Apps and tools for a calm, enjoyable life

Apple Notes

Free

Apple Notes is a simple and effective way to capture and organize your thoughts on your Apple devices.

Our take

Best for Apple users seeking simplicity.

Alright, so let's dive into Apple Notes. It's one of those apps that you might overlook because it's already on your iPhone or Mac, but it’s actually pretty handy. First off, it’s ridiculously easy to use. You open it up, and boom, you're writing or sketching or doing whatever you need to do. No fussing around with settings or learning curves. It’s like that comfy pair of shoes you always go back to. If you’re someone who just wants to jot down a quick thought without jumping through hoops, this app’s got you covered.

Now, Apple Notes shines when you’re all in on the Apple ecosystem. It syncs seamlessly across your devices, so your notes are wherever you are — on your Mac, iPad, or iPhone. This is a huge plus if you’re the kind of person who’s always jumping between gadgets. But, and there’s always a but, if you’re using Android or Windows devices, you’re out of luck. Apple Notes doesn’t play nice with those, which is a bit of a bummer if you’re not Apple-exclusive.

One thing I really appreciate is how it organizes stuff. You can create folders, add tags, and even pin important notes to the top. It’s a simple system, but it works. Plus, there’s the option to lock notes if you want to keep some things private. The interface is clean and uncluttered, which I find refreshing. You’re not bombarded with features you don’t need, just the stuff that helps you keep everything neat and tidy.

Let’s talk features. Apple Notes has gotten better at handling different types of content. You can add images, create checklists, and even scan documents directly into a note. The app also supports handwritten notes if you’re using an iPad with an Apple Pencil. That’s pretty cool if you’re into digital sketching or like to handwrite your notes. However, don’t expect it to replace something like Evernote or Notion if you need advanced organizational tools or integrations. It’s great for basic needs, but it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles some power users might want.

Overall, Apple Notes is like that dependable friend who’s always there when you need them. It’s straightforward, reliable, and gets the job done without any drama. If you’re deep into Apple’s world and looking for a no-nonsense note-taking app, it’s a solid choice. Just remember, if you’re mixing devices from different brands, you might hit a wall. But for Apple folks, it’s a pretty sweet deal, especially at the unbeatable price of free.

$14/month

$69.99/year

$39/year