Best Note-Taking Apps to Use in 2025
If you have ever been caught short on the go without a notepad and pen, a note-taking app could be for you. Note-taking apps let users jot down information or create to-do lists in a digital format, helping to keep important ideas in one place. These apps also include features such as folders and tags, ensuring maximum functionality and convenience. Here are our top picks of the best note-taking apps for 2025.
1. Obsidian
Obsidian is a free note-taking app with optional add-on services. It stores information privately and uses open file formats so data always belongs to the user. Notes made on the app are also accessible offline, meaning users can refer to them even with a dodgy internet connection. Moreover, users can create connections between notes by adding links to certain words or phrases, essentially creating a personal Wikipedia entry with customized information. Graphs help map out notes visually, while plug-ins like the calendar or Kanban help users create their own workflow. Obsidian is available for download on Windows, Mac, and Linux devices, as well as iOS and Android.
2. Notion
Notion is a collaborative workspace for ideas and projects. Trusted by companies like Toyota, Notion lets teams offer feedback and comment on documents. Users can store their projects, goals, calendars, and roadmaps in a single app, offering a convenient, streamlined approach to note-taking. In addition, Notion AI integrates seamlessly into workspaces and is on guard to assist with brainstorming, writing, and locating files. Sign up to Notion for free or purchase one of the budget-friendly paid options on their website.
3. Joplin
Joplin is an open-source note-taking app that lets users securely access their notes from any device. Users can share and collaborate on notes and documents with friends and colleagues with Joplin Cloud. The app offers many customized features, and users can even upload videos, PDFs, and audio files to their notes, or create math expressions directly from the app. Notes created on Joplin are saved to an open format, meaning users will always have access to them. It also uses End-To-End Encryption so that notes are private between designated users. Joplin is available for download on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
4. Standard Notes
Standard Notes is a free and secure note-taking application that protects digital notes with End-To-End Encryption. Users can safely store rich text documents, code snippets, passwords, and to-do lists in one place, and rest assured only they have the keys required to decrypt data. Enhanced privacy controls also protect against hacks and data breaches, while automated backups ensure that data is safe even if a device is lost or stolen. Standard Notes recently merged with Proton, an email and cloud storage provider that puts user privacy first. The app is available for free, and subscription options are available.
5. OneNote
Powered by Microsoft, OneNote is a cross-functional notebook designed to boost productivity. OneNote lets users write or sketch their ideas just like they would with a notebook and pen, while voice transcription easily captures notes for maximum efficiency. The app is also handy for teachers to build and organize lesson plans in a searchable digital format and content library. Aspiring OneNote users can download this handy note-taking app via the OneNote website.
6. Evernote
Evernote is a great note-taking companion, offering everything needed for planning and streamlining daily life and work projects. Users can sort their notes into a system of notebooks or store them separately depending on their work style. To locate documents, users can search for keywords, even if they appear in photos, whiteboard scans, or business cards. Moreover, users can link meeting notes to calendar events, add reminders to to-do lists, and keep on top of assignments. Evernote is available for free or for a paid monthly subscription.
7. Logseq
Logseq is an open-source note-taking and collaboration platform that focuses on organizing information. The app helps users structure and connect their thoughts, memorize facts using the Flashcards feature, and create a clear daily plan. Data stored on Logseq is wholly owned by users, making it a safe place for users to store their questions, ideas, favorite quotes, and reminders. Moreover, notes are always backed up and securely available in real-time with encrypted file syncing. Check out more Logseq features and download the app for free on their website.
8. Amplenote
Amplenote is a note-taking app that offers four main modes, namely Jots, Notes, Tasks, and Calendar, to bring ideas to life. Users can use the app to log daily activities, capture web content, and oversee their best ideas with the Quick Task Bar. The app is designed to minimize distractions and lets users search previous content and revisit old ideas. Amplenote is available on iOS, Android, or as a desktop app.
Boost productivity with note-taking apps
Most people have a note-taking system to help them streamline their thoughts and tasks. In this digital age, note-taking apps are a popular way to jot down information and keep everything together. Here, we have introduced eight of the best note-taking apps available to help you stop scribbling your to-do list on the back of your hand and bring some structure to your notes.
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Jeni is a translator and writer based in Taiwan. She is passionate about business development and loves helping companies enter international markets. She is fluent in English, German, and Mandarin Chinese, and combines these with her industry experience to provide practical market entry solutions.
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