Microsoft offers innovation and excellence in its Windows hardware through its Surface brand of devices. These touchscreen devices gives users a different kind of experience in using a Windows computer. There are various innovative designs available to cater to different needs of the ever growing group of sophisticated users.
However, there have been reports of error with the Surface Pen. Some users say that their Surface Pens won’t write, open apps, or connect to Bluetooth. There are several solutions on how you can resolve these errors. Check out the methods below and see which ones work for you.
How to Troubleshoot and Fix Surface Pen Can’t Write, Open Apps or Connect to Bluetooth
1 – Try Using your Surface Pen with Other Apps

You may be experiencing problem with the app you are using with your Surface Pen. But, it is possible that your pen may still be functional in other apps. Before trying the other troubleshooting methods below, try using your pen with other apps like Sticky Notes, OneNote or Microsoft Whiteboard. If your pen works, it may be that the app is the problem. If it still does not work, try using other methods to check the problem.
2 – Pair Bluetooth with your Surface Device

- Turn on the Bluetooth pairing mode by pressing and holding the top button of your pen until the LED light blinks.
- Next, go to Start and click on Settings.
- Proceed to Devices and open Bluetooth & other devices.
- Check if your Bluetooth is on. If not, turn on your Bluetooth. If yes, click on Add Bluetooth or other device. Select Bluetooth.
- On the list of devices available, select Surface pen. Pair it and select Done once finished.
3 – Update Your Windows on Surface

- Go to Start and open the Settings window.
- Proceed to Update and Security and choose Windows Update.
- Then, click on Check for updates and wait for Windows to automatically install updates if available. Once there are updates installed, restart your computer.
4 – Check the Surface Pen Battery

Sometimes, the problem lies on batteries not working on your pen. You will have to try and replace them with new ones to see if the problem is with your batteries. Take note that you will need 2 batteries for your pen to work. One is used for the pen itself and the second is used to function the buttons. You will then need to connect the pen after you have changed the batteries.
Another way to check the battery is through these steps. First, make sure that your pen is paired so you can check the settings.
- Go to Start and click on Settings.
- Navigate to Devices and choose Bluetooth and other devices.
- You can now look at the battery level of your pen and see if it needs charging or replacement.
5 – Check the Pen & Windows Ink Settings

- Click on Start and navigate to Settings.
- Once in the settings window, look for Device and click to open.
- Go to Pen & Windows Ink. You can now check your pen pressure settings.
- Click on the Surface app to open.
- Choose the Pen tab and make your adjustments. Check if the cursor and top button works.
6 – Restart your Surface Device

- Completely turn your Surface Device off by pressing and holding the Power button for 30 seconds.
- Next, press and hold the Power and Volume Up buttons until you will see the Surface logo flashing on the screen.
- Release the buttons and wait for a few seconds before restarting your device. Check if the problem still exists.
Conclusion
Maximize your Surface device experience with a fully functional Surface Pen. The methods above can help you solve your problem when your pen won’t write, open an app, or connect to Bluetooth. Let us know in the comments below if the solutions are helpful to you.