What to try if your Surface Pen doesn't ink

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: Reinstall the touchscreen driver

Surface Pen relies on touchscreen functionality. Make sure that your touchscreen drivers are installed correctly and working properly. This might also fix your pen.

1. On your Surface, right-click on Start   , then select Device Manager.

2. Select View at the upper-right of the Device Manager window > Show hidden devices.

   

3. Find Human Interface Devices on the list of devices displayed and select the arrow to expand the section.

4. Uninstall HID-complaint touchscreen drivers that are listed.

   • Right-click Intel (R) Precise Touch Device and select Uninstall device. Then select Uninstall in the Uninstall Device dialog.

   • Right-click HID-compliant touch screen and select Uninstall device. Then select Uninstall in the Uninstall Device dialog.

   • Repeat this process if you see any additional HID-compliant touch screen drivers.

     

5. Select Action at the upper-right of the Device Manager window > Scan for hardware changes. It will automatically download and install the touchscreen driver when connected to the internet.

6. Restart your Surface, select Start   , select Power   , and then select Restart   . After your Surface restarts, try using your pen. 

Solution 4: 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 5: 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

If these steps don't resolve the problem, you can request a replacement Surface Pen. Go to Device service and repair, sign in with your Microsoft account, and select a Surface or register a new device. 

After you select a registered device, you'll see replacement offers based on your warranty status and eligibility for exchange. For more info, see Surface warranty: FAQ.