Things 3 vs Apple Notes: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Things 3 and Apple Notes 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:
Things 3
Award-winning task manager for Apple
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • You need task management features specifically
- • GTD-based task manager for Apple ecosystem with elegant design and keyboard shortcuts.
- • Features projects, areas, tags, and seamless iCloud sync across Mac, iPhone, and iPad.
Apple Notes
Free note-taking for Apple users
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need note-taking features specifically
- • Cross-device syncing
- • Simple note-taking
| At a Glance |  Things 3 | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free |
Best For | Task Management | Note-Taking |
Rating | 90/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Things 3 | Apple Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Task ManagementTime Tracking | Note-TakingTask Management |
Understanding the Differences
Both Things 3 and Apple Notes solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Things 3 positions itself as "award-winning task manager for apple" while Apple Notesfocuses on "free note-taking for apple users". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Things 3
Things 3 makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution. With a score of 90/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Apple Notes
Apple Notes is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Apple Notes won't cost you anything to start, which is exactly what early-stage teams need.
We'd pick: Apple Notes
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Things 3 handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Things 3
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Things 3 is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: Things 3
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Zero budget? Apple Notes won't cost you anything.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Things 3 higher (90/100). But the community has upvoted Apple Notes more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Things 3 Does Better
- Higher overall score (90/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Apple Notes If
- You need a completely free solution
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Things 3 (90/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Things 3 scores higher in our analysis, but Apple Notes might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Things 3 or Apple Notes better?
Based on our analysis, Things 3 scores higher with 90/100. Things 3 ispaid while Apple Notes is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Things 3 to Apple Notes easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Things 3 and Apple Notes offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Things 3 is paid with potential trial.Apple Notes is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.