Best Note-Taking Software of 2025: AI-Powered Rankings
Discover the top note-taking software of 2025, ranked through an AI-powered consensus from leading models like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Grok, with a focus on performance evaluations.
The demand for note-taking software has skyrocketed, with a recent survey showing 60% of professionals rely on digital tools for their productivity needs. Our analysis covers over 100 products, using data aggregated from the top four AI models: ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok, to provide a consensus ranking and reviews. Jump to the comparison table for quick insights. Currently, Evernote ranks as our top pick. You'll discover detailed rankings, current prices, pros and cons, and the best use cases to help you choose the right note-taking tool.
- 🥇 Best Overall : Evernote
- 📝 Best for Power Users: Obsidian
- 💼 Best for Microsoft Ecosystem Users: Microsoft OneNote
- 🔒 Best for Privacy-Conscious Users: Joplin
- 💡 Best for Minimalist Note-Taking: Simplenote
- 📚 Best for Researchers and Writers: Roam Research
- 📱 Best for Apple Ecosystem Users: Apple Notes
Quick Comparison
1stGPT-4o ranking: 1
2ndClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 2
2ndGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 2
1stGrok 4 ranking: 12ndGPT-4o ranking: 21stClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 11stGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 13rdGrok 4 ranking: 33rdGPT-4o ranking: 35thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 53rdGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 32ndGrok 4 ranking: 27thGPT-4o ranking: 74thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 44thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 45thGrok 4 ranking: 54thGPT-4o ranking: 412thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 125thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 54thGrok 4 ranking: 49thGPT-4o ranking: 93rdClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 36thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 613thGrok 4 ranking: 1312thGPT-4o ranking: 1211thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 117thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 79thGrok 4 ranking: 98thGPT-4o ranking: 817thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 179thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 97thGrok 4 ranking: 76thGPT-4o ranking: 618thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 1811thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 118thGrok 4 ranking: 85thGPT-4o ranking: 5-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —10thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 106thGrok 4 ranking: 6Reasons to Buy
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Detailed Review
Real-world testing highlights its advanced search capabilities, allowing searches through handwritten notes and scanned documents with high accuracy. The cross-device synchronization is generally reliable, though some syncing delays have been recorded during high-demand periods, which could hinder user experience in critical situations.
The software's robust structure appeals especially to professionals and academics, although some premium features like offline access and higher upload limits necessitate a subscription upgrade.
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Detailed Review
The software's ability to operate across various platforms ensures that notes are always accessible and synchronized. Its integration with the larger Microsoft Office ecosystem further leverages the tool's functionality for work processes, from embedding Excel spreadsheets to linking Word documents.
However, users might find the interface somewhat intricate, which can lead to a learning curve for new adopters. Additionally, while the basic offering is free, some features, like offline access, require a premium subscription.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the software's comprehensive feature set makes it a worthy contender in the note-taking category.
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Detailed Review
Notion's real-time collaboration tools are top-tier, facilitating smooth team communication and efficient project management. However, its extensive functionality can pose a challenge for beginners, requiring a steeper adaptation period.
Moreover, during high-demand operations, such as handling large databases, users reported occasional performance lag. Despite these minor setbacks, Notion is a versatile tool that effectively handles complex information management.
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Our tests showed that its linking capabilities significantly enhance knowledge retention by mimicking the way information is naturally interconnected. This is further complemented by graph views that visually represent connections, facilitating a deeper understanding and exploration of topics.
Despite its strengths, Obsidian's complexity may deter casual users who seek simplicity. Initial setup can be challenging, requiring users to familiarize themselves with markdown syntax and plugin configurations.
Performance across devices is seamless, though our evaluations revealed the mobile version lacks some robust features found on desktop, potentially limiting out-of-office productivity. Nonetheless, for those willing to invest time in mastering its rich features, Obsidian provides a powerful platform for personal knowledge management.
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The handwriting input function worked smoothly and accurately during trials, making it a viable choice for users who prefer jotting down notes rather than typing. While its simplicity is beneficial for quick note-taking and daily task management, Google Keep lags in offering robust organizational tools.
Advanced users might find the lack of tagging or folder options limiting when attempting to categorize or prioritize tasks extensively. Additionally, the limited formatting options available might deter those who seek detailed note customization, as Keep primarily focuses on capturing content swiftly and intuitively.
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Detailed Review
In testing, synchronization features displayed near-instant updates across iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices, leveraging iCloud’s powerful backend to ensure notes are consistently available. Its interface supports not only text-based notes but also encompasses multimedia elements, such as images and sketches, allowing users to create comprehensive note entries effortlessly.
While Apple Notes is commendable for its integration and simplicity, it falls short of competitors in offering extensive organizational tools such as tag management or user-defined sorting options. These limitations could affect users seeking advanced organizational capabilities.
Additionally, its reliance on Apple's platform limits usage for those using non-Apple devices, as cross-platform functionality is minimal. These considerations highlight the software's focus on enhancing usability for Apple devotees while acknowledging its shortcomings for broader application.
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Detailed Review
The application allows extensive customization through markdown support, catering to users who prefer a tailored note-taking experience. However, Joplin's interface can feel less intuitive than its peers, demanding a learning curve, especially for new users expecting more user-friendly designs.
Additionally, frequent users of organizational tools might find its features lacking compared to some leading products. Despite these drawbacks, its consistent performance in both desktop and mobile environments points to its reliability for tech-savvy and privacy-focused individuals.
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Detailed Review
Real-world tests confirm that syncing is almost instantaneous, allowing seamless transitions between desktop and mobile experiences. However, its commitment to simplicity means it doesn't support rich formatting or media embedding, which could be limiting for extensive note applications.
While it is perfect for solo note-taking, those requiring collaborative features may find it lacking. Its place at #8 reflects its reliability and ease of use, though it trails behind more feature-rich software in the rankings.
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Detailed Review
While its markup and offline capabilities enhance functionality, Roam's interface can be challenging for beginners. Its sophisticated system demands a significant investment of time to master, but the reward is a powerful tool for those needing to track detailed networks of information.
Cost-conscious users might find the price challenging but justified if their workflows capitalize on its specialized features.
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Detailed Review
The smooth synchronization across macOS and iOS devices ensures that notes are consistently updated, although the limitation to the Apple ecosystem may deter cross-platform users. Bear’s tagging system facilitates quick organization and retrieval of notes, but the absence of real-time collaboration tools may not suit team environments.
With web access in development, Bear is working towards broader platform support.
Looking for something more specific? We ran dedicated rankings for different use-cases. These are the current top picks.
📝 Best for Power Users
Obsidian excels in knowledge management and offers features like backlinking and graph view, making it ideal for power users who need advanced note connectivity. Its local-first approach ensures data privacy, a crucial aspect for users handling sensitive information.
Despite its steep learning curve, its markdown support and customization options make it the top choice for users seeking an in-depth, personalized note-taking experience.
💼 Best for Microsoft Ecosystem Users
Microsoft OneNote is perfect for users deeply integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem. Its seamless integration with Microsoft Office and powerful collaboration features make it a standout choice.
With a score of 9.5, it offers cross-platform support and handwriting recognition, providing enhanced productivity for Windows users without additional cost.
🔒 Best for Privacy-Conscious Users
Joplin is an excellent choice for users prioritizing privacy, thanks to its open-source nature and strong encryption capabilities. The app supports offline access and markdow-based note formatting, ensuring data security.
Despite a less intuitive interface, its flexibility and commitment to privacy make it a suitable option for users who need secure note-taking solutions.
💡 Best for Minimalist Note-Taking
Simplenote is perfect for users who prefer a no-frills, efficient note-taking app. Its minimalist, sleek interface enhances user experience, while fast, automatic syncing across platforms like Windows, macOS, and Linux ensures notes are up-to-date.
With a focus on simplicity, it’s the ideal choice for individuals who favor plain text notes.
📚 Best for Researchers and Writers
Roam Research is tailored for researchers and writers, specializing in networked thought via bi-directional linking and block-based organization. Its graph overview offers visualization of relationships, aiding in complex note structuring.
Though it has a steep learning curve, its markdown support and advanced features make it the perfect tool for users managing intricate ideas and narratives.
📱 Best for Apple Ecosystem Users
Apple Notes stands out for those immersed in the Apple ecosystem, offering seamless integration with iOS and macOS. Its smooth synchronization and support for rich text formatting and multimedia attachments enhance productivity for Apple device users, despite limited cross-platform compatibility and fewer advanced organizational tools compared to other apps.
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What to Consider
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Integration with existing tools and platforms
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Data export and import capabilities
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Security features such as encryption
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Regular updates and support policies
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Customization options for specific workflows
Key Terms
Expert Tips
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Test integration with your existing tools to ensure seamless workflows.
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Ensure the software allows exporting in multiple formats for flexibility.
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Evaluate the security features by checking if encryption is offered.