What do you do if your Wacom pen doesn't work?

Doesn't the pen of your Wacom drawing tablet respond? That might be due to a worn pen nib. In addition, it's possible the Wacom driver isn't up-to-date. In this article, you can read how to solve these problems in 4 steps. This way, you can get started with your Wacom drawing tablet in no time.

Get started with your Wacom stylus
Measure pen nib
New pen nibs
Replace pen nib
Update driver

Get started with your Wacom stylus

Follow these steps and get started creatively with your stylus and drawing tablet.

Measure the pen nib
Use a new pen nib
Replace the pen nib
Update

View all Wacom pens

Step 1: measure the pen nib

Find out if your pen nib is really worn down. You need a ruler for this.

Put the ruler next to the pen and measure the length.
When the pen nib is shorter than 1mm, you have to replace it.
Is it longer than that? Go to step 3 and perform an update.

Step 2: use a new pen nib

All Wacom drawing tablets come with a spare pen nib. It's often hidden in the pen itself.

With Intuos models, you can slide open the hatch on the backside.
With Intuos & Cintiq drawing tablets, you can twist open the pen holder.
Don't you have spare pen nibs? Buy new pen nibs. You can buy a spare pack at Coolblue.

Step 3: replace the pen nib

You can read how to replace the pen nib of your Wacom pen in 2 steps.

Pull the old nib straight out of the pen with tweezers, pliers, or similar tools.
Slide the new pen nib straight into the shaft of the pen and push the pen nib in slowly until you feel resistance.
Now test if the pen does respond. Does the pen still not work? Go to step 4.