The Microsoft Surface Pen adds extra functionality to your Surface, but this stylus isn't without faults. It's been known to stop working on occasion, so here are some of the best solutions for fixing your Surface Pen so you can get back to writing, drawing, and multitasking on your Windows device.

The instructions in this guide apply to Surface devices running Windows 11or10.

How to Fix a Surface Pen Not Working

Try these fixes in order until your Surface Pen is working again.

1. Download the latest Windows update. If your Surface Pen doesn't work properly, it may be because the latest Windows update isn't installed on your Surface Pro, Go, Book, or Laptop. Performing an update downloads the latest Windows operating system patch, and it updates and fixes the device drivers used to make peripherals like the Surface Pen run properly.

2. Check the Surface Pen's battery. All Surface Pens are powered by an AAAA battery, and a flat battery could be the reason why the Surface Pen doesn't work.

   To check the battery in a Surface Pen, press and hold the eraser button on the end of the stylus for five to seven seconds. A small LED light should turn on. A green light means the battery has a charge, while a red light means it's almost flat and should be replaced. No light means the battery is dead.

   To replace the battery, openthe Surface Pen by firmly twisting and then pulling the eraser end of the stylus.

   There are three models of the Microsoft Surface Pen, each with slight variations in button location and design. All Surface Pens function in the same manner, and every tip on this page works with each model.

3. Pair your Surface Pen to your Surface Pro. If the Surface Pen's LED light turns on, but it's still not writing when you touch it to the screen, you may need to pair it through Bluetooth.

4. Try your Surface Pen in a different app. While you may think your Surface Pen is broken, you could be using an app that doesn't support it. The easiest way to test the Surface Pen is to open the Windows Ink Workspace by tapping thepen icon on the right side of the Windows Taskbar, near the clock. Once open, selectScreen sketchand draw on the screen with the Surface Pen.

   

5. Get your Surface Pen replaced. If your Surface Pen still doesn't work properly, it may be damaged and in need of replacement. If this is the case, reach out to Microsoft Support, either in person at a Microsoft Store or through the company's online support page.

Causes of a Surface Pen Not Working

Potential causes of a Surface Pen not working can be broken down into the following categories:

• Problems with Windows
• Problems with the battery
• Problems with the Bluetooth connection
• Problems with the Surface Pen itself
• App incompatibility

• How does the Surface Pen attach to my Surface Pro?

  The flat side of the Surface Pen has a magnet, allowing it to attach to the left side of your Surface Pro. However, it's recommended to get a carrying case for your Pen to keep it safe.
  

• How do I fix my Surface Slim Pen 2 not working?

  The steps for troubleshooting the Surface Slim Pen 2 are the same as the regular Surface Pen, but the Slim Pen 2 only works with the Surface 3 model and higher. It also works with the Surface Laptop, Surface Go, Surface Book, and Surface Duo.
  

• How do I take a screenshot on my Surface Pro without the pen?

  To take a screenshot on a Surface Pro, press and holdPower+Volume Up or Windows button+Volume Up. Alternatively, usePrtScnor the Snip & Sketch tool.