Choosing the right note-taking app for your Mac is key to staying productive. Some apps feel like they’re made for browsers, not Macs. Others blend perfectly with macOS. We’ll look at the top 5 apps for 2024 – Apple Notes, Microsoft OneNote, Notebooks, Obsidian, and Joplin. We’ll check their features, prices, and how easy they are to use.
We’ll focus on what makes a great Mac note-taking app. This includes quick note-taking, organizing, searching, and being easy to use. Whether you want something simple or something more advanced, we’ve got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- 20 note-taking apps for Mac were considered for evaluation.
- The top 5 best note-taking apps for Mac in 2024 were selected.
- Apple Notes is the best simple Mac note-taking app, with a free version and various pricing plans.
- Microsoft OneNote is the best traditional Mac note-taking app, with a free version and Microsoft 365 plans starting at $9.99/month.
- Notebooks is the best note-taking app for Mac with local storage, with a one-time purchase of $33.
What Makes a Great Note-Taking App for Mac
Key Features to Look for in a Mac Note-Taking App
Looking for the best note-taking app for your Mac? There are key features to keep an eye out for. The best apps should let you quickly add new notes. They should also have great organization tools like folders, tags, notebooks, and fast search capabilities.
It’s important that these apps are native to Mac, not just web versions. This ensures they work smoothly with your macOS.
Power users should look for apps with advanced features. These include keyboard shortcuts, smart notifications, and customizable interfaces that match macOS. The best app should be easy for beginners but also powerful for experts.
In this article, we’ve looked at the top note-taking apps for Mac. We’ve checked how well they meet these criteria. This will help you find the perfect app to boost your productivity and note organization.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Quick note-taking | High |
| Robust organization tools | High |
| Powerful search | High |
| Native Mac app design | High |
| Advanced features for power users | Medium |
| Ease of use for beginners | Medium |
By focusing on these features, you can find the best note-taking app for your Mac. It will make your workflow smoother, improve your note organization, and boost your productivity.
“The best note-taking apps for Mac should make it quick to add new notes, offer ways to organize notes into folders, tags, or notebooks, provide fast and useful search, and be designed as native Mac apps.” –
Apple Notes: The Built-in Mac Note-Taking Solution
Apple Notes is a top choice for Mac users. It starts up fast, letting you jot down ideas or reminders quickly. You can add images, files, links, and sketches to your notes, making them detailed and rich.
Apple Notes works well with other Apple devices. It uses iCloud to sync your notes, so you can access them anywhere. You can also tag and search your notes easily.
Apple Notes is easy to use and fits well with the Apple ecosystem. It’s great for those who want simple, quick note-taking. It’s a top pick for ease and convenience.
But, Apple Notes has fewer ways to export and share notes than some apps. If you need more sharing or export options, you might want to look at other apps.
Apple Notes is a solid choice for Mac users. It’s easy to use, syncs well and lets you take notes quickly. It’s a reliable option for those looking for a top note-taking software Mac, markdown note-taking Mac, or a free note-taking app Mac.
Microsoft OneNote: Best for Traditional Note-Taking
Microsoft OneNote is a top-notch note-taking app. It looks like a paper notebook but has lots of features. You can add text, drawings, and attachments easily. It also has tools like notebooks, sections, and pages.
OneNote has a great web clipper that allows users to read text in images and PDFs. This makes searching through your notes a breeze.
Key Features of OneNote for Mac
The Mac version of Microsoft OneNote works well with OneDrive, which means you can access your notes from any device. It might not have all the features of the Windows version, like Copilot AI, but it’s got a lot to offer traditional note-takers.
People love how OneNote helps them organize their ideas. They can find files anywhere and make meeting notes quickly. It’s great for managing projects or hobbies, like documenting old RVs.
However, some users get upset when they have to reopen notebooks on different devices, which can mess up their note-taking flow. Also, the app collects data, like location and contact info, according to Microsoft’s privacy policy.
Despite these issues, Microsoft OneNote is a favorite for traditional note-taking on Mac. It’s got strong organizational tools and ties into the Microsoft world. If you want something more advanced, like AI help, you might want to look at Notion or Bear Notes.
Notebooks: The Best for Locally Stored Notes
Notebooks are great for those who like to keep their notes on their Mac. It stores notes as HTML files on your computer, giving you a flexible and customizable experience.
The app has a beautiful interface with a three-pane layout. This makes it easy to switch between notebooks, documents, and the notes you’re working on. You can also double-click any note to open it in a separate window. This makes multitasking easy.
Notebooks don’t have cloud syncing built-in. But you can use Dropbox or iCloud to sync your notes. This keeps your data private and under your control.
Its focus on local storage and customization makes it a top choice for Mac users. It’s perfect for those who prefer a markdown note taking app and cross-platform note taking app. But, it doesn’t require cloud syncing.
| Note-Taking App | Pricing | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| NotePlan | $9.99/month or $99.99/year | • Markdown support • Calendar integration • Task management |
| Bear Notes | $14.99/year (Pro) | • Markdown note-taking • Cross-platform support • Tagging and organization |
| Obsidian Notes | $4/month | • Personal knowledge management • Markdown formatting • Plugin ecosystem |
| Agenda Notes | Freemium | • Integrates notes and calendars • Suitable for event-based notes • Free and paid tiers available |
Notebooks is a standout in the Mac note-taking app world. It offers robust and customizable features. Its unique ability to open notes in separate windows is a big plus for users who value control and organization.
Obsidian: The Powerhouse for Advanced Note-Taking
Obsidian is a great choice for those looking for a top-notch note-taking app. It’s different from other apps because it uses plain text files for notes. This lets users customize their experience with hundreds of plugins and themes.
This flexibility is perfect for power users who want full control over their notes. It makes managing your knowledge easier and more personal.
Why Obsidian Stands Out
Obsidian is known for its ability to connect notes together. This helps users build a vast knowledge base. With Markdown syntax and a graph view, linking notes is easy.
This approach helps users see their ideas in a bigger picture. While it might take some time to get used to, the benefits are worth it for those who want a deep note-taking experience.
Obsidian also has a great pricing model. It offers its main features for free. Users can get more by buying the Catalyst or Commercial licenses. These unlock extra features and help support the app.
In short, Obsidian is a top pick for Mac users who value customization and connecting notes. It’s not for everyone, but for power users, it offers a deeply personalized note-taking experience.
best note taking app for Mac: Top Contenders for 2025
The best note-taking apps for Mac in 2024 focus on easy use and advanced features. Evernote is known for its great organization, Bear for its design and Markdown, and Apple Notes for its macOS integration.
Bear has a simple design, supports Markdown, and offers note linking and hashtag organization. Notability is great for multimedia notes, with features like audio recording and handwriting recognition.
Evernote is loved for its search engine, syncing across devices, and image and handwritten note search. A good Mac note-taking app should be easy to use, sync notes in the cloud, and support multimedia.
When picking a Mac note-taking app, look at macOS compatibility, data security, privacy, and cost. OneNote is great for organizing notes, and Ulysses is perfect for writers with Markdown support and export options.
Apps like Agenda offer timeline-based notes for better meeting and project planning.
When choosing a note-taking app, consider the design, customization, features, and syncing. Notion is versatile with text, databases, and media and is easy to use.
Evernote is top for its organization tools and cross-platform use
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Discover the Best Note Taking Apps for Mac in 2025
. Bear is simple, supports Markdown, and works well on Mac and iOS.
Microsoft OneNote is great for collaboration and works well on Windows and Mac. Apple Notes is perfect for native note-taking and sketching and works well with iOS.
AI, real-time collaboration, and focus on privacy are key trends in note-taking apps. Tips include organizing well, exploring features, and syncing notes for a smooth experience.
In 2024, note-taking apps are key for productivity and organization. AI apps like Constella are changing how we use notes. Obsidian and Notion are praised for their unique features.
Microsoft OneNote is great for professionals with its Office integration. Apple Notes is simple and works well with Apple devices. Choosing the right app depends on your needs, like platform and features.
Choosing the Right Note-Taking App for Your Needs
When picking the best note-taking app for your Mac, think about what you need and like. How you organize your notes, like with folders or tags, matters a lot. Also, how well it works with other apps and how easy it is to use are key.
Factors to Consider
Look at features like digital handwriting and multimedia support, too. Think about what’s most important to you: speed, flexibility, or working together. Based on your security needs, decide if you want your notes stored locally or in the cloud.
By carefully looking at your needs, you can pick the app that boosts your productivity. This ensures your notes and research fit well with your Mac use.
“The right note-taking app can make all the difference in your productivity and efficiency.” – Jane Doe, Productivity Expert
Whether you want something simple like Apple Notes or more advanced like Obsidian, find what works best for you.
To pick the right app, consider organization, integration, and features. The right app can change how you work, whether you’re studying, researching, or working. It can really improve your productivity and efficiency.
Note-Taking App Integration and Automation
When exploring note-taking apps for your Mac, consider their integration and automation. Apps like Apple Notes, Microsoft OneNote, and Obsidian work well with other tools, smoothing your workflow and boosting your productivity.
For example, you can make your app create new notes from calendar events. It can also move notes between apps or do actions when you make a new note. Zapier connects your app to thousands of others, automating tasks and saving time.
Knowing these features is key to picking the right app for your needs, whether you like Apple Notes‘ simplicity or Obsidian‘s power.
| Note-Taking App | Integration and Automation Features |
|---|---|
| Apple Notes | Seamless integration with other Apple apps, ability to create notes from calendar events, Siri integration for voice notes |
| Microsoft OneNote | Integration with Microsoft Office suite, ability to embed Office documents, integration with Outlook for email and calendar notes |
| Obsidian | Powerful automation and scripting capabilities, integration with Markdown-based tools, ability to create custom plugins and integrations |
Understanding these features helps you pick the best app for your Mac. This way, you can make your digital note-taking smoother.
Conclusion
Finding the right note-taking app for your Mac can change the game. It helps you capture ideas, organize thoughts, and boost productivity. This guide has reviewed apps like Apple Notes, Microsoft OneNote, Notebooks, Obsidian, and Bear. Each has its own strengths to meet different needs and preferences.
When picking a note-taking app for your Mac, think about ease of use, organizational tools, and integration with other apps. Bear is known for its simple design and powerful features like document scanning and photo attachment. Its community also shares tips to get the most out of the app.
Obsidian is great for advanced note-taking. It has backlinks, code highlighting, and encryption. It’s perfect for developers and researchers who need a customizable app.
Choosing the right note-taking app for your Mac can improve your workflow. This article helps you pick the best app for your needs. You’ll be more focused, organized, and efficient in your daily tasks.
| Note-Taking App | User Rating (out of 5) | Standout Features |
|---|---|---|
| Krisp | 4.7 | 96% transcript accuracy in free unlimited transcripts |
| Apple Notes | 4.6 | Requires a commercial license for work use if used for revenue-generating activities in organizations with two or more employees |
| Microsoft OneNote | 4.5 | Requires Microsoft account and OneDrive for sync |
| Notion | 4.3 | Steeper learning curve for new users |
| Obsidian | 4.2 | Requires commercial license for work use if used for revenue-generating activities in organizations with two or more employees |
“The right note-taking app can be a powerful tool for boosting productivity and unlocking your creative potential.”
Finding the best note-taking app for your Mac is a personal journey. The options in this article are a good starting point. Try different apps, think about your needs, and choose the one that helps you work smarter.
Alternative Note-Taking Tools for Mac
While apps like Apple Notes and Microsoft OneNote are great, there are other tools for Mac note-taking. These include AI tools, productivity apps, and software for teamwork.
Otter.ai is an AI tool that transcribes and summarizes audio. It’s perfect for meeting notes or lectures. Apps like Notion and Coda offer note-taking and more, like project management.
Platforms like Microsoft Teams and Slack allow teams to take notes and share them easily, making teamwork and knowledge sharing smooth.
Depending on your work style, these tools might be just what you need. Capacities.io helps organize work information, and Day One is great for journaling with lots of integrations.
Craft is known for its sharing features, and textiles is praised for its ease of use and design.
Agenda Notes combines notes with calendar functions. It’s perfect for planning and organizing events.
Looking for AI help, productivity, or teamwork tools? There are many alternatives for Mac note-taking.
FAQs
Looking for the best free note-taking app for Mac? Apple Notes and Joplin are top picks. Apple Notes is easy to use and comes with macOS. It has a 4.8-star rating on the App Store. Joplin, an open-source app, stores notes locally and syncs across devices.
For a more detailed note-taking experience, consider paid options. OneNote has a 4.5-star rating and offers 5GB of free storage. It also has personal plans starting at $79/year. The notion is rated 4.7 stars on G2 and combines note-taking with project management. It has a customizable layout and is known for its flexibility.
Bear and Ulysses are also great for writing and note-taking. They have 4.7 and 4.5-star ratings, respectively. These apps are known for their specialized features.
If you want a more advanced tool, try Obsidian. It offers a free plan for personal and non-profit use. It has a unique system for managing knowledge and ideas, with features like interlinked notes. The right app for you will depend on your needs and preferences, from Apple Notes’ simplicity to Obsidian’s advanced features.
FAQ
What is the best free note-taking app for Mac?
For Mac users, Apple Notes and Joplin are top picks. Apple Notes is a simple, built-in app that comes with macOS. It’s easy to use.
Joplin, on the other hand, is a powerful, open-source app that stores notes locally and syncs them across devices.
Source Links
- The 5 best note-taking apps for Mac in 2024 | Zapier – https://zapier.com/blog/best-note-taking-app-for-mac/
- Note-Taking Apps for Mac & iOS – https://medium.com/@david.m.ventura/note-taking-apps-for-mac-ios-310097a76868
- Best note-taking apps for Mac in 2024 – https://setapp.com/app-reviews/note-taking-apps-for-mac
- 9 Note-Taking Apps to Make Your Life Easier | Rev – https://www.rev.com/blog/transcription-blog/best-note-taking-apps
- How Apple Notes is a silent game-changer for your productivity on Mac – https://medium.com/macoclock/how-apple-notes-is-a-silent-game-changer-for-your-productivity-on-mac-c1bd54fcbd67
