Standard Notes vs Joplin: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Standard Notes 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 Standard Notes if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Standard Notes
Secure, end-to-end encrypted note-taking with unparalleled privacy and cross-platform syncing.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • End-to-end encrypted note-taking for maximum privacy and security.
- • Cross-platform syncing and offline access for notes and files.
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 |  Standard Notes |  Joplin |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | Custom |
Best For | Note-Taking | Note-Taking |
Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.3/5 |
Choose Standard Notes or Joplin?
Choose Standard Notes if
Secure, end-to-end encrypted note-taking with unparalleled privacy and cross-platform syncing.
- Strong end-to-end encryption ensures high data privacy and security.
- Cross-platform availability with seamless syncing across unlimited devices.
- Offers a free tier with core encryption and syncing features.
- You want a free tier before you commit
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 | Standard Notes | Joplin |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.3/5 27 reviews | ★4.3/5 67 reviews |
| Categories | Note-TakingSecurity | Note-TakingProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
Standard Notes
Secure, end-to-end encrypted note-taking with unparalleled privacy and cross-platform syncing.
Strengths
- +Strong end-to-end encryption ensures high data privacy and security.
- +Cross-platform availability with seamless syncing across unlimited devices.
- +Offers a free tier with core encryption and syncing features.
- +Supports diverse note types, catering to various needs beyond simple text.
- +Open-source and independently audited code builds trust and transparency.
Weaknesses
- -Advanced features like rich text editing, spreadsheets, and file storage are locked behind paid plans.
- -The free version is limited to plain text notes.
- -No specific cons mentioned regarding performance or usability in the provided text.
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: Standard Notes vs Joplin
| Plan | Standard Notes | Joplin |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Standard | 2.99$ /month Basic |
| Tier 2 | $90/ year Productivity | 5.99$ /month Pro |
| Tier 3 | $120/ year Professional | 7.99$ /month (*) Teams |
| Tier 4 | N/A | Contact us Joplin Server Business |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Standard Notes pricing and Joplin pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Standard Notes has a free tier. Joplin is paid only.
Go with: Standard Notes
Want the highest-rated option?
Standard Notes: 4.3/5 (27 reviews). Joplin: 4.3/5 (67 reviews).
Go with: Standard Notes
Value user reviews?
Standard Notes: 27 reviews (4.3/5). Joplin: 67 reviews (4.3/5).
Go with: Joplin
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Standard Notes is freemium. Joplin is paid. Standard Notes lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are note-taking tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Both are rated 4.3/5.
Key Takeaways
Joplin
- Larger review base (67 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Standard Notes
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Joplin is our pick. Standard Notes has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Standard Notes or Joplin better?
Joplin is rated in our evaluation. Standard Notes is freemium and Joplin is paid.
What are Standard Notes and Joplin used for?
Standard Notes: Secure, end-to-end encrypted note-taking with unparalleled privacy and cross-platform syncing.. Joplin: Capture your thoughts and securely access them from any device with this open-source note-taking app..
What does Standard Notes cost vs Joplin?
Standard Notes is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Joplin is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.