Joplin vs Standard Notes: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Joplin and Standard 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.
Bottom line: Joplin is our overall pick for note-taking workflows. Pick Standard Notes if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Joplin
Capture your thoughts and securely access them from any device with this open-source note-taking app.
Best for you if:
- • Open-source note-taking app with multimedia support.
- • Features end-to-end encryption and flexible sync options.
Standard Notes
Secure, end-to-end encrypted note-taking with unparalleled privacy and cross-platform syncing.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • End-to-end encrypted note-taking for maximum privacy and security.
- • Cross-platform syncing and offline access for notes and files.
| At a Glance |  Joplin |  Standard Notes |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Custom | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Note-Taking | Note-Taking |
Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.3/5 |
Choose Joplin or Standard Notes?
Choose Joplin if
Capture your thoughts and securely access them from any device with this open-source note-taking app.
- Open-source and ensures data ownership in an open format.
- Strong emphasis on privacy with End-To-End Encryption (E2EE).
- Highly customizable with plugins, themes, and API.
Choose Standard Notes if
Secure, end-to-end encrypted note-taking with unparalleled privacy and cross-platform syncing.
- Strong end-to-end encryption ensures high data privacy and security.
- Cross-platform availability with seamless syncing across unlimited devices.
- Offers a free tier with core encryption and syncing features.
- You want a free tier before you commit
| Feature | Joplin | Standard Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.3/5 67 reviews | ★4.3/5 27 reviews |
| Categories | Note-TakingProductivity | Note-TakingSecurity |
In-Depth Analysis
Joplin
Capture your thoughts and securely access them from any device with this open-source note-taking app.
Strengths
- +Open-source and ensures data ownership in an open format.
- +Strong emphasis on privacy with End-To-End Encryption (E2EE).
- +Highly customizable with plugins, themes, and API.
- +Available across a wide range of platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Terminal).
- +Supports multimedia content and web clipping for comprehensive note-taking.
Weaknesses
- -E2EE setup requires manual enabling on each device.
- -Initial E2EE sync can be time-consuming for large note collections.
- -Advanced collaboration and sharing features are tied to paid Joplin Cloud plans.
Key features
Standard Notes
Secure, end-to-end encrypted note-taking with unparalleled privacy and cross-platform syncing.
Strengths
- +Strong end-to-end encryption ensures high data privacy and security.
- +Cross-platform availability with seamless syncing across unlimited devices.
- +Offers a free tier with core encryption and syncing features.
- +Supports diverse note types, catering to various needs beyond simple text.
- +Open-source and independently audited code builds trust and transparency.
Weaknesses
- -Advanced features like rich text editing, spreadsheets, and file storage are locked behind paid plans.
- -The free version is limited to plain text notes.
- -No specific cons mentioned regarding performance or usability in the provided text.
Key features
Pricing: Joplin vs Standard Notes
| Plan | Joplin | Standard Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 2.99$ /month Basic | Free Standard |
| Tier 2 | 5.99$ /month Pro | $90/ year Productivity |
| Tier 3 | 7.99$ /month (*) Teams | $120/ year Professional |
| Tier 4 | Contact us Joplin Server Business | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Joplin pricing and Standard Notes pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Standard Notes has a free tier. Joplin is paid only.
Go with: Standard Notes
Want the highest-rated option?
Joplin: 4.3/5 (67 reviews). Standard Notes: 4.3/5 (27 reviews).
Go with: Joplin
Value user reviews?
Joplin: 67 reviews (4.3/5). Standard Notes: 27 reviews (4.3/5).
Go with: Joplin
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Joplin is paid. Standard Notes is freemium. Standard Notes lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are note-taking tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Both are rated 4.3/5.
Key Takeaways
Joplin
- Larger review base (67 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Standard Notes
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Joplin is our pick. Standard Notes has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Joplin or Standard Notes better?
Joplin is rated in our evaluation. Joplin is paid and Standard Notes is freemium.
What are Joplin and Standard Notes used for?
Joplin: Capture your thoughts and securely access them from any device with this open-source note-taking app.. Standard Notes: Secure, end-to-end encrypted note-taking with unparalleled privacy and cross-platform syncing..
What does Joplin cost vs Standard Notes?
Joplin is a paid tool. Standard Notes is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.