What to try if your Surface Pen doesn't ink or write

If your Surface Pen isn't inking or writing, rest assured that there are some steps you can try to get it working again.

Before you start, here are some things to review. Check that your Surface device is compatible with Pen input.

Surface Laptop 5G for Business, Surface Laptop 13-inch 1st Edition, Surface Laptop (7th Edition) and Surface Laptop Go models are not compatible.
Make sure your Surface Pen has fresh batteries or is charged (if required).

Solution 1: Restart your Surface device

Sometimes, the problem isn't your Surface Pen. It might be the device itself. A restart can often improve connections between the device and accessory. To restart your Surface, select Start , select the Power , and then select Restart .

Solution 2: Test your pen features on a different app

Try drawing, writing, or erasing in OneNote, Sticky Notes, or Paint. If your pen works in one of these apps, the app you were using might not be compatible with your pen. If it isn't compatible, check with your app provider for additional support.

Solution 3: Manually install drivers

Your Surface device might be missing some drivers, such as Surface Touch firmware or HID-Compliant Touchscreen. These drivers are needed for your touchscreen to work. Downloading and installing drivers specific for your device model and Windows version might restore your touchscreen functionality. For more info, see Manually update Surface drivers and firmware.

Solution 4: Reset Surface

If you’re still having a problem with your touchscreen or inking capabilities, try resetting your Surface. For more info, see Restore or reset Surface for Windows and follow the recommended steps for Reset your Surface. After you reset and setup your Surface, try using your pen again.

Request a replacement pen

Note: Our premium Surface Slim Pen 2 is equipped with an easily removable pen tip. Removal is intended only for pen tip replacement. Excessive (500 or more) removal+ reinsertion cycles of the pen tip can damage the internal parts of the pen and lead to inking failures. Pen failure due to excessive removal and reinsertion cycles isn't covered under the product warranty.

If you'd like to request a replacement pen, go to Microsoft account | Select device for service and sign in with your Microsoft account. If your Surface device isn't listed, select Register device first. If your Surface device is registered, select it and follow the instructions.

When asked for the category of the issue, select Accessory and then you will be able to select from Pen issue types. You'll see replacement offers based on your warranty status and eligibility for exchange. To learn more about the Surface Warranty you can visit Surface Warranty Information.

If the warranty coverage has expired, you may also consider purchasing a new pen. Surface Pen and other accessories are available to purchase from the Microsoft Store and other retailers.

Note: If your Surface is a business device (owned by an organization), see Surface service options for Business and Education. Availability may be limited for some countries or products.

What to try if your Surface Pen doesn't ink or write

Solution 1: Restart your Surface device

Solution 2: Test your pen features on a different app

Solution 3: Manually install drivers

Solution 4: Reset Surface

Request a replacement pen

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