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Upgrade Your Writing With The Best Smart Pens

  1. Livescribe Symphony Smartpen
  2. IOGEAR Accu-Tip Stylus for Tablets and Smartphone
  3. e-pens Mobile Notes Pro Smart Pen
  4. LogiPen Notes Digital Wireless Smart Pen
  5. Capturx for Microsoft OneNote
  6. Buyer's Guide

The smart pen is a recent advancement in communication technology, used primarily in the business and government sectors. But now, the consumer market has been granted access to this amazing new device which is still evolving even today. These pens are electronic and write in the very same manner as your standard ball-point Bic. The difference however, is that these pens can remember what you wrote and even record audio of those speaking around you, making transcription easier and worry-free.

Just upload the digital data to the software provided and in seconds it will translate your writing into a clean MS Word or PDF file that looks as if you typed it on your computer instead of scrawling it free-hand. Then you can email it or save it on your hard drive or do with it whatever you wish. Some of these pens even communicate with PDA devices and other organization programs as well.

If you think this is something that would greatly benefit your daily routine, we've found some of the best smart pens available right now. This is a technology that is still in its infancy, so there aren't too many on the market at the moment, with only a few companies blazing the trail with their products. Take a look at what we have on this list, each of best smart pen in 2022 chosen for their ease of use, set up, features, accuracy, memory size, and price.

What are the best smart pen of 2022?

Livescribe Symphony Smartpen - Best Smart Pen Overall

The Echo is a digital pen that comes equipped with a microphone which can record audio while you write. So if you're in a fast-paced environment where you need to take notes on the go, you have the ability to write and record audio at the same time, allowing you to double-check your notes against what was heard earlier.

Starting a new record session is as simple as tapping the tip of the pen to the special tablet that is required to use the Echo, which utilizes the company's MyScript optical recognition software. When you're done, all your written and recorded information is stored in a Flash file that can be uploaded to any PC and transferred to a PDF.

The Echo offers high security as well, enabled with password protection to keep your files and software safe from any prying eyes or fingers. Keep the pen tethered to your computer and watch your writing translated digitally before your very eyes. Another interesting feature on the Echo; you can use it as a mouse on any desktop or laptop. The Echo is available in three memory sizes: 2, 4 and 8GB.

IOGEAR Accu-Tip Stylus for Tablets and Smartphone - Runner Up

IOGear has made a smart pen that uses a combination of infrared and ultrasound algorithms to read the movements of the ergonomic device in your hand. A separate sensor utilizing the same MyScribe software as the Echo analyzes your positioning and trajectory as you write, making it open to use on any standard 8.5-by-11 inch size piece of paper. Just attach the sensor to the top of your paper and start scribbling away.

This smart pen will even track when and where you pause and switch pages, keeping an accurate account of your writing and the internal memory can store up to 50 pages before needing to be uploaded to the accompanying software. The pen is easily docked via USB which both charges and syncs the unit to your computer. The port will also enable you to stay tethered to your computer to see your writing converted in real time and, just like the Echo, the GPEN200N can be used in lieu of a mouse.

best e-pens Mobile Notes Pro Smart Pen

e-pens Mobile Notes Pro Smart Pen - Honorable Mention

The folks at e-pens have built their digital pen for easy functionality and effortless syncing capability with a whole list of apps. After all, that's what a smart digital pen is supposed to do, allow you to write anywhere, anytime to create a clean, easy to read text document. The Mobile Notes Pro offers all of this at a price that is on the higher end of the spectrum yet competitive with the other quality products available.

This pen works on any type of writing paper or surface; you simply clip the infrared receiver to the top of your page and it automatically begins to receive and recognize your writing from the pen. You will need to be delicate in making your mark, as the receiver is very sensitive. Knocking it around or otherwise disturbing the sensor will affect the resulting text, so you will want to be careful when you're writing or sketching; the Mobile Note Pro works great for both.

Make notes or drawings appear digitally via Bluetooth connection in a number of apps such as Evernote, Dropbox, Onenote, even Facebook. You have the choice of inputting directly into the apps or importing afterward. Eight hours of battery life when not using Bluetooth, and a lightweight design make this an easy choice for our list.

LogiPen Notes Digital Wireless Smart Pen - Consider

Another digital pen that uses the positional receiver clipped to any piece of paper or flat surface, the NOTES from LogiPen performs admirably for its low price of around $50 at most online retailers. It does wonders for your daily organization, allowing you to create digital text documents from your own handwriting, sketching, and hand-drawn artwork, and then uploading them to all Microsoft software programs. From there you can edit, share and store your work digitally with an easy to use interface.

There are some drawbacks though, the receiver sensor can't be knocked around or hindered in any way, otherwise your work will come out looking distorted and the receiver can only store up to 50 pages. LogiPen's unit will also let you use it as a mouse instead of a pen, but switching between the two devices is a bit of a pain in the neck. On the plus side, you do get up to 15 hours of battery life. While you will be making a few compromises here (lack of full app compatibility beyond Microsoft programs for example), at this price, if all you need is a device to get the basics done correctly, then give this one a look.

best Capturx for Microsoft OneNote

Capturx for Microsoft OneNote - Best Smart Pen

So you're probably wondering why this smart pen costs so much if it performs most of the same functions as the less expensive choices on our list. To start, the Capturx has been designed for use in extreme weather. The pen can survive major rainfall and sub-zero temperatures, so it's well-suited for those users who find themselves in specific situations. The military, for example, uses these pens because of how well they stand up to inclement environments.

As for the standard functionality of the pen, the Capturx uses a camera installed at the tip of the unit to create a digital print of almost anything including your handwriting, sketching, and drawings. It does this by interacting with the microdots embedded in the specialized surface of the required paper needed for operation. Syncing the pen to your computer is very simple with the Capturx software, and you can fill out any number of forms that you can print out on the microdot paper for total digital capture.

Bluetooth capability lets you connect the pen to your mobile devices, making it entirely portable. Battery life is respectable if you're not using the Bluetooth setting, but the storage capacity tops out at 50 pages. But it's really intended to be used directly with the Capturx software, sending your documents directly to your PC or devices, so this shouldn't be a major issue, unlike the LogiPen, which doesn’t allow you to interact with tablets and smartphones.

Buyer's Guide

If you are looking for a smart pen to add to your collection but don’t know where to start, then this is the right place. Our take on the best smart pens in 2021 will be sure to clear your doubts and suspicions.

Whether you are an avid note-taker or a teacher juggling classes post-pandemic, a good quality, compatible smart pen that will be your professional and personal tool is essential in today’s digital age. There are many important factors to consider when buying a smart pen, depending on what you are looking for. From tackling concerns like aesthetic preferences to more serious features like longevity and price, there is a smart pen for everyone.

However, figuring out which smart pen to invest in can be a confusing task- which is why we have prepared this buying guide to help you make your decision with ultimate confidence.

What is a Smart Pen?

Smart pens are a recent advancement in the technological world, designed to make writing and transcription much more efficient. Functioning in the same manner as a regular pen used on paper, smart pens often come with tweaks and customizations according to the expected user.

It does more than just write on a surface- you can use your smart pen to record audio, store each pen stroke, and even keep track of your pauses between pages. The pen can then be connected to a computer where it forms a digital copy of your handwritten notes which you can save or send as you please.

What to Look for in a Smart Pen

With the rise of tablets and smartphones, the novel concept of smart pens has also gained traction. However, diving into new technological innovations can seem daunting at first. This is why it is important to understand the aspects to look for when buying a smart pen.

Memory

One of the most important features to look for in a smart pen is the maximum amount of space the pen has to hold data. If you plan on using the pen frequently, you might want to consider spending a little more on a smart pen with at least 4 GB of memory- that way you can spend more time writing and less time worrying about when your last sync to a computer was.

Syncing

Another feature closely tied in with the memory a smart pen holds is its syncing mechanism. Some smart pens require you to sync your pen to a computer manually in order to retrieve the data it has captured. Others use software like Google Drive and Dropbox to automatically sync your notes as you write. Depending on your intended use, you may prefer to use either type of smart pen.

Special Features

Some smart pens come with additional features that can help you complete your tasks much more efficiently. Some examples of these special features include a built-in dictionary, translator, audio recorder, and even games.

Compatible Paper

Many smart pens work only on special paper dot paper. This paper contains a unique pattern of microdots on its surface which are used to track the pen’s movements. Others are able to work on any surface, including normal printer paper, journals, and post-it notes while still continuing to save your data. Being aware of whether a smart pen requires special compatible paper to function is very important before setting out to purchase it.

Who Should Use a Smart Pen?

A smart pen can be used by anyone wanting to keep a record of their note-taking habits and workspace with very little effort. Instead of you having to keep track of all the physical instances where you jotted down a note, you can have just one simple product remember it all for you.

People who may benefit the most from introducing a smart pen to their daily routine are those whose work requires them to spend a long amount of time planning and researching. Professions that may link to this include students, transcribers, and those working in government jobs where proper communication is critical.

How is a smart pen different from a regular pen?

Both smart pens and normal pens are used to write down thoughts and ideas on a physical surface. The difference between the two lies in the smart pen’s superior abilities to achieve much more. As discussed previously, smart pens have the ability to capture a user’s hand movements to create a digital copy of their notes, as well as some cool features involving audio recording and translation. Because of this, smart pens are much more expensive than regular pens and may also feel heavier and bulkier when using it to write.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I refill the ink of my smart pen?

When a smart pen runs out of ink, you do not need to go out and buy a new one. Most smart pens have removable ink cartridges inside them which are accessed when writing. If your smart pen runs out of ink, you can simply order an ink refill from your smart pen manufacturer and continue using the pen as desired.

Are smart pens helpful for students with disabilities?

Oftentimes it can be difficult for students with learning disabilities to capture all the modes of communication they are experiencing in a classroom at once. By using a smart pen, students can be at ease as their pens will be taking note of their surroundings, recording audio and tracking their notes that they can access at a later time.

Do I need to charge my smart pen?

A smart pen, like most gadgets, requires you to charge it periodically for it to function. You can charge your smart pen by plugging one end into the pen and the other into your computer. Almost all smart pens can be charged using a USB or micro USB cable and require you to leave it plugged in for about 2.5 hours to reach its full capacity. You can use your smart pen for up to 10 hours before it will require a charge, so make sure you do not overcharge it at risk of damaging the battery.

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