Getting started with Bamboo Ink: smart stylus optimized for Windows Ink

Getting started with your Bamboo Ink

Here’s an easy step-by-step guide on how to set up Bamboo Ink and get started with Windows Ink (the quick and easy pen-driven feature on your Windows 10 device).

A smart stylus for writing, note-taking and annotating, for Windows Ink. Follow these 4 easy steps to set-up your Bamboo Ink. Or see the video here.

Select your product

The newest Bamboo Ink

If you have the newest Bamboo Ink, pictured above, begin your set up by clicking below.

Continue here

Have an older Bamboo Ink?

If you have the previous generation Bamboo Ink, pictured above, begin your set up by clicking below.

Continue here

Bamboo Ink second generation set up image

Setting up your new Bamboo Ink

Step 1: Check your Windows device

To check if your Windows device is compatible with Bamboo Ink, see the list of tested devices on this page.

For best experience, we recommend you to update the driver of your Windows device. Click here to download the “Bamboo Ink stylus” to your device. Please follow the on screen instructions.

Step 2: Install the battery

Twist the top end of your Bamboo Ink to unlock it. Open it to insert the battery as indicated, then close and twist the top end to lock it.

Please make sure to install the battery “–” side up.

Step 3: Side-switches

Your side-switches are set as below.
A: Right click
B: Eraser * depending on apps.

Step 4: Changing the protocol setting

Your Bamboo Ink supports two protocols. The stylus needs to match the protocol of your Windows device. If the stylus does not work on your device, you can easily switch the mode.

Press and hold both side-switches at the same time for two seconds to switch between protocols. Repeat to return to the previous protocol.

Bamboo Ink first Generation set up image

Setting up your previous generation Bamboo Ink

Step 1: Check your Windows device

To check if your Windows device is compatible with Bamboo Ink, see the list of tested devices on this page.

Some devices require a driver update. To check if your device is one of these, see the below list. If your device is not listed, please continue with step 2. If your device is on this list please click here to download the driver “Bamboo Ink stylus” to your device. Save it on your device, then double click the file to install the driver. Please follow the instructions on screen.

Dell™ Venue 10 Pro™
5000 Series (5055)
Fujitsu LIFEBOOK^® P727
Fujitsu LIFEBOOK^® T937
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
HP Elite x2 1012 G2

HP ENVY 8 Note Tablet
HP Pro x2 612 G2
Lenovo™ Miix 510
Lenovo™ Miix 720
Lenovo™ ThinkPad^®
10 (2nd Gen)

Lenovo™ ThinkPad^®
X1 Tablet
Lenovo™ ThinkPad^®
X1 Yoga™
Lenovo™ ThinkPad^®
Yoga 260
Toshiba dynaPad N72

Step 2: Install the battery

Twist the top end of your Bamboo Ink to unlock it. Open it to insert the battery as indicated, then close and twist the top end to lock it.

Step 3: Choose the right compatibility mode

Your Bamboo Ink supports two compatibility modes. The mode needs to match the mode of your Windows device. If the stylus does not work on your device, you can easily switch the mode.

Press and hold both side buttons at the same time for two seconds to switch between modes. Repeat to return to the previous mode.

Step 4: Pair your stylus with your device

1. On your Windows 10 desktop, click on Start, select Settings, go to Devices, choose Bluetooth, and turn it on.

2. Now take your Bamboo Ink, hold down the top button for about six seconds – until the LED starts to flash.

3. Choose Bamboo Ink from the list of discovered devices and select Pair.

Step 5: Open Windows Ink Workspace and apps

Press the top button once to quickly launch Windows Ink Workspace.

Double-click the top button to open screen sketch.

Press and hold the top button to open Sticky Notes.

Change the default settings at your convenience. Go to Start, select Settings, and then go to Devices and customize what your Bamboo Ink does in Pen & Windows Ink.

Now your Bamboo Ink is ready for use. You may also adjust it to your needs.

Choose the right nib for your favorite on-screen feel

Accessories (sold separately): Nib kit – soft, medium and firm – to best suit your way of working.

To exchange the current nib, stick it into the small hole in the built-in nib remover of the nib kit. Tilt the stylus and remove the nib.

Slide to open the nib kit and choose from left to right: firm (black), medium (gray) or soft (black).

Press up gently to install the nib of your choice. Make sure the nib is resting properly.

See the video here

Check out pen-optimized apps

Windows Ink

Sticky Notes, sketchpad, screen sketch: The Windows Ink Workspace comes with three pre-installed apps that help you set your ideas in motion with your Bamboo Ink.

Bamboo Paper

Bamboo Paper turns your device into a paper notebook. Capture your thoughts and ideas, notes, sketches and drawings as straightforward and easy as in a real paper notebook.

Learn more about Bamboo Paper ::before ::after

Windows Ink

Sticky Notes, sketchpad, screen sketch: The Windows Ink Workspace comes with three pre-installed apps that help you set your ideas in motion with your Bamboo Ink.

Bamboo Paper

Bamboo Paper turns your device into a paper notebook. Capture your thoughts and ideas, notes, sketches and drawings as straightforward and easy as in a real paper notebook.

Learn more about Bamboo Paper ::before ::after

Recommendations and guidelines for cleaning your Wacom product

All Wacom products can be safely cleaned with 70 or 75 percent isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) when applied to a soft lint free cloth. Lightly wipe the moistened cloth on the hard, nonporous surfaces of your Wacom product, such as the display, or other exterior surfaces. Don't use bleach. Avoid getting moisture in any opening, and don't submerge your Wacom product in any cleaning agents. See below for additional tips or please contact your regional Wacom customer service team.

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