Also adding to the nostalgia of using an old-fashioned number two is the larger rubber tip, slightly bigger diameter (8mm) and increased length of the pen itself.

ENGADGET: Samsung Galaxy Note II review Mobile

Most are simple designs, essentially a pen with a rubber tip that mimics the conductive property and shape of a fingertip. (Steer clear of styluses with fine, hard plastic tips, which are designed for older gadgets like the PalmPilot and won't work with today's touch screens).

WSJ: The Pen Is Mightier Than the Swipe