Scrivener vs Bear: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Scrivener 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.
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:
Scrivener
The ultimate writing studio for long-form projects, combining tools for drafting, research, and organization.
Best for you if:
- • Organizes long-form writing projects with flexible structuring and outlining tools.
- • Integrates research materials directly alongside your writing for easy access.
Bear
Beautiful markdown notes app for Apple devices
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 7.5/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • 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 |  Scrivener |  Bear |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Note-Taking | Note-Taking |
Rating | 75/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Scrivener | Bear |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 75 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Note-TakingFile Management | Note-TakingFile Management |
How Scrivener and Bear Compare
Scrivener
The ultimate writing studio for long-form projects, combining tools for drafting, research, and organization.
Paid · 75/100 score
Bear
Beautiful markdown notes app for Apple devices
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Bear has a free tier. Scrivener is paid only.
Go with: Bear
Want the highest-rated option?
Scrivener: 75/100. Bear: 86/100.
Go with: Bear
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Bear
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Scrivener is paid. Bear is freemium. Bear lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are note-taking tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Bear scores higher: 86/100 vs 75/100.
Key Takeaways
Bear
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 75
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Scrivener
The Bottom Line
Bear (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scrivener or Bear better?
Bear scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Scrivener is paid and Bear is freemium.
What are Scrivener and Bear used for?
Scrivener: The ultimate writing studio for long-form projects, combining tools for drafting, research, and organization.. Bear: Beautiful markdown notes app for Apple devices.
What does Scrivener cost vs Bear?
Scrivener is a paid tool. Bear is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.