17 Best Note Taking Apps That Actually Make You More Productive (2025)

After testing over 50 different note taking apps, I can confidently say finding the best note taking app can actually transform your productivity.

The right app does more than store information—it helps you organize and find that information efficiently. Whether you need Microsoft OneNote's freeform canvas for flexible note-taking or Apple Notes' seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem, your choice matters. Google Keep offers 15GB of free storage with excellent Google service integration, while Notion excels at collaboration for team projects. For those seeking advanced capabilities, Obsidian allows you to create an interlinked digital database, and Joplin stands out as the best open-source alternative to Evernote with its strong privacy focus.

What makes these tools truly powerful? Specifically, features like cross-device synchronization, clean interfaces, and advanced search functionality that works across various formats—including PDFs and images. Indeed, whether you're a student taking class notes, a professional organizing work materials, or someone who needs note access across Windows, Mac, iPad, iPhone, Android, or Samsung tablets, we've identified the 17 best options that will help you stay organized in 2025.

Microsoft OneNote

Microsoft OneNote stands out as a digital notebook that offers endless possibilities for organizing information. I've found its infinite canvas approach particularly refreshing among note taking apps, allowing me to click anywhere on the page to start typing, drawing, or adding content.

Microsoft OneNote Key Features

OneNote organizes content hierarchically with notebooks, sections (colored tabs), and pages. This structure makes sorting through extensive notes remarkably straightforward. Furthermore, the app includes powerful tagging capabilities for categorizing information and finding it later through search.

The web clipper extension saves entire articles or portions of websites directly to your notebooks. Additionally, OneNote features impressive drawing tools that work with stylus input, making handwritten notes and sketches feel natural. The OCR technology can recognize text within images, though searches through this content require extra configuration ^[1].

Real-time collaboration allows multiple users to edit notebooks simultaneously, much like in Google Docs. For audio notes, OneNote timestamps recordings, linking them to text notes taken during meetings.

Microsoft OneNote Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Robust free version with minimal limitations
• Excellent integration with Microsoft Office apps
• Cross-platform availability (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android)
• Flexible organization system
• Infinite canvas for freeform note-taking

Cons:

• Sometimes loses formatting when pasting content ^[2]
• Table editing tools lack features available in other Office products ^[2]
• Can overwhelm new users with numerous features ^[2]
• Limited export options to other platforms ^[2]

Microsoft OneNote Pricing

The free version includes 5GB of OneDrive storage ^[1]. For more space, Microsoft 365 Basic costs $19.99/year for 100GB ^[1]. Microsoft 365 Personal ($99.99/year) provides 1TB storage plus desktop Office apps ^[1].

Best For Microsoft OneNote Users

OneNote works especially well for students capturing lecture notes, professionals organizing research, and teams collaborating on projects. The app shines for visual thinkers who appreciate organizing information spatially rather than linearly.

Apple Notes

Apple Notes has evolved from a simple text editor into a powerful yet straightforward note taking app that seamlessly fits into the Apple ecosystem. Since major updates in 2015, I've watched this preinstalled app become increasingly capable.

Apple Notes Key Features

At its core, Apple Notes excels in organization through a folder-based system with smart folders that automatically sort notes based on custom criteria ^[3]. The app supports tags for easy filtering and powerful search capabilities that can recognize text within images and attachments ^[4]. Security is robust with end-to-end encryption when Advanced Data Protection is enabled ^[5].

Collaboration features allow sharing notes and folders with other iCloud users ^[6]. Moreover, the app includes impressive document scanning, checklists, and table creation tools. Quick Notes lets you jot thoughts from anywhere on your device without opening the full app ^[7].

For Apple Pencil users on iPad, Notes offers natural handwriting experiences with the Scribble feature converting handwriting to text ^[8].

Apple Notes Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Completely free with Apple devices
• End-to-end encryption for locked notes
• Seamless synchronization across Apple ecosystem
• Clean, distraction-free interface
• Quick Notes feature for capturing thoughts instantly

Cons:

• Limited formatting options compared to competitors
• Only fully accessible on Apple devices (limited web version)
• No template options
• Basic collaboration features
• No version history tracking

Apple Notes Pricing

Apple Notes is free and requires no subscription ^[3]. However, iCloud storage limits apply: 5GB free storage comes with every Apple ID, with paid options starting at $0.99/month for 50GB ^[7].

Best For Apple Notes Users

I've found Apple Notes ideal for Apple ecosystem users seeking a no-frills, reliable solution. It works exceptionally well for quick captures, meeting notes, and everyday organization. Notably, the app shines for iPad users with Apple Pencil who appreciate the natural writing experience and instant accessibility from the lock screen ^[6].

Google Keep

Google Keep captures my attention with its minimalist approach to note-taking, offering a sticky-note inspired interface that prioritizes speed and simplicity above all else. Launched in 2013, this free tool has become my go-to for quick captures and visual organization.

Google Keep Key Features

Google Keep excels at rapid note creation with its prominent "Take a note..." text box that allows instant typing. Each note can hold up to 19,999 characters and supports images (limited to 10MB each). Unlike many competitors, Keep doesn't count these images against your Google storage limit.

The app offers color-coding for visual organization and labels (up to 50) for categorization. Time and location-based reminders sync with Google Calendar, while collaboration features enable real-time editing with others.

I particularly value the mobile app's unique capabilities, including voice notes with automatic transcription and drawing tools. Additionally, Keep's optical character recognition can extract text from images, making handwritten notes and receipts searchable.

Keep integrates seamlessly with other Google services—notes can appear in Gmail's sidebar, and you can convert any note into a Google Docs document with one click.

Google Keep Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Completely free with unlimited notes
• Lightning-fast note creation
• Seamless cross-device synchronization
• Voice-to-text transcription
• Excellent Google Workspace integration

Cons:

• No text formatting options (bold, italic, etc.)
• Limited organizational tools (no notebooks or sections)
• Only accepts image attachments (GIF, JPEG, JPG, PNG)
• Basic web clipper compared to competitors
• 20,000 character limit per note
  

Google Keep Pricing

Google Keep is entirely free—you only need a Google account. All notes, images, and audio files don't count toward your Google storage limit.

Best For Google Keep Users

I find Google Keep ideal for quick-capture scenarios and visual thinkers who prefer color-coding over hierarchical organization. It's perfect for shopping lists, brief thoughts, and collaborative tasks that don't require formatting. Essentially, it's best for those already embedded in the Google ecosystem seeking a lightweight, accessible note-taking solution.

Notion

Notion redefines what a note taking app can be, standing out as an all-in-one workspace where I can build virtually anything—from simple notes to complex project management systems. First and foremost, this versatile platform has become my digital Swiss Army knife for organizing information.

Notion Key Features

Notion's building-block approach lets me construct pages using customizable elements called blocks. These include text, images, tables, and databases that can be arranged however I need. In addition, its linking system creates connections between pages, functioning like a personal wiki.

The platform excels at collaboration, offering real-time editing with teammates and granular permission controls. Despite being browser-based, Notion works offline, automatically syncing changes once reconnected.

For note-taking specifically, I appreciate how Notion supports various formats—text notes, checklists, embedded media—all within a flexible organizational structure of nested pages and databases.

Notion Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unmatched flexibility and customization options
• Powerful database capabilities for structured information
• Excellent collaboration features
• Cross-platform availability (browser, desktop, mobile)
• Robust free version for individual use

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve than simpler note apps
• Can become distracting with endless customization possibilities
• Occasionally slower performance with large databases
• Limited offline functionality compared to dedicated note apps
• More complex than needed for basic note-taking
  

Notion Pricing

Free: Unlimited pages and blocks for personal use, 5MB file uploads Plus: $10/month with unlimited file uploads, 30-day page history Business: $15/user/month including SAML SSO, 90-day page history Enterprise: Custom pricing with advanced security and controls

Best For Notion Users

To put it differently, Notion shines for users who want to build comprehensive knowledge systems rather than just take notes. It's ideal for researchers organizing complex information, teams collaborating on projects, and content creators developing structured workflows.

Obsidian

For knowledge management enthusiasts, Obsidian represents a powerful approach to note-taking that goes beyond simple document creation. This markdown-based system creates an interconnected web of notes that mirrors how our brains naturally make connections.

Obsidian Key Features

First and foremost, Obsidian's bidirectional linking allows me to create connections between related notes, building a comprehensive knowledge graph. As I work, the graph view visually displays these connections, revealing patterns in my thinking I might otherwise miss. Given that Obsidian stores all notes as local markdown files, I maintain complete control over my data while ensuring offline accessibility.

The Canvas feature functions as an infinite digital whiteboard where I can arrange and connect notes visually. Furthermore, Obsidian's extensive plugin ecosystem (with thousands of community-created options) enables deep customization to match my specific workflow needs.

Obsidian Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Complete data privacy with local storage
• Powerful organizational capabilities through bidirectional linking
• Extensive customization via themes and plugins
• Active community providing support and resources
• Works offline with no internet connection required

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve for beginners
• Requires knowledge of markdown formatting
• Limited mobile functionality compared to desktop
• Potential overwhelm from extensive customization options
• Regular maintenance needed for effective knowledge management

Obsidian Pricing

Obsidian is free for personal use with no limitations. Optional paid services include:

• Sync: $4/month (billed annually) for cross-device synchronization with end-to-end encryption
• Publish: $8/month (billed annually) for creating online knowledge bases
• Commercial license: $50/user/year (optional support for business use)

Best For Obsidian Users

Consequently, Obsidian excels for lifelong learners who enjoy connecting ideas across different subjects. It's particularly valuable for researchers, writers, and knowledge workers who need to organize complex information. The app suits those who value data privacy and prefer customizable systems over rigid structures. Users willing to invest time in setting up their personal knowledge management system will find Obsidian extraordinarily rewarding, especially compared to simpler note-taking alternatives.

Joplin

Joplin brings privacy-focused, open-source note taking to the forefront, establishing itself as a compelling alternative to proprietary apps. Launched in 2017 by developer Laurent Cozic, this free application has gained popularity among users who prioritize data ownership and security.

Joplin Key Features

Joplin stores notes in Markdown format, making them portable and accessible even outside the app. Alongside this, its "offline-first" approach ensures all notes remain available without an internet connection. The app shines with end-to-end encryption for secure synchronization across various cloud services including Nextcloud, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Joplin Cloud ^[9].

Organization happens through notebooks and sub-notebooks, complemented by a tagging system for flexible categorization. The robust search functionality works across all platforms to quickly locate information. Additionally, Joplin offers a web clipper extension for Firefox and Chrome that saves webpages and screenshots directly into your notes ^[9].

Customization options abound through plugins and themes, allowing personalization of the interface and functionality ^[9]. The multimedia support enables attaching images, videos, PDFs, and audio files to enrich your notes ^[10].

Joplin Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Completely open-source and free for core features
• Strong privacy focus with end-to-end encryption
• Cross-platform availability (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS)
• Markdown support for portable notes
• Extensive synchronization options
• Import capability for Evernote files

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve due to Markdown reliance
• Basic user interface compared to competitors
• No real-time collaboration in free version
• Limited multimedia support compared to alternatives
• Mobile apps less polished than desktop versions

Joplin Pricing

Joplin's core application is completely free. For cloud synchronization and additional features, Joplin Cloud offers three tiers:

• Basic: €2.99/month (€28.69/year) with 2GB storage
• Pro: €5.99/month (€57.48/year) with 30GB storage
• Teams: €7.99/month per user (€80.28/year) with 50GB storage ^[11]

Educational institutions receive a 50% discount for students and teachers ^[11].

Best For Joplin Users

I find Joplin particularly suitable for privacy-conscious users seeking complete control over their data. Its open-source nature appeals to those who value transparency and data ownership. Furthermore, the app works well for researchers needing to consolidate information from various sources into structured notebooks ^[12]. Finally, Joplin excels for users transitioning from Evernote, offering a similar workflow with straightforward import capabilities.

Simplenote

In the world of feature-packed note taking apps, Simplenote takes a refreshingly different approach with its minimalist design. This streamlined app focuses exclusively on text-based notes without the bells and whistles that can sometimes distract from the core purpose of capturing ideas.

Simplenote Key Features

Simplenote shines with its cross-platform compatibility across iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring your notes are accessible regardless of device. The real-time syncing happens automatically—no manual sync button needed—keeping your information updated everywhere.

For organization, Simplenote employs a straightforward tagging system instead of folders or notebooks. The clean, distraction-free interface prioritizes writing while Markdown support provides basic formatting capabilities. Notably, the app includes version history that backs up notes with every change, allowing you to revisit previous versions.

Collaboration features enable sharing notes with others and publishing content to the web. The instant search function quickly finds text across all notes, even highlighting keywords for easy scanning.

Simplenote Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Completely free with no premium tier or advertisements
• Lightning-fast performance even with thousands of notes
• Automatic real-time syncing across all devices
• Clean, distraction-free writing environment
• Full version history of all notes

Cons:

• No support for file attachments or images (except Markdown links)
• Basic security without end-to-end encryption
• Limited organizational tools compared to competitors
• No drawing capabilities or multimedia support
• Minimal formatting options

Simplenote Pricing

Simplenote is entirely free. Previously, it offered a premium option at $10 per year, but now all features are available at no cost. The company sustains operations through voluntary contributions under Simplenote Sustainer Plans.

Best For Simplenote Users

Simplenote works best for writers, students, and professionals who need a reliable tool for quickly capturing text-based information. It's ideal for users who value simplicity over complex features and want a consistent experience across multiple platforms. Overall, this app excels for those seeking a focused writing environment without distractions.

Bear

Bear captivates with its award-winning design esthetic, earning Apple's prestigious Design Award for its elegant approach to note taking. This beautifully crafted app creates a minimalist environment specifically for Apple users seeking both style and substance.

Bear Key Features

First and foremost, Bear offers seamless Markdown support for effortless formatting alongside a flexible tagging system that organizes notes with hashtags. The app provides a clean, distraction-free writing interface that stays out of your way while you work. Furthermore, Bear Pro users gain access to iCloud sync, multiple export formats, and note encryption for additional security. The OCR search functionality allows users to find text inside photos and PDFs across all notes, making even handwritten content discoverable. Users can personalize their experience with over 28 themes and customize app icons to match their esthetic preferences.

Bear Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Beautiful, minimal interface that reduces distractions
• Powerful tagging system for intuitive organization
• Privacy-focused approach (data stays between you and iCloud)
• Markdown formatting for versatile text styling
• Excellent search capabilities including within attachments

Cons:

• Limited to Apple ecosystem (iOS and macOS only)
• No web version available for cross-platform access
• Free version has significant limitations
• Required subscription for essential features like sync
• Steeper price for new users compared to existing customers

Bear Pricing

The free version offers limited functionality with basic features. Bear Pro comes with a 7-day free trial, subsequently costing $2.99/month or $29.99/year (15% savings with annual billing). Existing customers are grandfathered into lower rates of $1.49/month or $14.99/year. Pro unlocks iCloud sync, multiple export formats, encryption, themes, and OCR search.

Best For Bear Users

Accordingly, Bear works best for Apple devotees who appreciate esthetic design alongside functionality. Writers seeking a distraction-free environment will enjoy its clean interface and Markdown support. In particular, those who organize through tagging rather than folders will find Bear's approach refreshing. The app naturally suits anyone creating personal knowledge bases or journals who values both privacy and beautiful design in their note taking experience.

UpNote

UpNote impresses with its polished design and thoughtful features, making it a standout among note taking apps created by smaller development teams. This elegant application balances simplicity with functionality, offering a clean workspace that keeps distractions at bay.

UpNote Key Features

UpNote excels in organization with flexible methods including hashtags, nested notebooks, and note pinning. The editor provides comprehensive rich text options alongside Markdown support for those who prefer coding-style formatting. I find the automatic syncing across devices particularly seamless, with offline access ensuring notes remain available without internet connection.

The app offers elegant themes including excellent dark modes for distraction-free writing. Likewise, the web clipper extension for Chrome, Safari, and Firefox makes capturing online content straightforward. Focus mode hides all menus and distractions when you need to concentrate on writing. For security, UpNote includes passcode protection on mobile and password locking on desktop.

UpNote Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Clean, clutter-free interface that enhances productivity
• Automatic backups with version history for all notes
• Seamless cross-platform experience (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux)
• Affordable lifetime purchase option versus subscription
• Fast performance even on older devices

Cons:

• File attachments limited to 20MB each
• No end-to-end encryption currently offered
• Free version restricted to only 50 notes
• Web version unavailable, desktop/mobile apps only
• Premium features not directly purchasable on Windows/Linux

UpNote Pricing

The free version allows up to 50 notes with basic features. Premium options include:

• Monthly subscription: $1.99/month
• Lifetime license: $39.99 (one-time payment)

Premium unlocks unlimited notes, attachments, tables, code blocks, protection features, themes, and export options. Upgrading on one device extends premium to all platforms through account syncing.

Best For UpNote Users

On balance, UpNote serves users seeking a streamlined yet capable note taking experience without subscription fatigue. It works wonderfully for writers needing distraction-free environments and researchers requiring organized knowledge bases. Generally, anyone transitioning from Evernote will find the familiar structure comfortable while enjoying significantly better performance and more reasonable pricing.

Evernote

Evernote has maintained its position as a versatile note taking app since 2008, evolving into a comprehensive tool for capturing and organizing information. I've found its ability to handle various content types particularly valuable for managing both personal and professional projects.

Evernote Key Features

Evernote's organizational system utilizes a three-level hierarchy: notes (basic content units), notebooks (collections of related notes), and notebook stacks (groups of notebooks) ^[13]. This structure streamlines content management across devices. The robust search functionality allows finding information by title, keywords, dates, or content type—even locating text within PDFs, images, and handwritten notes ^[13].

The Web Clipper extension saves web content directly into your notebooks, preserving articles without ads ^[14]. Furthermore, Evernote integrates with popular services like Google Drive, Slack, and Microsoft Teams ^[15]. Tasks and calendar features connect your notes with schedules, creating a unified workspace for planning ^[15].

Evernote Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Intuitive interface with customizable layouts
• Powerful search capabilities across all content types
• Excellent integration with third-party applications
• Robust organizational tools with tags and notebooks
• Offline access to notes (in paid plans)

Cons:

• Limited free plan with only 50 notes and 1 notebook ^[16]
• Relatively expensive premium plans compared to alternatives
• No password protection for individual notes ^[15]
• Mobile app sometimes performs slower than desktop version ^[15]
• Sharing with non-Evernote users can be challenging ^[13]

Evernote Pricing

Evernote offers tiered pricing with graduated features:

• Free: 50 notes maximum, 1 notebook, 250MB monthly uploads, 1 device limit ^[16]
• Personal: CA$13.33/month ($159.99/year) with 150,000 notes, 2,000 notebooks, 10GB monthly uploads ^[16]
• Professional: CA$17.49/month ($209.99/year) adding AI-powered search and 20GB monthly uploads ^[16]
• Enterprise: Custom pricing with enhanced security and administration features ^[16]

Best For Evernote Users

Primarily, Evernote serves users who need to collect and organize diverse information types. It excels for professionals managing multiple projects simultaneously, researchers compiling reference materials, and teams requiring collaborative workspaces. The app functions effectively as a "universal file cabinet" ^[17] for storing everything from meeting notes to receipts. In fact, with its scanning capabilities and search features, Evernote proves valuable for anyone seeking to create a searchable digital brain for both work and personal life.

ClickUp

ClickUp combines project management with robust note-taking abilities, making it a standout choice for teams seeking to centralize information while connecting it to actionable tasks. Initially developed as a productivity platform, ClickUp has evolved to include impressive note-taking capabilities.

ClickUp Key Features

ClickUp Notepad serves as a digital notebook for capturing quick ideas that can be instantly converted into trackable tasks. The platform's Docs feature supports rich text editing with headers, bullets, colors, and checklists for organized information management. ClickUp Brain, an AI assistant available for an additional $7 per user monthly, summarizes lengthy notes, creates tables, and quickly retrieves information from anywhere in your workspace. The Clips feature allows users to share screen recordings directly within notes, adding visual context that traditional note-taking apps often lack. Surprisingly, ClickUp's real-time collaboration detection shows when teammates are viewing or editing content simultaneously, enhancing team coordination.

ClickUp Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Seamless conversion of notes into trackable tasks with deadlines
• Extensive customization options for organizing information
• Powerful collaboration tools with real-time editing
• Comprehensive integration with 50+ platforms
• Chrome extension for capturing web content

Cons:

• Overwhelming interface for simple note-taking needs
• Steep learning curve with numerous features
• Limited mobile functionality compared to desktop
• Restricted free plan (100MB storage)
• Monthly automations capped based on plan level

ClickUp Pricing

The Free Forever plan includes unlimited tasks and basic features with 100MB storage. The Unlimited plan costs $7-10 per user monthly with unlimited storage and integrations. Business plan runs $12-19 per user monthly, removing limits on most features. Enterprise pricing is customized, offering advanced security and administration features.

Best For ClickUp Users

ClickUp excels for teams needing to transform notes directly into action items. It's ideal for project managers who document meeting notes while assigning tasks simultaneously. Furthermore, researchers building knowledge bases will appreciate connecting notes to broader project contexts. Yet independent users seeking simple note-taking might find ClickUp's extensive capabilities excessive.

Zoho Notebook

Zoho Notebook stands out with its visually appealing approach to note taking that prioritizes both esthetics and functionality. This cloud-based solution offers a refreshing take on digital notebooks with handcrafted covers and interactive note cards that respond to your touch.

Zoho Notebook Key Features

Fundamentally, Zoho Notebook shines with its intuitive organization system where notes function as "cards" that can be grouped magnetically or color-coded for visual management. The app automatically syncs across devices with cloud backup ensuring your notes remain accessible anywhere. Alongside basic text, the platform supports scanning documents, storing business cards, and recording audio up to an hour long in paid versions.

Security receives serious attention through passcode protection and Touch ID/Face ID authentication. Every note maintains version history—up to 10 versions in free plans, 100 in Pro, and 1000 in Business plans. Primarily, Notebook's distinctive Smart Cards automatically format content from supported websites into beautiful layouts, while Zia, Zoho's AI assistant, helps with voice commands and content organization.

Zoho Notebook Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Beautiful interface with customizable notebook covers
• Free tier with generous features
• Strong privacy focus (no third-party tracking)
• Excellent organization with tags and visual grouping
• Seamless cross-platform experience (iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Linux)

Cons:

• File size limited to 100MB in free version
• OCR capabilities restricted to paid plans
• No password protection for individual notes in free version
• Sometimes slows after adding multiple images
• Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors

Zoho Notebook Pricing

The free Essential plan includes 2GB storage with basic features. Notebook Pro costs €1.67/month (billed annually) with 100GB storage and advanced features. The Business plan runs €4.16/user/month with 1TB storage for up to 10 users, plus 100GB for each additional user.

Best For Zoho Notebook Users

Zoho Notebook excels for visually-oriented users who appreciate esthetic design alongside functionality. Based on customer testimonials, it serves teams requiring collaborative workspaces, particularly within creative industries. For those concerned about privacy, Zoho's commitment to not monetizing user data or using third-party tracking makes it an ethical choice among note taking apps.

Standard Notes

Standard Notes prioritizes security above all other aspects in the note taking landscape, offering a fortress-like approach to protecting your personal information. As someone who values data privacy, I find its security-first philosophy compelling.

Standard Notes Key Features

Standard Notes excels with end-to-end encryption using XChaCha20-Poly1305, one of the strongest encryption methods available ^[18]. This ensures that no one—not even Standard Notes employees—can access your data. The app undergoes regular independent security audits for verification of its cryptographic integrity ^[18]. Most importantly, Standard Notes' entire codebase is open-source, allowing public scrutiny of how data is handled ^[18].

Beyond security, the app provides cross-platform syncing across web, desktop, and mobile devices. The editing experience varies based on subscription level, with the powerful "Super note" type available to paid users ^[2].

Standard Notes Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Industry-leading encryption that's independently audited
• No tracking or intrusive analytics tools ^[18]
• Cross-platform availability with offline access
• Excellent customer support according to user testimonials ^[19]
• Automated encrypted email backups

Cons:

• Premium features like rich text editing require paid subscription
• Interface appears dated to some users ^[19]
• Super note interface can feel unintuitive initially ^[19]
• Client-side premium features not available on self-hosted servers ^[20]
• Mobile experience sometimes slows with large databases ^[1]

Standard Notes Pricing

Standard Free: Includes end-to-end encryption, unlimited sync, plain text notes, and basic organization ^[2].

Productivity: $90/year unlocks markdown editing, rich text, checklists, spreadsheets, and 1-year revision history ^[2].

Professional: $120/year adds 100GB encrypted storage, family sharing (up to 5 accounts), and unlimited revision history ^[2].

Students receive a 30% discount on any plan ^[2].

Best For Standard Notes Users

Standard Notes serves privacy-conscious users seeking complete data ownership. The app particularly suits journalists, researchers, and anyone handling sensitive information who requires bulletproof security. For those willing to pay for the Productivity tier, it transforms into a comprehensive knowledge management system with powerful organization tools.

Agenda Notes

Agenda Notes merges time management with note-taking through its unique timeline approach, connecting your thoughts to specific dates and calendar events. Unlike traditional apps, Agenda organizes information chronologically, treating notes as stepping stones in your ongoing projects.

Agenda Notes Key Features

Agenda's distinctive timeline spans past, present, and future notes, allowing you to track project progress holistically. Notes can be attached to specific dates or linked directly to calendar events for seamless meeting preparation. The "On the Agenda" feature highlights important notes in the sidebar for quick access. Beyond that, the styled-text editor supports headings, lists, tables, and formatted blocks while maintaining a clean interface. Naturally, the app integrates with Apple Calendar and Reminders, displaying events alongside your notes and enabling quick task creation. Attachments support includes images, PDFs, and other files with multiple display options.

Agenda Notes Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Seamless integration with Apple Calendar and Reminders
• Date-based organization ideal for project tracking
• Clean, distraction-free interface with customizable themes
• Unique pricing model that lets you keep purchased features forever
• Strong privacy focus with no third-party access to your data

Cons:

• Limited to Apple ecosystem (iOS, iPadOS, macOS)
• Collaboration features need refinement (no permissions control)
• Single font type and size limits formatting options
• Limited photo interaction capabilities
• Yearly subscription needed for continuous premium updates

Agenda Notes Pricing

Agenda offers a free version with core functionality that never expires. The premium features require a one-time in-app purchase that permanently unlocks current premium features. Hence, any new premium features released during your subscription period remain yours even if you don't renew. Options include a yearly subscription or a lifetime purchase, with features like custom colors, tags, templates, and collaboration.

Best For Agenda Notes Users

Agenda Notes serves professionals who organize work chronologically around meetings and deadlines. Throughout my testing, I found it excels for anyone managing dated projects requiring documentation of decisions over time. It's particularly valuable for Apple ecosystem users who appreciate elegant design alongside practical calendar integration.

Nebo

Nebo excels at transforming handwritten notes into perfectly formatted text, establishing itself as the gold standard for handwriting recognition among note taking apps. Throughout my testing, I found its ability to recognize even messy handwriting astonishingly accurate.

Nebo Key Features

Nebo's standout feature is its real-time handwriting conversion, displaying a preview of recognized text as you write. The app offers three distinct note types: notebooks with fixed-size pages, documents for structured content that reflows automatically, and PDF annotation capabilities. Sketching feels natural with three pen options (felt, fountain, and brush) in multiple sizes that can be tested before use. Additionally, the app converts hand-drawn shapes to perfect forms when you hold your pen after drawing. Math equation recognition allows solving calculations and converting formulas to LaTeX. Presently, Nebo supports an impressive 66 languages for handwriting recognition, with English recognized alongside any other selected language.

Nebo Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Superior handwriting recognition that works with cursive and sloppy writing
• Cross-platform availability (iOS, Android, Windows, ChromeOS)
• Mix handwriting and typed text even within the same word
• Intuitive pen gestures for editing (scratching to erase, underlining for emphasis)
• PDF import and annotation capabilities

Cons:

• Free version limited to only 5 expandable pages
• Different pricing across platforms requires separate purchases
• No true web version available
• Syncing requires paid version on most platforms
• Limited collaboration features compared to team-oriented apps

Nebo Pricing

The iOS/iPadOS app is free to download with a 5-page limit. Full functionality requires in-app purchases with different pricing across platforms: iOS users pay approximately $14.99, Android users $11.99, and Windows users $9.99. Therefore, using Nebo across multiple platforms could cost up to $35 total. The pricing model lacks a subscription option, offering one-time purchases instead.

Best For Nebo Users

Fundamentally, Nebo serves note-takers who prefer handwriting but need digital text's searchability and shareability. It's particularly valuable for students taking lecture notes, professionals in meetings, and anyone working with mathematical content. Furthermore, Apple Pencil or active stylus users will extract maximum value from Nebo's precise handwriting capabilities.

Goodnotes

Goodnotes transforms the iPad into a digital paper experience, making it one of the best note taking apps for those who prefer handwritten notes with digital benefits. This versatile tool combines the feel of traditional note-taking with powerful digital capabilities.

Goodnotes Key Features

Goodnotes excels with its digital notebook approach, allowing users to combine handwriting and typed text on the same page. The app recognizes handwriting, making notes searchable even when written by hand. Alongside basic notes, it supports PDF annotation, document scanning, and interactive flashcards using spaced repetition for effective studying. Apple Pencil Pro users gain access to special features like Barrel Roll for dynamic ink thickness control and Squeeze functionality that summons a floating toolbar wherever your pen is positioned.

Goodnotes Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Customizable templates with adjustable sizes and colors
• Strong Apple Pencil integration with natural writing experience
• AI-powered features for text improvement and handwriting recognition
• Cross-platform availability (recently expanded to Windows and Android)
• Robust organization with multi-colored folders and nested structure

Cons:

• Free version limited to only 3 notebooks
• Full features require subscription or one-time payment
• Audio recording limited to 20 minutes in free version
• Different pricing models across platforms
• Exported documents include watermarks in free version

Goodnotes Pricing

The free tier includes 3 notebooks with basic features. Apple users can choose between a one-time payment of $29.99 or an annual subscription of $9.99. Android and Windows users pay $6.99 yearly with no one-time option. The "All Platforms Yearly" plan costs $9.99 annually with access across all devices.

Best For Goodnotes Users

Goodnotes serves students needing organized lecture notes, digital planners seeking beautiful customization options, and professionals requiring PDF annotation capabilities. Firstly, anyone invested in the Apple ecosystem with an Apple Pencil will extract maximum value from this polished note taking app.

Freeform

Freeform brings Apple's vision of collaborative brainstorming to life with its infinite canvas approach that sets it apart from traditional note taking apps. Released in late 2022, this digital whiteboard app provides unique opportunities for visual thinkers and team collaborators.

Freeform Key Features

Freeform offers an expansive, limitless canvas that grows as you add content, eliminating concerns about layouts or page sizes ^[21]. The app supports a diverse range of content including photos, videos, audio, documents, PDFs, and web links that can be previewed inline without leaving the board ^[21]. Drawing tools include pen, pencil, and crayon options with adjustable opacity and color, alongside shape libraries containing over 700 options ^[21]. Collaboration features allow up to 100 users to work simultaneously on a shared board with real-time participant cursors ^[21]. Primarily, Freeform integrates with FaceTime and Messages, enabling users to collaborate while on calls or share boards through message threads ^[21].

Freeform Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Free with Apple devices running iOS 16.2+, iPadOS 16.2+, or macOS Ventura 13.1+
• Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem (Calendar, Messages)
• Real-time collaboration with participant cursors
• Supports wide range of media formats
• iCloud syncing keeps boards updated across devices

Cons:

• Limited to Apple ecosystem only
• Minimal board customization options (only plain or dotted templates) ^[22]
• Handwriting tools lack refinement compared to dedicated note apps ^[22]
• Collaboration features can be buggy at times ^[22]
• No folder organization system for boards [22]
  
  
  

Freeform Pricing

Freeform is completely free and comes preinstalled on compatible Apple devices ^[21].

Best For Freeform Users

Throughout my testing, Freeform proved ideal for visual brainstorming sessions where multiple ideas need spatial arrangement. Yet the app serves Apple users who need collaborative workspaces for team projects, educators creating visual learning materials, and anyone who thinks in non-linear ways. Admittedly, those seeking structured note-taking might prefer more traditional apps, as Freeform excels as a complement to—not replacement for—apps like Apple Notes.

Comparison Table

App Name	Platform Availability	Key Distinctive Features	Pricing	Best Suited For	Notable Limitations
Agenda Notes	iOS, iPadOS, macOS	Timeline-based organization, Calendar integration	Free version + Premium features (one-time purchase)	Professionals managing dated projects	Limited to Apple ecosystem
Apple Notes	iOS, iPadOS, macOS	End-to-end encryption, Smart folders, Quick Notes	Free (5GB iCloud storage)	Apple ecosystem users, Quick captures	Limited to Apple devices
Bear	iOS, macOS	Markdown support, Hashtag organization	Free + Pro ($2.99/month)	Apple users seeking minimal design	Apple ecosystem only
ClickUp	Cross-platform	Task conversion, AI assistant (Brain)	Free + Paid ($7-19/user/month)	Teams needing task management	Complex interface
Evernote	Cross-platform	Web Clipper, OCR search	Free + Premium ($13.33/month)	Universal file management	Limited free plan
Freeform	iOS, iPadOS, macOS	Infinite canvas, 100-user collaboration	Free	Visual brainstorming	Apple ecosystem only
Goodnotes	iOS, Android, Windows	Digital paper experience, Handwriting recognition	Free + $29.99 one-time or $9.99/year	Students, Digital planners	Limited free version
Google Keep	Cross-platform	Quick capture, Voice notes	Free (15GB storage)	Quick captures, Visual organization	Basic formatting only
Joplin	Cross-platform	Open-source, End-to-end encryption	Free + Cloud ($2.99/month)	Privacy-focused users	Steep learning curve
Microsoft OneNote	Cross-platform	Infinite canvas, Office integration	Free (5GB) + Microsoft 365	Students, Visual thinkers	Complex formatting issues
Nebo	iOS, Android, Windows	Advanced handwriting recognition	One-time purchase ($9.99-$14.99)	Handwriting users	Limited free version
Notion	Cross-platform	Database capabilities, Templates	Free + Paid ($10/month)	Knowledge management	Steep learning curve
Obsidian	Cross-platform	Bidirectional linking, Local storage	Free + Optional sync ($4/month)	Knowledge workers	Markdown knowledge required
Simplenote	Cross-platform	Minimalist design, Version history	Completely free	Text-focused note-taking	No file attachments
Standard Notes	Cross-platform	End-to-end encryption, Open-source	Free + Paid ($90/year)	Privacy-conscious users	Limited free features
UpNote	Cross-platform	Clean interface, Version history	Free + Premium ($1.99/month)	Streamlined note-taking	50-note free limit
Zoho Notebook	Cross-platform	Card-based organization, Smart Cards	Free + Pro (€1.67/month)	Visual organizers	Limited file size

Conclusion

Finding the right note-taking app transforms how you capture and organize information. Throughout my extensive testing of these 17 apps, several patterns emerged that might help you choose your ideal digital notebook.

Different apps clearly serve different needs. Microsoft OneNote offers flexibility with its infinite canvas, while Apple Notes provides seamless integration for those committed to the Apple ecosystem. Users prioritizing privacy might prefer Standard Notes or Joplin with their end-to-end encryption. Visual thinkers will appreciate Freeform or Goodnotes, whereas minimalists might gravitate toward Simplenote's clutter-free approach.

Your specific requirements should guide your selection. Students taking lecture notes might benefit from handwriting-focused apps like Nebo or Goodnotes. Professionals managing multiple projects could find Evernote or ClickUp more suitable. Knowledge workers building interconnected systems will likely extract maximum value from Obsidian or Notion.

Most apps offer free versions or trials, allowing experimentation before committing. This approach helps determine which interface feels most natural for your workflow. Certainly, the perfect note-taking app varies for each person—what works wonderfully for one user might feel restrictive to another.

Ultimately, the best note-taking app is one you'll actually use consistently. Whether you need cross-platform accessibility, robust organization features, or specialized capabilities like handwriting recognition, at least one app on this list should align with your requirements. The digital note-taking landscape continues to evolve, making this an excellent time to find a tool that genuinely enhances your productivity rather than complicating it.

FAQs

Q1. What are some of the best note-taking apps available in 2025? Some of the top note-taking apps in 2025 include Microsoft OneNote, Apple Notes, Google Keep, Notion, and Obsidian. Each offers unique features catering to different user needs, from cross-platform availability to advanced organization tools.

Q2. Which note-taking app is best for privacy-conscious users? For users prioritizing privacy, Standard Notes and Joplin are excellent choices. Both offer end-to-end encryption and open-source code, ensuring that your personal notes remain secure and private.

Q3. What's a good note-taking app for visual thinkers? Visual thinkers might prefer apps like Freeform or Goodnotes. Freeform offers an infinite canvas for brainstorming, while Goodnotes provides a digital paper experience with handwriting recognition.

Q4. Is there a note-taking app that works well across multiple platforms? Yes, several apps offer cross-platform compatibility. Microsoft OneNote, Evernote, and Notion are all excellent choices for users who frequently switch between different devices and operating systems.

Q5. What note-taking app is recommended for students? Students might find apps like Goodnotes or Nebo particularly useful. These apps offer features like handwriting recognition, PDF annotation, and organizational tools that can help with taking and reviewing lecture notes.

References

[1] - https://www.g2.com/products/standard-notes/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons
[2] - https://standardnotes.com/plans
[3] - https://paperlike.com/blogs/paperlikers-insights/apple-notes-review?srsltid=AfmBOopqPkbB8ShQlka-A3Rvt1J9UI2GmqXtmkPZTipQP0D3RKTvSDkE
[4] - https://medium.com/@paralloid/nothing-but-apple-notes-exploring-hidden-features-629999375815
[5] - https://www.reddit.com/r/macapps/comments/17k27mj/my_apple_note_taking_journey/
[6] - https://support.apple.com/en-us/118442
[7] - https://zapier.com/blog/apple-notes-review/
[8] - https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/things-you-didnt-know-apples-notes-app-could-do
[9] - https://github.com/laurent22/joplin
[10] - https://joplinapp.org/
[11] - https://joplinapp.org/plans/
[12] - https://clickup.com/blog/joplin-vs-obsidian/
[13] - https://crm.org/news/evernote-review
[14] - https://evernote.com/features
[15] - https://projectmanagers.net/the-pros-and-cons-of-using-evernote-software/
[16] - https://evernote.com/en-us/compare-plans
[17] - https://bryankramer.com/a-peek-inside-how-i-use-evernote-to-organize-my-life/
[18] - https://standardnotes.com/privacy
[19] - https://theprivacydad.com/im-sticking-with-standard-notes/
[20] - https://standardnotes.com/help/self-hosting/subscriptions
[21] - https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2022/12/apple-launches-freeform-a-powerful-new-app-designed-for-creative-collaboration/
[22] - https://beingpaperless.com/apple-freeform-everything-you-need-to-know/