MinkNote vs Simplenote: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between MinkNote and Simplenote 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: MinkNote wins this matchup. Our overall Note-Taking pick is Notion AI. Our free Note-Taking pick is Fathom. Pick Simplenote if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
MinkNote
Markdown notes for Mac, private and keyboard-first
Best for you if:
- • Stores all notes as plain Markdown files on your Mac, ensuring no lock-in and long-term readability.
- • Keyboard-first navigation and native macOS design for a calm, efficient note-taking experience.
Simplenote
The simplest way to keep notes, synced across all your devices.
Best for you if:
- • Syncs notes across all devices automatically and in real-time.
- • Offers a simple, distraction-free interface for note-taking.
| At a Glance |  MinkNote |  Simplenote |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Note-Taking | Note-Taking |
Rating | - | 4.2/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose MinkNote or Simplenote?
Choose MinkNote if
Markdown notes for Mac, private and keyboard-first
- Fully native macOS app with low resource usage compared to Electron-based alternatives
- No account required and no internet needed for full functionality
- Notes are plain files you own, readable in any editor now and in the future
Choose Simplenote if
The simplest way to keep notes, synced across all your devices.
- Completely free to use, including apps, backups, and syncing
- Available on a wide range of platforms (iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, Web)
- Simple and intuitive interface, promoting a distraction-free experience
| Feature | MinkNote | Simplenote |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.2/5 54 reviews |
| Categories | Note-TakingWriting Apps | Note-TakingProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
MinkNote
Markdown notes for Mac, private and keyboard-first
MinkNote's pricing is generous since it offers a full-featured 14-day free trial with no credit card required, and after the trial the app remains usable in read-only mode at no cost.
Watch out
Read-only after 14 days limits editing
Strengths
- +Fully native macOS app with low resource usage compared to Electron-based alternatives
- +No account required and no internet needed for full functionality
- +Notes are plain files you own, readable in any editor now and in the future
Weaknesses
- -Less mature feature set compared to established apps like Obsidian, with a smaller community and plugin ecosystem
- -Only available for macOS, limiting cross-platform use
Key features
Simplenote
The simplest way to keep notes, synced across all your devices.
Simplenote is free.
Watch out
There is no Simplenote subscription. Do not confuse it with WordPress.com or Notion prices.
Strengths
- +Completely free to use, including apps, backups, and syncing
- +Available on a wide range of platforms (iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, Web)
- +Simple and intuitive interface, promoting a distraction-free experience
- +Instant synchronization ensures notes are always up-to-date everywhere
- +Robust version history allows recovery of past note states
Weaknesses
- -Lacks advanced formatting options beyond Markdown
- -May be too simplistic for users requiring rich text editing or complex organization features
- -No explicit mention of offline access capabilities, though implied by local apps
Key features
Pricing: MinkNote vs Simplenote
| Plan | MinkNote | Simplenote |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free for 14 days Free Trial | Free Simplenote |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on MinkNote pricing and Simplenote pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: MinkNote
Want the highest-rated option?
Simplenote is rated 4.2/5. MinkNote has no ratings yet.
Go with: Simplenote
Value user reviews?
MinkNote: no ratings yet. Simplenote: 54 reviews (4.2/5).
Go with: Simplenote
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are note-taking tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Simplenote is rated 4.2/5; MinkNote has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
MinkNote
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Simplenote
- Choose if you want the simplest way to keep notes, synced across all your devices
The Bottom Line
MinkNote wins this matchup. Our overall Note-Taking pick is Notion AI. Our free Note-Taking pick is Fathom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MinkNote or Simplenote better?
MinkNote is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are MinkNote and Simplenote used for?
MinkNote: Markdown notes for Mac, private and keyboard-first. Simplenote: The simplest way to keep notes, synced across all your devices..
What does MinkNote cost vs Simplenote?
MinkNote is completely free. Simplenote is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.