Download the Latest Windows 10 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 10 operating system patch, and it updates and fixes the device drivers used to make peripherals like the Surface Pen run properly.
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, open the Surface Pen by firmly twisting and then pulling the eraser end of the stylus.
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.
Are You Using the Correct Program or App?
After watching commercials for the Surface Pen and Surface range of devices, it’s easy to mistakenly believe that the Microsoft stylus can draw on any app at any time in Windows 10. However, the range of apps that support the Surface Pen isn’t infinite. While you may think your Surface Pen is broken, you could be using the incorrect app. The easiest way to test the Surface Pen is to open the Windows Ink Workspace by tapping the pen icon on the right side of the Windows 10 Taskbar, near the clock. Once open, select Screen sketch and draw on the screen with the Surface Pen.
Surface Pen Still Not Working?
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.
