Kuku vs Ulysses: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Kuku and Ulysses 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:
Kuku
AI-native Markdown editor for macOS
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • AI-native Markdown editor for macOS with local-first file storage
- • Gemini AI agent searches your vault and suggests edits as diffs
Ulysses
The ultimate writing app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone, combining powerful features with a focused writing experience.
Best for you if:
- • Distraction-free writing environment with powerful project management.
- • Built-in grammar and style checker for over 20 languages.
| At a Glance |  Kuku |  Ulysses |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | $5.99/monthSubscription |
Best For | Writing Apps | Writing Apps |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Kuku or Ulysses?
Choose Kuku if
AI-native Markdown editor for macOS
- No vendor lock-in, files are plain .md on your disk
- AI agent can search, read, and create documents in your vault
- Extremely lightweight (~15MB bundle, ~80MB memory)
- You want a fully free tool (Ulysses requires payment)
Choose Ulysses if
The ultimate writing app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone, combining powerful features with a focused writing experience.
- Great for writers
- Clean writing environment
- Good publishing features
| Feature | Kuku | Ulysses |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.7/5 12 reviews |
| Categories | Writing AppsAI Assistants | Writing AppsProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
Kuku
AI-native Markdown editor for macOS
Strengths
- +No vendor lock-in, files are plain .md on your disk
- +AI agent can search, read, and create documents in your vault
- +Extremely lightweight (~15MB bundle, ~80MB memory)
- +Offline speech-to-text with no cloud dependency
Weaknesses
- -macOS only, no Windows or Linux version
- -AI features depend on Gemini API key
- -Young project with limited community and plugins
- -No mobile companion app
Key features
Ulysses
The ultimate writing app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone, combining powerful features with a focused writing experience.
Strengths
- +Great for writers
- +Clean writing environment
- +Good publishing features
- +Apple native
- +Markdown support
Weaknesses
- -Apple only
- -Subscription model
- -Expensive
- -No collaboration
- -Overkill for notes
Key features
Pricing: Kuku vs Ulysses
| Plan | Kuku | Ulysses |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | $5.99 month Subscription |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $49.99 year Annual |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Kuku pricing and Ulysses pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Kuku is free. Ulysses is paid.
Go with: Kuku
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Kuku
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Ulysses
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Kuku is free. Ulysses is paid. Go with Kuku if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are writing apps tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Ulysses
- Our pick for this comparison
Kuku
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Ulysses is our pick. That said, Kuku is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kuku or Ulysses better?
Ulysses is rated in our evaluation. Kuku is free and Ulysses is paid.
What are Kuku and Ulysses used for?
Kuku: AI-native Markdown editor for macOS. Ulysses: The ultimate writing app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone, combining powerful features with a focused writing experience..
What does Kuku cost vs Ulysses?
Kuku is completely free. Ulysses is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.