Novlr vs Ulysses: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Novlr 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:
Novlr
The creative writing workspace designed with your writing goals in mind, built by writers for writers.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need writing & content features specifically
- • A distraction-free online workspace for creative writers.
- • Offers tools for project organization, goal tracking, and version control.
Ulysses
The ultimate writing app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone, combining powerful features with a focused writing experience.
Best for you if:
- • You need writing apps features specifically
- • Distraction-free writing environment with powerful project management.
- • Built-in grammar and style checker for over 20 languages.
| At a Glance |  Novlr |  Ulysses |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $5.99/monthSubscription |
Best For | Writing & Content | Writing Apps |
Rating | - | 4.7/5 |
Choose Novlr or Ulysses?
Choose Novlr if
The creative writing workspace designed with your writing goals in mind, built by writers for writers.
- Designed specifically for creative writers by writers.
- Offers a free tier with essential writing features.
- Comprehensive suite of tools from drafting to publishing and community support.
- Your work is writing & content-shaped, not writing apps-shaped
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
- Your work is writing apps-shaped, not writing & content-shaped
| Feature | Novlr | Ulysses |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.7/5 12 reviews |
| Categories | Writing & ContentProductivity | Writing AppsProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
Novlr
The creative writing workspace designed with your writing goals in mind, built by writers for writers.
Strengths
- +Designed specifically for creative writers by writers.
- +Offers a free tier with essential writing features.
- +Comprehensive suite of tools from drafting to publishing and community support.
- +Seamless online syncing across devices.
- +Integrates advanced proofreading and grammar checks with ProWritingAid.
Weaknesses
- -Advanced features like unlimited version history and ProWritingAid integration are only available in paid plans.
- -Custom domain for author websites is a Pro-tier feature.
- -Some features like growing a mailing list are listed as 'Coming Soon'.
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: Novlr vs Ulysses
| Plan | Novlr | Ulysses |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Starter | $5.99 month Subscription |
| Tier 2 | $6/month Plus | $49.99 year Annual |
| Tier 3 | $14/month Pro | N/A |
| Tier 4 | $499/lifetime Lifetime Pro | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Novlr pricing and Ulysses pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Novlr has a free tier. Ulysses is paid only.
Go with: Novlr
Want the highest-rated option?
Ulysses is rated 4.7/5. Novlr has no ratings yet.
Go with: Ulysses
Value user reviews?
Novlr: no ratings yet. Ulysses: 12 reviews (4.7/5).
Go with: Ulysses
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Novlr is freemium. Ulysses is paid. Novlr lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Novlr is a writing & content tool. Ulysses is in writing apps. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Ulysses is rated 4.7/5; Novlr has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Ulysses
- Our pick for this comparison
Novlr
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for writing & content
The Bottom Line
Ulysses is our pick. Novlr has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Novlr or Ulysses better?
Ulysses is rated in our evaluation. Novlr is freemium and Ulysses is paid.
What are Novlr and Ulysses used for?
Novlr: The creative writing workspace designed with your writing goals in mind, built by writers for writers.. Ulysses: The ultimate writing app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone, combining powerful features with a focused writing experience..
What does Novlr cost vs Ulysses?
Novlr is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Ulysses is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.