Readwise vs Evernote: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Readwise and Evernote 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Readwise
Reading and highlighting app
Best for you if:
- • Readwise is a tool for remembering what you read with spaced repetition
- • It syncs highlights from Kindle, articles, and books for daily review
Evernote
The original note-taking app, still kicking after all these years
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 7.6/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • Classic note-taking app with web clipper, document scanning, and cross-device sync
- • Organizational features include notebooks, tags, and powerful search across all content
| At a Glance |  Readwise |  Evernote |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Note-Taking | Note-Taking |
Rating | 76/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Readwise | Evernote |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 76 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Note-TakingRead Later | Note-TakingFile Management |
How Readwise and Evernote Compare
Readwise
Reading and highlighting app
Paid · 76/100 score
Evernote
The original note-taking app, still kicking after all these years
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Evernote has a free tier. Readwise is paid only.
Go with: Evernote
Want the highest-rated option?
Readwise: 76/100. Evernote: 82/100.
Go with: Evernote
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Evernote
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Readwise is paid. Evernote is freemium. Evernote lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are note-taking tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Evernote scores higher: 82/100 vs 76/100.
Key Takeaways
Evernote
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 76
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Readwise
The Bottom Line
Evernote (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Readwise or Evernote better?
Evernote scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Readwise is paid and Evernote is freemium.
What are Readwise and Evernote used for?
Readwise: Reading and highlighting app. Evernote: The original note-taking app, still kicking after all these years.
What does Readwise cost vs Evernote?
Readwise is a paid tool. Evernote is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.