Apple Notes vs Joplin
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Simple notes, built into Apple devices.
The verdict
Both Apple Notes and Joplin are credible note taking tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Apple Notes — Simple notes, built into Apple devices.
Choose Joplin if you'd rather have broader platform coverage. Open-source note-taking and to-do app with end-to-end encryption.
Apple Notes vs Joplin: side by side
| Dimension | Apple Notes | Joplin |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free | Free – $2.99/user/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Free | Open source |
| Best for | Apple Users, Individuals | Privacy Conscious Users, Developers |
| Platforms | Mac, Ios | Web, Mac, Windows, Linux, Ios, AndroidWinner |
| Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.4/5 |
Apple Notes key facts
- Vendor
- Apple
- Pricing
- Free — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Mac, Ios
- Best for
- Apple Users, Individuals
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2011
- Headquarters
- Cupertino, CA, USA
Joplin key facts
- Vendor
- Joplin
- Pricing
- Open source — Free – $2.99/user/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Mac, Windows, Linux, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Privacy Conscious Users, Developers
- Editor rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Founded
- 2017
- Headquarters
- France
Frequently asked questions
Is Apple Notes better than Joplin?
Neither is universally better — Apple Notes edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Apple Notes or Joplin cheaper?
Apple Notes is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. Apple Notes starts at free; Joplin starts at free – $2.99/user/mo.
Can Apple Notes replace Joplin?
Yes for most teams — both are note taking tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.