If you’re paying for a note-taking app, it might be time to stop. These free alternatives aren’t just “good enough” — they’re actually better than many paid options.
1. Apple Notes
If you use an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, Apple Notes is hands-down one of the best free note-taking apps you can get. You can use it for journaling, grocery lists, or quickly jotting down thoughts throughout the day. It’s incredibly versatile — and surprisingly one of Apple’s most underrated tools.
While it once felt clunky and outdated, Apple Notes has significantly improved over the last decade. It’s still missing a few pro-level features, but the app now offers a clean interface, powerful search, and the ability to pin important notes for quick access.
2. Google Keep
If you’re looking for a simple, cross-platform alternative to Apple Notes, Google Keep is a solid choice. From the main screen, you can start typing directly into a box to create a new note instantly. You can then expand and customize it as needed.
Like Apple Notes, you can pin important notes to the top. You can also create checklists, image-based notes, or to-do lists — and customize each note with colorful backgrounds or playful illustrations.
3. Dropbox Paper
If you already use Dropbox to manage your files, Dropbox Paper is an excellent extension. It lets you embed files and folders directly into your notes, making it perfect for brainstorming, research, and creative projects.
You can also insert code blocks, and the app works well for collaboration thanks to its slideshow mode. For more structured planning, there’s a built-in timeline tool that helps keep everything on track.
4. Microsoft OneNote
Microsoft’s answer to Apple Notes and Google Keep, OneNote is packed with useful — and often overlooked — features. You can translate an entire page, add custom tags, and organize your notes into notebooks.
If you use Outlook, OneNote can sync your emails. Even if you don’t, it still offers full cloud syncing so you can access your notebooks from anywhere. The interface is more intuitive than Evernote, and it’s completely free.
5. Simplenote
Just like the name implies, Simplenote keeps things — well, simple. It has a minimal interface, but still includes handy features like internal linking between notes, checklists, and collaboration tools.
You can easily pin important notes to the top or share content with others. If you’re looking for something lightweight and reliable without distractions, Simplenote delivers.
You don’t need to pay for a great note-taking app. These free options offer clean, no-nonsense tools without pop-ups, ads, or feature overload — just smooth, reliable note-taking that works.
