Microsoft OneNote vs Bear: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Microsoft OneNote and Bear 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:
Microsoft OneNote
Digital notebook for organizing everything
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need productivity features specifically
- • Free digital notebook from Microsoft
- • Great for visual and handwritten notes
Bear
Beautiful markdown notes app for Apple devices
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need note-taking features specifically
- • Beautiful Markdown notes app for Apple devices with tag-based organization.
- • Features focus mode, nested tags, WikiLinks, and Apple Pencil sketching support.
| At a Glance |  Bear | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Productivity | Note-Taking |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Microsoft OneNote | Bear |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | ProductivityNote-Taking | Note-TakingWriting Apps |
Understanding the Differences
Both Microsoft OneNote and Bear solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Microsoft OneNote positions itself as "digital notebook for organizing everything" while Bearfocuses on "beautiful markdown notes app for apple devices". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Microsoft OneNote
Microsoft OneNote makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution.
When to Choose Bear
Bear is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool. Scoring 86/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Microsoft OneNote lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Microsoft OneNote
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Bear is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Bear
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Bear
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? Microsoft OneNote is completely free.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Bear higher (86/100). But the community has upvoted Bear more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Bear Does Better
- Higher overall score (86/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Microsoft OneNote If
- You need a completely free solution
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Bear (86/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Bear scores higher in our analysis, but Microsoft OneNote might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Microsoft OneNote or Bear better?
Based on our analysis, Bear scores higher with 86/100. Microsoft OneNote isfree while Bear is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Microsoft OneNote to Bear easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Microsoft OneNote and Bear offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Microsoft OneNote is completely free.Bear is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.