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Note Taking Apps

If you want to remember something, make sure to write it down! Whether it is a shopping list or what you decided at a work meeting, we need to take notes to assist our memory. Today, there is a plethora of note taking apps available – and here you find the best ones available for all devices.

Make sure to read the app descriptions and user reviews to find a suitable product. While some memo apps largely resemble an analog pen and notebook, others have more elaborate features where you can save images, audio and even take photos of handwritten notes and turn them digital with text-recognition software.

  1. Obsidian icon

    Obsidian

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    154 alternatives to Obsidian 

    Powerful knowledge base that works on top of a local folder of plain text Markdown files.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Support for MarkDownObsidian supports MarkDown for document formatting.
    2.  Works OfflineObsidian can be used without the need to connect to the internet.
    3.  No registration requiredYou can use most of the features in Obsidian without registration.
    4.  Extensible by Plugins/ExtensionsObsidian can be extended with add-ons, plugins and extensions.
    5.  Dark ModeObsidian supports dark mode for comfortable usage in low light conditions.
    6.  No TrackingObsidian will not track you or use your personal data.
    7.  PortableObsidian can be used from a USB stick or similar with no prior installation.
    8.  Calendar ViewObsidian has a built-in calendar view to have a clear overview of your content over time.
    9.  LightweightObsidian consumes less device resources compared to similar apps.
    Screenshot
    Top 3 alternatives
  2. Joplin icon

    Joplin

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    • Self-Hosted
    • AppImageHub
    • Snapcraft
    • Google Chrome
    • Flathub
    • Homebrew
    • Chocolatey
    • Termux
    • Firefox
    589 alternatives to Joplin 

    Joplin is a free, open source note taking and to-do application, which can handle a large number of notes organised into notebooks. The notes are searchable, can be copied, tagged and modified either from the applications directly or from your own text editor.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Support for MarkDownJoplin supports MarkDown for document formatting.
    2.  Cloud SyncSync your data (notes, documents, bookmarks, etc.) across your different devices and to the cloud.
    3.  End-to-End EncryptionJoplin has E2E Encryption, for entire or parts of the app.
    4.  Privacy focusedJoplin is considered a privacy friendly alternative.
    5.  Web ClipperSave any page or content from the web with a single click with Joplin.
    6.  Works OfflineJoplin can be used without the need to connect to the internet.
    7.  Ad-freeJoplin doesn't contain any form of external advertising.
    8.  Hierarchical StructureOrganize your notes, pages, documents, etc., hierarchically with Joplin.
    9.  LightweightJoplin consumes less device resources compared to similar apps.
    Desktop and mobile apps
    Top 3 alternatives
  4. Notion icon

    Notion

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    • Software as a Service (SaaS)
    425 alternatives to Notion 

    With so many tools, it's hard to keep everyone on the same page. Notion is a new tool that unifies them all.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Support for MarkDownNotion supports MarkDown for document formatting.
    2.  Kanban BoardNotion allows you to organize your workflow by moving cards with drag-and-drop functionality between multiple columns.
    3.  Real time collaborationMultiple users can work together in Notion simultaneously.
    4.  Hierarchical StructureOrganize your notes, pages, documents, etc., hierarchically with Notion.
    5.  Support for LaTeXNotion supports LaTeX for text and math equation formatting.
    6.  Web ClipperSave any page or content from the web with a single click with Notion.
    7.  Support for @mentionsNotion supports the use of mentions through @ to a particular user, who will be notified personally.
    8.  Syntax HighlightingNotion supports syntax highlighting for various programming and markup languages.
    Screenshot
    Top 3 alternatives
  5. Standard Notes icon

    Standard Notes

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Chrome OS
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    • Self-Hosted
    • F-Droid
    463 alternatives to Standard Notes 

    Standard Notes is a simple and private notes app. It allows you to write and sync your notes across all your devices, iOS, Android, Linux, Windows, MacOS, and web browser.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  End-to-End EncryptionStandard Notes has E2E Encryption, for entire or parts of the app.
    2.  Privacy focusedStandard Notes is considered a privacy friendly alternative.
    3.  Cloud SyncSync your data (notes, documents, bookmarks, etc.) across your different devices and to the cloud.
    4.  Support for MarkDownStandard Notes supports MarkDown for document formatting.
    5.  Extensible by Plugins/ExtensionsStandard Notes can be extended with add-ons, plugins and extensions.
    6.  Works OfflineStandard Notes can be used without the need to connect to the internet.
    7.  Encrypted BackupStandard Notes uses encryption algorithms to keep your files safe as well as prevent unauthorized access.
    8.  File VersioningStandard Notes has a version system that lets you view and go back to older versions of the project/file/document.
    9.  Ad-freeStandard Notes doesn't contain any form of external advertising.
    Free version.
    Top 3 alternatives
  6. Google Keep icon

    Google Keep

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Chrome OS
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    • Google Chrome
    • Android Wear
    326 alternatives to Google Keep 

    Google Keep has several features including color coding notes, inserting images, creating lists, geo-fencing, shareable notes, and search by color.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Works OfflineGoogle Keep can be used without the need to connect to the internet.
    2.  Handwritten NotesGoogle Keep supports writing by hand (or a stylus) and your text will be converted to text.
    3.  Dark ModeGoogle Keep supports dark mode for comfortable usage in low light conditions.
    4.  Cloud SyncSync your data (notes, documents, bookmarks, etc.) across your different devices and to the cloud.
    5.  RemindersGoogle Keep allows you to set reminders for tasks, events or actions, based on parameters of time, place or condition.
    6.  Sync with Google CalendarGoogle Keep can be synchronized with Google Calendar
    7.  Real time collaborationMultiple users can work together in Google Keep simultaneously.
    Screenshot
    Top 3 alternatives
  8. Microsoft OneNote icon

    Microsoft OneNote

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Chrome OS
    • Windows S
    • Windows Phone
    • iPad
    • Apple Watch
    • Android Wear
    • Kindle Fire
    468 alternatives to Microsoft OneNote 

    Microsoft OneNote, part of the Microsoft Office Suite, is a digital notebook application that gives people one place to gather notes and information. It also offers shared notebooks, syncing between multiple computers and devices via Windows...

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Handwritten NotesMicrosoft OneNote supports writing by hand (or a stylus) and your text will be converted to text.
    2.  Web ClipperSave any page or content from the web with a single click with Microsoft OneNote.
    3.  Hierarchical StructureOrganize your notes, pages, documents, etc., hierarchically with Microsoft OneNote.
    4.  Works OfflineMicrosoft OneNote can be used without the need to connect to the internet.
    5.  Cloud SyncSync your data (notes, documents, bookmarks, etc.) across your different devices and to the cloud.
    6.  Pressure SensitivityMicrosoft OneNote can change attributes like thickness or opacity, based on how much force you apply to your stylus/finger.
    7.  Dark ModeMicrosoft OneNote supports dark mode for comfortable usage in low light conditions.
    8.  SubtasksMicrosoft OneNote allows you to create and manage tasks inside of a parent-main task.
    9.  WYSIWYG SupportMicrosoft OneNote integrates a WYSIWYG editor to edit the look and content of a document, page, or file.
    Screenshot
    Top 3 alternatives
  9. Evernote icon

    Evernote

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Blackberry
    • Android Tablet
    • Windows Phone
    • iPad
    • Apple Watch
    • Android Wear
    • Kindle Fire
    544 alternatives to Evernote 

    Evernote is a cross-platform, freemium app designed for note taking, organizing, and archiving.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Cloud SyncSync your data (notes, documents, bookmarks, etc.) across your different devices and to the cloud.
    2.  Works OfflineEvernote can be used without the need to connect to the internet.
    3.  Support for MarkDownEvernote supports MarkDown for document formatting.
    4.  OCRExtract the text from a screen capture or file and paste it into another document for edits.
    5.  Dark ModeEvernote supports dark mode for comfortable usage in low light conditions.
    6.  Calendar IntegrationEvernote lets you sync your tasks and events with your calendar application.
    7.  Recurring TasksEvernote supports scheduling a task to recur at any frequency, such as daily or weekly.
    8.  PDF annotationEvernote support PDF Annotation for highlighting, notes etc
    9.  Web ClipperSave any page or content from the web with a single click with Evernote.
    Screenshot
    Top 3 alternatives
  10. Typora icon

    Typora

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Electron / Atom Shell
    133 alternatives to Typora 

    Typora gives you a seamless experience as both a reader and a writer. It removes the preview window, mode switcher, syntax symbols of markdown source code, and all other unnecessary distractions. Instead, it provides a real live preview feature to help you concentrate on the...

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Support for MarkDownTypora supports MarkDown for document formatting.
    2.  Live PreviewInstantly see what your files and documents look like as you create them.
    3.  Distraction-freeTypora has a distraction-free mode for when you need to focus.
    4.  WYSIWYG SupportTypora integrates a WYSIWYG editor to edit the look and content of a document, page, or file.
    5.  Support for LaTeXTypora supports LaTeX for text and math equation formatting.
    6.  Support for ThemesYou can use themes and templates to change the look and feel of Typora.
    7.  LightweightTypora consumes less device resources compared to similar apps.
    8.  Code FormattingTypora supports code formatting for multiple languages and code styles.
    9.  Spell CheckingTypora can detect and correct all types of grammar and spelling mistakes.
    Screenshot
    Top 3 alternatives
  11. CopyQ icon

    CopyQ

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • PortableApps.com
    95 alternatives to CopyQ 

    Multi-Platform Clipboard Manager with Advanced Features.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Support for ThemesYou can use themes and templates to change the look and feel of CopyQ.
    2.  LightweightCopyQ consumes less device resources compared to similar apps.
    3.  PortableCopyQ can be used from a USB stick or similar with no prior installation.
    4.  Support for scriptingCopyQ supports scripts and macros to automate or customize tasks.
    Shows a list of previously copied text or images.
    Top 3 alternatives
  12. Simplenote icon

    Simplenote

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    • Kindle Fire
    397 alternatives to Simplenote 

    Made by the company behind WordPress, Simplenote enables users to take notes, lists, and ideas. These notes are stored on the cloud and are accessible across multiple devices.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Cloud SyncSync your data (notes, documents, bookmarks, etc.) across your different devices and to the cloud.
    2.  Support for MarkDownSimplenote supports MarkDown for document formatting.
    3.  Full-Text SearchSimplenote lets you search for specific words or phrases from inside a document or database.
    4.  File VersioningSimplenote has a version system that lets you view and go back to older versions of the project/file/document.
    Screenshot
    Top 3 alternatives

  13. Zettlr is a supercharged markdown editor that combines many writing editor features and collect them in one application. It aims at speeding up your workflow and help you write without any interruptions.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Support for MarkDownZettlr supports MarkDown for document formatting.
    2.  File TaggingZettlr can organize and highlight your files with tags and labels.
    3.  Live PreviewInstantly see what your files and documents look like as you create them.
    4.  Dark ModeZettlr supports dark mode for comfortable usage in low light conditions.
    5.  LightweightZettlr consumes less device resources compared to similar apps.
    6.  Pomodoro TimerPractice the Pomodoro Technique in Zettlr to stay focused and productive.
    7.  Cloud SyncSync your data (notes, documents, bookmarks, etc.) across your different devices and to the cloud.
    The Berlin Theme (dark mode)
    Top 3 alternatives
  14. Xournal++ icon

    Xournal++

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Online
    • Android
    • Chrome OS
    • Android Tablet
    • Self-Hosted
    33 alternatives to Xournal++ 

    Xournal++ (a fork of Xournal) is a handwriting Notetaking software with PDF annotation support. Written in C++ with plattform independent GTK, supporting Linux, e.g. Ubuntu, Debian, Arch, Suse, macOS and Windows 10. Supports Pen input like Wacom Tablets.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Handwritten NotesXournal++ supports writing by hand (or a stylus) and your text will be converted to text.
    2.  PDF annotationXournal++ support PDF Annotation for highlighting, notes etc
    3.  Works OfflineXournal++ can be used without the need to connect to the internet.
    4.  Pressure SensitivityXournal++ can change attributes like thickness or opacity, based on how much force you apply to your stylus/finger.
    5.  Support for LaTeXXournal++ supports LaTeX for text and math equation formatting.
    6.  Ad-freeXournal++ doesn't contain any form of external advertising.
    7.  PortableXournal++ can be used from a USB stick or similar with no prior installation.
    Screenshot
    Top 3 alternatives

  15. This is a ToDo List / Time Tracker / Personal Jira Task Manager for Linux, MacOS and Windows to make you work super productively.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Task Time TrackingKeep a record of time spent on a task with Super Productivity.
    2.  Pomodoro TimerPractice the Pomodoro Technique in Super Productivity to stay focused and productive.
    3.  Works OfflineSuper Productivity can be used without the need to connect to the internet.
    4.  Privacy focusedSuper Productivity is considered a privacy friendly alternative.
    5.  LightweightSuper Productivity consumes less device resources compared to similar apps.
    6.  Dark ModeSuper Productivity supports dark mode for comfortable usage in low light conditions.
    7.  Support for MarkDownSuper Productivity supports MarkDown for document formatting.
    8.  Recurring TasksSuper Productivity supports scheduling a task to recur at any frequency, such as daily or weekly.
    9.  No TrackingSuper Productivity will not track you or use your personal data.
    Screenshot
    Top 3 alternatives
  16. Logseq icon

    Logseq

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • iPad
    • Self-Hosted
    80 alternatives to Logseq 

    Logseq is a platform for knowledge sharing and management. It focuses on privacy, longevity, and user control. Notice: the backend code will be open-sourced as soon as we’re sure that the backend service meets the security standards.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Support for MarkDownLogseq supports MarkDown for document formatting.
    2.  Works OfflineLogseq can be used without the need to connect to the internet.
    3.  Dark ModeLogseq supports dark mode for comfortable usage in low light conditions.
    Screenshot
    Top 3 alternatives
  17. CherryTree icon

    CherryTree

    • Windows
    • Linux
    • PortableApps.com
    • Mac
    494 alternatives to CherryTree 

    A hierarchical note taking application, featuring rich text and syntax highlighting, storing data in a single xml or sqlite file.

     Suggest and vote on features
    Features
    1.  Hierarchical StructureOrganize your notes, pages, documents, etc., hierarchically with CherryTree.
    2.  Syntax HighlightingCherryTree supports syntax highlighting for various programming and markup languages.
    3.  Support for MarkDownCherryTree supports MarkDown for document formatting.
    4.  Code FormattingCherryTree supports code formatting for multiple languages and code styles.
    5.  PortableCherryTree can be used from a USB stick or similar with no prior installation.
    Screenshot
    Top 3 alternatives
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