Scrivener vs Ulysses: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Scrivener 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:
Scrivener
The ultimate writing studio for long-form projects, combining tools for drafting, research, and organization.
Best for you if:
- • You need writing & content features specifically
- • Organizes long-form writing projects with flexible structuring and outlining tools.
- • Integrates research materials directly alongside your writing for easy access.
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 |  Scrivener |  Ulysses |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $60/moScrivener 3 | $5.99/monthSubscription |
Best For | Writing & Content | Writing Apps |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Scrivener or Ulysses?
Choose Scrivener if
The ultimate writing studio for long-form projects, combining tools for drafting, research, and organization.
- Best for long-form writing
- Great organization
- Research tools
- 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
- Budget matters ($5.99/month vs $60/mo)
- Your work is writing apps-shaped, not writing & content-shaped
| Feature | Scrivener | Ulysses |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 291 reviews | ★4.7/5 12 reviews |
| Categories | Writing & ContentProductivity | Writing AppsProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
Scrivener
The ultimate writing studio for long-form projects, combining tools for drafting, research, and organization.
Strengths
- +Best for long-form writing
- +Great organization
- +Research tools
- +Compile flexibility
- +One-time purchase
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -UI dated
- -Windows version behind Mac
- -No real-time collaboration
- -Sync via Dropbox only
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: Scrivener vs Ulysses
| Plan | Scrivener | Ulysses |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $60 Scrivener 3 | $5.99 month Subscription |
| Tier 2 | Discounted Bundle (Mac + Windows) | $49.99 year Annual |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Scrivener pricing and Ulysses pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Scrivener
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Scrivener
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Scrivener
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Scrivener is a writing & content tool. Ulysses is in writing apps. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Scrivener
- Larger review base (291 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Ulysses
- Higher user rating: 4.7/5 vs 4.5/5
- Better fit for writing apps
The Bottom Line
Scrivener is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scrivener or Ulysses better?
Scrivener is rated in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Scrivener and Ulysses used for?
Scrivener: The ultimate writing studio for long-form projects, combining tools for drafting, research, and organization.. Ulysses: The ultimate writing app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone, combining powerful features with a focused writing experience..
What does Scrivener cost vs Ulysses?
Scrivener is a paid tool. Ulysses is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.