Notesnook vs Apple Notes: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Notesnook and Apple 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: Apple Notes is our overall pick for note-taking workflows. Pick Notesnook 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:
Notesnook
The open-source, zero-knowledge private note-taking app for all your thoughts and ideas.
Best for you if:
- • End-to-end encrypted and zero-knowledge note-taking.
- • Open-source and available across desktop, web, and mobile.
Apple Notes
Free note-taking for Apple users
Best for you if:
- • Cross-device syncing
- • Simple note-taking
| At a Glance |  Notesnook |  Apple Notes |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | 0.99/moiCloud+ 50GB |
Best For | Note-Taking | Note-Taking |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Notesnook or Apple Notes?
Choose Notesnook if
The open-source, zero-knowledge private note-taking app for all your thoughts and ideas.
- Strong emphasis on privacy with end-to-end and at-rest encryption.
- 100% open source, allowing for transparency and self-hosting.
- Available on multiple platforms (desktop, web, mobile) with seamless sync.
Choose Apple Notes if
Free note-taking for Apple users
- Free with Apple devices
- Good for quick notes
- Decent scanning
| Feature | Notesnook | Apple Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.1/5 14 reviews |
| Categories | Note-TakingProductivity | Note-TakingProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
Notesnook
The open-source, zero-knowledge private note-taking app for all your thoughts and ideas.
Strengths
- +Strong emphasis on privacy with end-to-end and at-rest encryption.
- +100% open source, allowing for transparency and self-hosting.
- +Available on multiple platforms (desktop, web, mobile) with seamless sync.
- +Feature-rich for diverse note-taking needs.
- +Community-driven open development.
Weaknesses
- -Free plan has limitations on storage, file size, and feature usage.
- -Some advanced features like full offline mode are only available in the Pro plan.
Key features
Apple Notes
Free note-taking for Apple users
Strengths
- +Free with Apple devices
- +Good for quick notes
- +Decent scanning
- +Collaboration works
- +Fast sync
Weaknesses
- -Apple only
- -Limited organization
- -No Markdown
- -Basic formatting
- -Export options limited
Key features
Pricing: Notesnook vs Apple Notes
| Plan | Notesnook | Apple Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 0/ month Free | 0 Free |
| Tier 2 | N/A | 0.99 iCloud+ 50GB |
| Tier 3 | N/A | 2.99 iCloud+ 200GB |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Notesnook pricing and Apple Notes pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Notesnook
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Notesnook
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Apple Notes
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?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Apple Notes
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Notesnook
- Choose if you want the open-source, zero-knowledge private note-taking app for all your thoughts and ideas
The Bottom Line
Apple Notes is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Notesnook or Apple Notes better?
Apple Notes is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Notesnook and Apple Notes used for?
Notesnook: The open-source, zero-knowledge private note-taking app for all your thoughts and ideas.. Apple Notes: Free note-taking for Apple users.
What does Notesnook cost vs Apple Notes?
Notesnook is completely free. Apple Notes is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.