Top 8 Evernote Alternatives for Boosting Your Productivity in 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of productivity tools, Evernote alternatives have become increasingly popular as users seek better solutions for note-taking and personal organization. Since its launch in 2008, Evernote has assisted millions in capturing ideas, organizing projects, and streamlining their digital lives. However, as user needs diversify and new technologies emerge, many are exploring alternatives that offer more tailored features.

While Evernote is powerful, it has faced criticism regarding pricing changes, limitations in free plans, and a sometimes overwhelming interface. These issues, along with the rise of specialized competitors, have prompted users to seek other options.

In this guide, we present the top Evernote alternatives for 2024, considering key criteria such as:

• Functionality: Does the app provide a comprehensive set of note-taking and organization features?

• User Interface: Is the app intuitive and easy to navigate?

• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Can users access their notes seamlessly across various devices and operating systems?

• Collaboration Features: How effectively does the app support teamwork and sharing?

• Integration Capabilities: Does it work well with other productivity tools and services?

• Pricing: Does it offer good value for money, with plans to suit different needs?

• Unique Features: What distinguishes it from Evernote and other competitors?

Whether you're a long-time Evernote user seeking a change or a productivity enthusiast exploring the best tools available, this guide will help you navigate the leading Evernote alternatives in 2024. Let’s delve into the apps that are pushing the ultimate boundaries of note-taking and personal knowledge management.

Why Consider Evernote Alternatives?

While Evernote has long been a pioneer in the digital note-taking space, several factors have prompted users to seek alternatives in recent years.

Evernote's Limitations and Recent Changes

One major issue is Evernote's pricing structure; the shift of previously free features to paid tiers has left many feeling priced out of functionalities they once enjoyed. Additionally, as Evernote has expanded its offerings, some users find the app overly complex, which can hinder productivity rather than enhance it.

Free users also face limitations, such as syncing across only two devices, which can be frustrating in our multi-device world. The monthly upload cap of 60MB on the free plan can feel restrictive for those who frequently add images or attachments. While Evernote's search functionality is robust, it has limitations, particularly in searching within PDFs or handwritten notes. Furthermore, although collaboration tools have improved, they still lag behind competitors, especially for real-time teamwork.

The Importance of Finding the Right Note-Taking App

Choosing the right note-taking app is crucial for several reasons:

• Productivity Boost: An app that aligns with your workflow can significantly increase your efficiency and output.

• Organization: The right tool helps you structure your thoughts, projects, and information in a way that makes sense to you.

• Accessibility: Being able to access your notes anytime, anywhere, on any device is key in our increasingly mobile world.

• Integration: An app that works well with your other tools creates a seamless productivity ecosystem.

• Learning Curve: An intuitive interface reduces the time spent learning the app and increases time spent actually using it.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Finding an app that offers the features you need at a price point you're comfortable with ensures long-term usability.

• Future-Proofing: Choosing an app with active development and a strong user base helps ensure your note-taking system will be supported for years to come.

As we delve into the top Evernote alternatives for 2024, consider your specific needs and workflow. The perfect note-taking app can transform your productivity, acting as a second brain that captures, organizes, and retrieves information exactly when you need it.

Top 10 Evernote Alternatives for 2024

AFFiNE

AFFiNE is an open-source, privacy-first alternative to Evernote that is rapidly gaining traction among tech-savvy users. With a focus on user privacy and data security, AFFiNE stands out in a crowded marketplace.

Remarkably, it has garnered over 40,000 stars on GitHub within just 750 days, reflecting its growing popularity and community support. This impressive achievement highlights its appeal, especially among those who prioritize open-source solutions. By offering a versatile platform for note-taking, task management, and collaborative work, AFFiNE caters to a diverse range of user needs while maintaining a commitment to transparency and user control over their data.

Key Features

• Markdown-Based Note-Taking: Streamlined writing experience with formatting options.

• Kanban Board for Task Management: Visual organization of tasks to enhance productivity.

• Real-Time Collaboration: Work simultaneously with others on notes and projects.

• Local-First Architecture: Prioritizes offline access with optional cloud sync.

• Whiteboard Mode: Ideal for visual thinking and brainstorming.

• AFFiNE AI: Note Taking AI from rough notes to mind map.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Open-source and privacy-focused.

• Versatile with features for note-taking, task management, and whiteboarding.

• Offline-first approach guarantees data availability.

• Active development with frequent updates.

Cons:

• May experience some stability issues.

• Learning curve for users accustomed to traditional note-taking apps.

• Smaller ecosystem compared to established alternatives.

Pricing

• Free and open-source.

• Self-hosted option available.

• Paid cloud plans expected in the future.

Best For

AFFiNE is best for privacy-conscious users and those who appreciate open-source software with a local-first approach to data management. Its commitment to user privacy ensures that your data remains secure and under your control, making it an excellent choice for individuals and teams concerned about data breaches and surveillance.

In addition to its privacy features, AFFiNE offers a variety of templates to help users get started quickly, streamlining the note-taking and project management process. This means you can easily customize your workspace without having to build everything from scratch.

Furthermore, AFFiNE includes an innovative feature called AFFiNE AI, which allows users to convert documents into mind maps rapidly. This functionality enhances brainstorming sessions and aids in visualizing complex ideas, making it easier to organize thoughts and concepts in a more intuitive manner. Overall, AFFiNE stands out as a powerful tool that balances privacy, functionality, and user-friendliness.

Notion

Notion is a versatile productivity tool that combines note-taking, task management, and collaboration in a single platform, making it a popular choice among users looking for an all-in-one solution. Its flexibility allows users to create customized workspaces tailored to their specific needs, whether for personal organization or team projects. Unlike Evernote, which focuses primarily on note-taking, Notion offers a wide range of features, including kanban boards, databases, and calendars, all within a single interface. This comprehensive approach enables users to streamline their workflows and reduce the need for multiple applications.

Moreover, Notion’s collaborative features allow teams to work together in real time, making it easier to share ideas, track progress, and manage projects seamlessly. The platform’s ability to integrate with other tools enhances its functionality, further positioning it as a robust alternative to Evernote. For users seeking a more dynamic and customizable solution, Notion provides the versatility and collaboration capabilities that make it an excellent choice for enhancing productivity and organization.

Key Features

• Markdown Support: Offers a streamlined writing experience with easy formatting options.

• Kanban Boards: Visualize and manage tasks effectively with customizable boards.

• Real-Time Collaboration: Collaborate with team members in real-time on notes and projects.

• Cross-Platform Access: Seamlessly access your workspace on various devices and operating systems.

• Database Functionality: Organize information in customizable databases for enhanced tracking and management.

• Templates and Integrations: Utilize a variety of templates and integrations with other tools to enhance productivity.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Highly customizable interface that adapts to various workflows.

• Robust collaboration features for team projects.

• Comprehensive integration capabilities with other productivity tools.

• Active community and frequent updates that enhance functionality.

Cons:

• Can be overwhelming for new users due to its extensive features.

• Performance issues may arise with large databases or complex setups.

• The free plan has limitations on blocks and features.

Pricing

• Free plan available with essential features.

• Paid plans offer expanded functionality and additional features.

Best For

Notion is ideal for users seeking a highly flexible productivity tool that can serve as a central hub for note-taking, project management, and collaboration, particularly in team environments.

Microsoft OneNote

Microsoft OneNote is a powerful productivity tool that combines note-taking, organization, and collaboration in a single platform, making it a favored choice for users seeking a comprehensive solution for their personal and professional needs.

Key Features

• Rich Text Formatting: Offers a versatile writing experience with extensive formatting options, including text, images, and audio notes.

• Notebooks and Sections: Organize information within customizable notebooks and sections for easy navigation.

• Real-Time Collaboration: Work together with team members on notes and projects in real time, enhancing group productivity.

• Cross-Platform Access: Seamlessly access your notes across various devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones.

• Integration with Microsoft Office: Easily integrate with other Microsoft Office applications, allowing for a smoother workflow.

• Web Clipper: Capture web content directly into OneNote for easy reference and organization.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Highly intuitive interface that simplifies note-taking and organization.

• Excellent collaboration features for team projects and sharing.

• Strong integration with other Microsoft products enhances functionality.

• Supports multimedia notes, including audio recordings and images.

Cons:

• Can feel cluttered for users who prefer a minimalist interface.

• Performance may be affected with large notebooks or extensive content.

• Limited export options compared to some competitors.

Pricing

• Free plan available with essential features.

• Part of Microsoft 365 subscription plans for expanded functionality and storage.

Best For

Microsoft OneNote is ideal for users looking for a flexible and feature-rich note-taking tool that can serve as a central hub for personal organization and team collaboration, especially within the Microsoft ecosystem.

Milanote

Milanote is a visually-oriented productivity tool that combines note-taking, project management, and collaboration in a single platform, making it a preferred choice for creative professionals and teams seeking an intuitive and organized solution.

Key Features

• Visual Boards: Create dynamic boards that allow you to arrange notes, images, and tasks visually, promoting creative thinking.

• Flexible Note-Taking: Supports various types of content, including text, images, links, and files, for a rich note-taking experience.

• Real-Time Collaboration: Work with team members on shared boards in real time, facilitating seamless collaboration and brainstorming.

• Cross-Platform Access: Access your projects on any device, ensuring your ideas are always within reach.

• Templates and Layouts: Utilize a variety of customizable templates to kickstart your projects and maintain organization.

• Integration with Third-Party Tools: Easily connect with other productivity tools to enhance your workflow.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Highly visual interface that appeals to creative users.

• Excellent collaboration features for team projects and brainstorming sessions.

• Flexible structure allows for a personalized organization of ideas and tasks.

• Active community and frequent updates enhance functionality.

Cons:

• May not be ideal for users who prefer traditional text-based note-taking.

• Some users may find the visual layout less efficient for extensive text notes.

• Limited offline functionality compared to some competitors.

Pricing

• Free plan available with basic features.

• Paid plans offer additional functionality and storage options.

Best For

Milanote is perfect for creative professionals and teams looking for a flexible, visually-driven tool that serves as a central hub for organizing ideas, managing projects, and collaborating effectively.

Google Keep

Google Keep is a simple yet effective note-taking tool that allows users to capture ideas, create lists, and organize information seamlessly across devices. Its integration with the Google ecosystem makes it a popular choice for those who seek a straightforward and efficient way to manage their notes and tasks.

Key Features

• Sticky Note Interface: Create colorful, visual notes that can be easily rearranged on your dashboard for quick access.

• Labels and Colors: Organize notes using customizable labels and colors, making it easy to categorize and find information at a glance.

• Real-Time Collaboration: Share notes and collaborate with others in real time, enhancing group productivity.

• Cross-Platform Access: Access your notes on any device, including smartphones, tablets, and desktops, ensuring your ideas are always at your fingertips.

• Voice Notes and Reminders: Capture thoughts quickly using voice memos and set reminders to stay on top of your tasks.

• Integration with Google Services: Easily integrate with other Google tools like Google Drive and Google Docs for a cohesive workflow.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• User-friendly interface that is easy to navigate.

• Quick and efficient for capturing short notes and ideas.

• Strong integration with the Google ecosystem enhances functionality.

• Excellent for collaborative projects with real-time sharing capabilities.

Cons:

• Limited formatting options compared to more advanced note-taking apps.

• Not ideal for complex project management or long-form content.

• Offline functionality can be restricted in some cases.

Pricing

• Free to use with a Google account, offering essential features without any cost.

Best For

Google Keep is perfect for users seeking a straightforward, visual note-taking tool that integrates seamlessly with the Google ecosystem. It's ideal for individuals and teams who need a quick and efficient way to capture and organize ideas, lists, and reminders on the go.

Obsidian

Obsidian is a powerful note-taking and knowledge management tool designed for users who want to create interconnected notes and build a personal knowledge base. Its unique approach to linking notes makes it a popular choice for writers, researchers, and anyone interested in organizing their thoughts effectively.

Key Features

• Markdown Support: Write notes in plain text using Markdown, allowing for easy formatting and portability.

• Linking and Backlinking: Create connections between notes effortlessly, enabling a network of ideas that can be explored and expanded.

• Graph View: Visualize your notes and their connections through an interactive graph, helping to see the relationships between concepts.

• Customizable Themes and Plugins: Personalize your workspace with a variety of themes and extend functionality with community-developed plugins.

• Offline Access: Work on your notes anytime, anywhere, without needing an internet connection.

• Search Functionality: Quickly find notes using powerful search tools, including tag and keyword searches.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Highly customizable and adaptable to individual workflows.

• Robust linking features promote deeper understanding and retention of information.

• Active community that contributes plugins and themes for enhanced functionality.

• Offline capabilities ensure access to notes without the need for internet.

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve compared to simpler note-taking apps.

• May require time to set up and customize to fit personal preferences.

• Limited collaboration features compared to some cloud-based alternatives.

Pricing

• Free for personal use with an optional paid subscription for advanced features and syncing across devices.

Best For

Obsidian is ideal for users seeking a flexible and powerful note-taking tool that emphasizes connection and organization of ideas. It’s perfect for writers, students, and researchers who want to build a comprehensive knowledge base and explore the relationships between their notes.

Logseq

Logseq is an open-source note-taking and knowledge management tool designed for users who want to create interconnected notes while building a personal knowledge base. Developed by a small team, Logseq offers a unique approach to organizing thoughts and information, making it an appealing choice for writers, researchers, and anyone interested in a more structured way to capture ideas.

Key Features

• Markdown and Org Mode Support: Write notes in plain text using Markdown or Org mode, providing flexibility in formatting and organization.

• Bidirectional Linking: Easily create connections between notes, enabling a web of ideas that can be explored and expanded upon.

• Outline Structure: Organize your notes hierarchically with an intuitive outline format, promoting clarity and focus.

• Graph View: Visualize your notes and their connections through an interactive graph, making it easier to see relationships between concepts.

• Customizable Themes and Plugins: Personalize your workspace with various themes and extend functionality with community-developed plugins.

• Offline Access: Work on your notes anytime, anywhere, without needing an internet connection.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Open-source nature allows for transparency and community-driven development.

• Highly customizable to fit individual workflows and preferences.

• Robust linking features enhance understanding and retention of information.

• Active community contributes plugins and themes for additional functionality.

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve compared to more straightforward note-taking apps.

• May require time to set up and tailor to personal needs.

• Limited collaboration features compared to some mainstream alternatives.

Pricing

• Free to use with a focus on community support and open-source principles.

Best For

Logseq is ideal for users seeking a flexible, open-source note-taking tool that emphasizes connectivity and organization of ideas. It’s particularly suited for writers, students, and researchers who want to build a comprehensive knowledge base while supporting a small, innovative team dedicated to enhancing the tool's capabilities.

Heptbase

Heptbase is an innovative note-taking and project management tool designed for users who want to streamline their creative processes and enhance collaboration. With a focus on visual organization and team synergy, Heptbase is an excellent choice for marketers, content creators, and teams looking for an effective way to manage ideas and projects.

Key Features

• Visual Boards: Create engaging boards that allow users to arrange notes, images, and tasks in a visually appealing format, facilitating creative thinking.

• Collaboration Tools: Share boards and collaborate with team members in real time, enhancing productivity and idea exchange.

• Task Management: Track progress with built-in task management features, including deadlines, assignments, and status updates.

• Customizable Templates: Utilize various templates to jumpstart projects and maintain organization, tailored to different workflows.

• Cross-Platform Access: Access your projects on any device, ensuring your ideas are always available when you need them.

• Integrations with Other Tools: Easily connect with popular productivity tools to enhance your workflow and streamline processes.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Intuitive interface that simplifies project management and note-taking.

• Excellent collaboration features make it easy for teams to work together.

• Flexible structure allows for personalized organization of ideas and tasks.

• Regular updates from a dedicated team enhance functionality.

Cons:

• May lack some advanced features found in more established note-taking apps.

• Users seeking a minimalist interface might find it visually busy.

• Limited offline capabilities compared to some competitors.

Pricing

• Free plan available with essential features, along with paid options for advanced functionality and additional storage.

Best For

Heptbase is perfect for creative professionals and teams looking for a visually-driven tool that supports collaboration and organization. It's ideal for marketers, content creators, and project teams who want to streamline their workflows while fostering a dynamic environment for idea generation and project management.

Other Evernote Alternatives for Option

Bear Notes: A Cheaper Alternative with Markdown Support

Bear Notes is a note-taking app that offers a cost-effective alternative to Evernote, with a focus on simplicity and efficiency. It provides a range of features such as note organization, tagging, and searching, which help users keep their notes well-structured and easily accessible. Bear Notes also supports Markdown, allowing users to format their notes with ease. The app includes a distraction-free writing mode, which is perfect for users who want to focus on their writing without any interruptions. With its affordable pricing and robust feature set, Bear Notes is an excellent choice for users looking for a straightforward and efficient note-taking app.

Reflect Notes: The Secure and AI-Powered Note Taking App

Reflect Notes is a note-taking app that prioritizes security and advanced features. It offers a range of functionalities such as note organization, tagging, and searching, making it easy to keep your notes well-organized and accessible. Reflect Notes stands out with its AI-powered note analysis, which helps users gain insights from their notes and improve their productivity. Additionally, the app provides secure encryption to ensure that your notes remain private and protected. For users who value security and advanced features, Reflect Notes is an excellent choice for managing and organizing notes effectively.

NotePlan: A Markdown-Based Note Taking Solution

NotePlan is a note-taking app that uses Markdown to format notes, making it a popular alternative to Evernote. This app is designed for users who prefer a clean, text-based approach to note-taking. NotePlan offers a range of features such as note organization, tagging, and searching, which help users keep their notes well-structured and easily accessible. Additionally, NotePlan integrates seamlessly with other apps and services, allowing users to streamline their workflow and enhance productivity. Whether you’re managing daily tasks or organizing detailed notes, NotePlan provides a flexible and efficient solution for all your note-taking needs.

This comparison table provides a quick overview of the key features and offerings of each tool, helping you determine which alternative best suits your needs.

Tips for Transitioning from Evernote

Making the switch from Evernote to a new note-taking app can seem daunting, but with a structured approach, the process can be smooth and efficient. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you transition successfully.

How to Export Notes from Evernote

The first step in your transition is exporting your notes from Evernote. This process is straightforward:

1. Open Evernote: Start by launching the Evernote application on your desktop.

2. Select Your Notes: Choose the notes or entire notebooks you wish to export. You can select multiple items by holding down the Ctrl (Windows) or Command (Mac) key while clicking on your desired notes.

3. Export Your Notes: Navigate to the menu and click onFile, then select Export Notes. Choose the appropriate format (like .enex for Evernote XML) and decide where to save the exported file.

4. Confirm the Export: Finally, clickSaveto complete the export process. You now have a backup of your notes ready for import into your new app.

Tips for Organizing and Importing into New Apps

After exporting your notes, it’s time to organize and import them into your new app. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth transition:

Plan Your Structure

Before importing, think about how you want to organize your notes in the new application. Create a structure that fits your workflow—this could be based on projects, topics, or dates. A clear organization will make it easier to find and manage your notes later.

Clean Up Your Notes

Use this transition period to declutter. Review your exported notes and delete any that are outdated or irrelevant. This will simplify the import process and help you retain only the information you truly need.

Use Tags and Categories

If the new app supports tagging or categorization, consider applying these features during or after the import. Organizing your notes with tags can enhance retrieval and make your workspace more efficient.

Import Your Notes

Follow the specific instructions for importing notes into your new app. Most applications will have an import feature that allows you to upload the .enex file or other formats. Be prepared for potential formatting adjustments, as different apps may handle content differently.

Test the New Workflow

Take some time to explore the new app's features. Create a few test notes and organize them according to your planned structure. This will help you familiarize yourself with the interface and functionality of the new tool.

Backup Your Notes

Always keep a backup of your exported notes, whether in the original Evernote format or as a separate backup file. This precaution ensures that you won’t lose any important information during the transition.

Seek Help if Needed

If you encounter any challenges during the transition, don’t hesitate to check the support resources for the new app. Many platforms offer community forums, FAQs, or customer support to assist you with common issues.

By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth transition from Evernote to your new note-taking app. With a little planning and organization, you can maintain your productivity throughout the process and set yourself up for success in your new digital workspace.

Conclusion

In summary, if you're considering a transition from Evernote, there are several compelling alternatives available, with AFFiNE standing out as an excellent choice for privacy-conscious users. Its open-source nature, local-first approach, and powerful features like Markdown support and real-time collaboration make it a versatile tool for managing notes and tasks.

Don’t hesitate to explore a few of these alternatives to find the one that best suits your needs. Each app offers unique features and functionalities, so trying them out can help you determine which platform enhances your productivity and aligns with your workflow. Embrace the opportunity to find a new digital workspace that works better for you!

FAQs

Is Evernote still going away?

As of 2024, Evernote is not going away. Despite facing challenges and being acquired by Bending Spoons in 2022, the company continues to operate and support its users. However, changes in ownership and strategy have led some users to seek out alternatives, making it important to stay informed about other options available.

Is Evernote still worth it in 2024?

Whether Evernote is worth it in 2024 largely depends on your personal needs and preferences. Long-time users who are comfortable with its interface and ecosystem might still find value in it. However, many alternatives have emerged with new features and different pricing structures, which could offer better functionality for some users. It's essential to evaluate your specific requirements alongside what Evernote currently offers and how it compares to its competitors.

What are some good substitutes for Evernote?

There’s no one-size-fits-all substitute for Evernote, as different alternatives shine in various areas. Some popular options include:

• Notion: Great for an all-in-one workspace.

• AFFiNE: Perfect for open-source enthusiasts and privacy-focused users.

• OneNote: A solid free option with strong Microsoft integration.

• Obsidian: Ideal for those who prefer local storage and high customization.

Your best choice will depend on your needs, such as collaboration features, budget, platform compatibility, and integrations with other tools.

How do I choose the right Evernote alternative?

To find the right alternative, start by identifying the features you absolutely need. Consider your budget and the platforms you use (mobile, desktop, or web). Think about how important collaboration features are for you. It’s also a good idea to try out free versions or trials of potential options, read user reviews, and assess the long-term viability of the alternatives you’re considering.

Can I easily transfer my notes from Evernote to another app?

Most popular Evernote alternatives allow you to import your notes fairly easily. This usually involves exporting your notes from Evernote as .enex files and then importing them into the new app. However, the success of the transfer can vary; some apps maintain all formatting and attachments, while others may have limitations. It’s wise to test the import process with a small batch of notes first to ensure everything transfers smoothly before making a complete switch.