iA Writer vs Bear: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between iA Writer and Bear 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
iA Writer
The benchmark Markdown writing app designed for focused, distraction-free writing.
Best for you if:
- • You need focus & pomodoro features specifically
- • Distraction-free Markdown writing environment with Focus Mode.
- • Advanced editor tools like Syntax Highlight and Style Check for improving writing quality.
Bear
Beautiful markdown notes app for Apple devices
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need note-taking features specifically
- • Beautiful Markdown notes app for Apple devices with tag-based organization.
- • Features focus mode, nested tags, WikiLinks, and Apple Pencil sketching support.
| At a Glance |  iA Writer |  Bear |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Focus & Pomodoro | Note-Taking |
Rating | 80/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | iA Writer | Bear |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Focus & PomodoroWriting Apps | Note-TakingFile Management |
How iA Writer and Bear Compare
iA Writer
The benchmark Markdown writing app designed for focused, distraction-free writing.
Paid · 80/100 score
Bear
Beautiful markdown notes app for Apple devices
Free tier available · 86/100 score
iA Writer is a focus & pomodoro tool. Bear is in note-taking.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Bear has a free tier. iA Writer is paid only.
Go with: Bear
Want the highest-rated option?
iA Writer: 80/100. Bear: 86/100.
Go with: Bear
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Bear
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
iA Writer is paid. Bear is freemium. Bear lets you start free.
What's your use case?
iA Writer is a focus & pomodoro tool. Bear is in note-taking. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Bear scores higher: 86/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Bear
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
iA Writer
- Better fit for focus & pomodoro
The Bottom Line
Bear (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is iA Writer or Bear better?
Bear scores 86/100 in our evaluation. iA Writer is paid and Bear is freemium.
What are iA Writer and Bear used for?
iA Writer: The benchmark Markdown writing app designed for focused, distraction-free writing.. Bear: Beautiful markdown notes app for Apple devices.
What does iA Writer cost vs Bear?
iA Writer is a paid tool. Bear is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.