Simplenote vs Joplin: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Simplenote and Joplin 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.
Bottom line: Joplin is our overall pick for note-taking workflows. Pick Simplenote if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Simplenote
The simplest way to keep notes, synced across all your devices.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Syncs notes across all devices automatically and in real-time.
- • Offers a simple, distraction-free interface for note-taking.
Joplin
Capture your thoughts and securely access them from any device with this open-source note-taking app.
Best for you if:
- • Open-source note-taking app with multimedia support.
- • Features end-to-end encryption and flexible sync options.
| At a Glance |  Simplenote |  Joplin |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | 2.99$ /month/moBasic |
Best For | Note-Taking | Note-Taking |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Simplenote or Joplin?
Choose Simplenote if
The simplest way to keep notes, synced across all your devices.
- Completely free to use, including apps, backups, and syncing
- Available on a wide range of platforms (iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, Web)
- Simple and intuitive interface, promoting a distraction-free experience
- You want a fully free tool (Joplin requires payment)
Choose Joplin if
Capture your thoughts and securely access them from any device with this open-source note-taking app.
- Open-source and ensures data ownership in an open format.
- Strong emphasis on privacy with End-To-End Encryption (E2EE).
- Highly customizable with plugins, themes, and API.
| Feature | Simplenote | Joplin |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.2/5 54 reviews | ★4.3/5 67 reviews |
| Categories | Note-TakingProductivity | Note-TakingProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
Simplenote
The simplest way to keep notes, synced across all your devices.
Strengths
- +Completely free to use, including apps, backups, and syncing
- +Available on a wide range of platforms (iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, Web)
- +Simple and intuitive interface, promoting a distraction-free experience
- +Instant synchronization ensures notes are always up-to-date everywhere
- +Robust version history allows recovery of past note states
Weaknesses
- -Lacks advanced formatting options beyond Markdown
- -May be too simplistic for users requiring rich text editing or complex organization features
- -No explicit mention of offline access capabilities, though implied by local apps
Key features
Joplin
Capture your thoughts and securely access them from any device with this open-source note-taking app.
Strengths
- +Open-source and ensures data ownership in an open format.
- +Strong emphasis on privacy with End-To-End Encryption (E2EE).
- +Highly customizable with plugins, themes, and API.
- +Available across a wide range of platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Terminal).
- +Supports multimedia content and web clipping for comprehensive note-taking.
Weaknesses
- -E2EE setup requires manual enabling on each device.
- -Initial E2EE sync can be time-consuming for large note collections.
- -Advanced collaboration and sharing features are tied to paid Joplin Cloud plans.
Key features
Pricing: Simplenote vs Joplin
| Plan | Simplenote | Joplin |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | 2.99$ /month Basic |
| Tier 2 | N/A | 5.99$ /month Pro |
| Tier 3 | N/A | 7.99$ /month (*) Teams |
| Tier 4 | N/A | Contact us Joplin Server Business |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Simplenote pricing and Joplin pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Simplenote is free. Joplin is paid.
Go with: Simplenote
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Simplenote
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Joplin
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Simplenote is free. Joplin is paid. Go with Simplenote if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are note-taking tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Joplin
- Higher user rating: 4.3/5 vs 4.2/5
- Larger review base (67 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Simplenote
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Joplin is our pick. That said, Simplenote is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Simplenote or Joplin better?
Joplin is rated in our evaluation. Simplenote is free and Joplin is paid.
What are Simplenote and Joplin used for?
Simplenote: The simplest way to keep notes, synced across all your devices.. Joplin: Capture your thoughts and securely access them from any device with this open-source note-taking app..
What does Simplenote cost vs Joplin?
Simplenote is completely free. Joplin is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.