Microsoft OneNote alternatives: 5 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave Microsoft OneNote: notebook structure can get messy, and exporting to other apps is awkward. We ranked 5 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Microsoft OneNote, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Evernote currently ranks first.
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Show all 5 alternativesThe best Microsoft OneNote alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best Microsoft OneNote alternative for most people
EvernoteStronger web clipping and search across scanned documents.
Best Microsoft OneNote alternative for a free option
JoplinOpen-source notebooks with encrypted sync and Markdown files.
Best Microsoft OneNote alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
NotionAdds databases and team wikis beyond free-form pages.
Best Microsoft OneNote alternative for open source
JoplinOpen-source notebooks with encrypted sync and Markdown files.
Best Microsoft OneNote alternative for self-hosting
JoplinOpen-source notebooks with encrypted sync and Markdown files.
Best Microsoft OneNote alternative for Mac
GoodnotesBetter handwriting and PDF markup for tablet users.
Best Microsoft OneNote alternative for Windows
EvernoteStronger web clipping and search across scanned documents.
Best Microsoft OneNote alternative for Linux
JoplinOpen-source notebooks with encrypted sync and Markdown files.
Best Microsoft OneNote alternative for iPhone and Android
Google KeepSimpler free notes and lists if OneNote feels heavy.
Best Microsoft OneNote alternative for working in the browser
EvernoteStronger web clipping and search across scanned documents.
Microsoft OneNote alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to Microsoft OneNote?
Evernote ranks first right now. Stronger web clipping and search across scanned documents. Joplin and Notion follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to Microsoft OneNote?
Yes. Evernote (free plan + paid), Joplin (open source), Notion (free plan + paid) and Google Keep (free) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to Microsoft OneNote?
Yes: Joplin. Joplin can also be self-hosted.
Which Microsoft OneNote alternatives work on Linux?
Joplin runs on Linux.
Why do people switch from Microsoft OneNote?
The complaints we hear most: notebook structure can get messy; exporting to other apps is awkward.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Microsoft OneNote, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.