> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/tech/digital-pen-tech.md).

# Digital pen tech

## Overview

There are many digital pen technologies. Drawing tablets use EMR, but other technologies offer a similar feature set.

## EMR

Traditional drawing tablets all use **EMR (Electromagnetic Resonance)**. More here: [EMR](/drawtab/tech/emr.md). It is also used by some mobile devices, such as Samsung Galaxy Tab S series tablets. We believe EMR offers the best overall drawing experience.

## Non-EMR

* **Active Electrostatic (AES)** - Used by many mobile devices. More here: [AES](/drawtab/tech/aes.md)
* **Apple Pencil tech** - Used only by Apple devices. More here: [Apple Pencil tech](/drawtab/tech/apple-pencil-tech.md)
* **Microsoft Pen Protocol (MPP)** - Used by Microsoft Surface devices and a few others. More here: [MPP](/drawtab/tech/mpp.md)
* **N-Trig** - Used by some older Microsoft Surface models.

## Reddit threads

* r/stylus: [Wacom AES vs EMR vs N-Trig](https://www.reddit.com/r/stylus/comments/kg660r/wacom_aes_vs_emr_vs_ntrig/)
* r/stylus: [MPP vs AES? For digital drawing](https://www.reddit.com/r/stylus/comments/pyosk5/mpp_vs_aes_for_digital_drawing/)
* r/stylus: [AES, EMR or both? How Apple Pencil exactly works?](https://www.reddit.com/r/stylus/comments/cimn3i/aes_emr_or_both_how_apple_pencil_exactly_works/)
* r/stylus: [Apple Pencil (active capacitive pen) vs Wacom Feel EMR](https://www.reddit.com/r/stylus/comments/k0fcrb/apple_pencil_active_capacitive_penvs_wacom_feel/)

## References

* **SLRLounge -** [**AES VS EMR | Choosing Between Wacom, iPad Pro, and Microsoft Surface Tech**](https://www.slrlounge.com/aes-vs-emr-choosing-between-wacom-ipad-pro-and-microsoft-surface-tech/)
* [**Wikipedia - Surface pen**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surface_Pen)