Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more

Comparison Guide

Notion vs Apple Notes: Which Note App Is Better in 2025?

Wondering whether to choose Notion or Apple Notes? Our detailed comparison analyzes every aspect that matters.

Notion vs Apple Notes at a Glance

Feature Notion Apple Notes
Free Plan Yes Yes Yes Yes
Databases Powerful Powerful No No
Real-time Collaboration Yes Yes Limited Limited
Mobile Apps iOS & Android iOS & Android Yes Yes
API Access Yes Yes Yes Yes
Templates 10,000+ 10,000+ Varies Varies

Quick Verdict

Overview

Notion and Apple Notes are both excellent tools, but they serve different needs. undefined

Key Differences

The main difference between Notion and Apple Notes comes down to focus and features. Notion offers a comprehensive solution while Apple Notes excels in specific areas.

Apple Notes Strengths

  • Free and pre-installed on Apple devices
  • Seamless iCloud sync across devices
  • Simple, clean interface
  • Good handwriting support with Apple Pencil
  • Quick notes from Lock Screen
  • Tight Apple ecosystem integration

Apple Notes Weaknesses

  • Apple devices only
  • No web access (limited)
  • Basic organization (folders only)
  • No database or advanced features
  • Limited collaboration features
  • No third-party integrations

Pricing Comparison

Apple Notes pricing: undefined. No free tier available.

Who Is Apple Notes Best For?

Apple users wanting simple, quick note-taking

Our Verdict

undefined

Why Choose Notion?

Cross-Platform Apps

Access Notion on web, desktop (Mac, Windows), and mobile (iOS, Android). Your work syncs everywhere.

Custom Domains

Publish public pages with your own custom domain. Perfect for documentation sites, portfolios, and more.

Offline Access

View and edit cached pages even without internet. Changes sync automatically when you're back online.

All-in-One Workspace

Combine notes, docs, wikis, databases, and project management in a single, flexible platform. No more switching between apps.

Ready to try Notion?

Get started with Notion's free tier — no credit card required.

Get Started Free

Who Should Choose Notion?

  • You need an all-in-one workspace for notes, docs, and projects
  • You want powerful databases and custom views
  • Team collaboration is important to you
  • You prefer a generous free tier
  • You value flexibility and customization

Who Should Choose Apple Notes?

  • You value free and pre-installed on apple devices
  • You value seamless icloud sync across devices
  • You value simple, clean interface
  • You value good handwriting support with apple pencil
  • You value quick notes from lock screen

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Notion free to use? +
Yes, Notion offers a generous free plan for individuals with unlimited blocks and pages. Teams can start free with limited block trials. Paid plans (Plus at $10/user/month and Business at $18/user/month) unlock features like unlimited file uploads, version history, and admin tools.
Does Notion have a mobile app? +
Yes, Notion has native apps for iOS and Android that sync with web and desktop. The mobile apps support most features including editing, creating pages, and accessing databases. Some advanced features work better on desktop due to screen size.
How does Notion AI work? +
Notion AI is an add-on feature ($8/member/month) that helps you write, edit, summarize, and brainstorm. You can ask AI to draft content, improve writing, translate text, explain concepts, or generate action items. It works within any Notion page.
Is Notion better than Obsidian? +
It depends on your needs. Notion excels at collaboration, databases, and all-in-one workspace functionality. Obsidian is better for local-first note-taking, privacy, and building a personal knowledge management system. Choose Notion for team collaboration, Obsidian for personal PKM.
Can I use Notion offline? +
Notion has limited offline support. You can view and edit recently accessed pages that are cached on your device. However, for full functionality and syncing, you need an internet connection. If offline access is critical, consider tools like Obsidian that work fully offline.

Related Comparisons