GoodNotes vs Reflect Notes: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between GoodNotes and Reflect Notes comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
GoodNotes
Capture, organize, and elevate your ideas with AI-powered digital note-taking.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Capture notes using handwriting, typing, drawing, or audio with AI assistance.
- • Collaborate in real-time on digital notebooks, whiteboards, and text documents.
Reflect Notes
Fast, encrypted note-taking app with AI and networked notes
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.1/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Reflect is a note-taking app with networked notes and AI integration
- • It creates a second brain with backlinking and end-to-end encryption
| At a Glance |  GoodNotes | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Note-Taking | Note-Taking |
Rating | —/100 | 81/100 |
| Feature | GoodNotes | Reflect Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 81 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Note-TakingWhiteboard | Note-TakingAI Assistants |
Understanding the Differences
Both GoodNotes and Reflect Notes solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.GoodNotes positions itself as "capture, organize, and elevate your ideas with ai-powered digital note-taking." while Reflect Notesfocuses on "fast, encrypted note-taking app with ai and networked notes". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose GoodNotes
GoodNotes makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose Reflect Notes
Reflect Notes is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool. Scoring 81/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, GoodNotes lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: GoodNotes
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Reflect Notes is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Reflect Notes
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Reflect Notes takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: Reflect Notes
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with GoodNotes, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Reflect Notes higher (81/100). But the community has upvoted Reflect Notes more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Reflect Notes Does Better
- Higher overall score (81/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider GoodNotes If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Reflect Notes (81/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Reflect Notes scores higher in our analysis, but GoodNotes might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GoodNotes or Reflect Notes better?
Based on our analysis, Reflect Notes scores higher with 81/100. GoodNotes isfreemium while Reflect Notes is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from GoodNotes to Reflect Notes easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do GoodNotes and Reflect Notes offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. GoodNotes is freemium with a free tier.Reflect Notes is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.