with stylus often come with a premium price tag, you can still find great options at a more affordable price point. If you’re looking for the latest and greatest, be sure to check out the newest Android smartphone releases, as some of them may offer a stylus experience.

No matter your budget, there’s a stylus-equipped smartphone out there to enhance your productivity and creativity.