Notes · Head to head
Apple Notes vs Microsoft OneNote: which is better?
Short answer
Apple Notes costs less in the first year ($0 vs $119.88). Pick Apple Notes for free notes for Apple device owners; pick Microsoft OneNote for Microsoft 365 users who want notebooks.
| Fact | Apple Notes | Microsoft OneNote | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Free notes for Apple device owners | Microsoft 365 users who want notebooks | — |
| Free plan | Yes, included with iCloud on Apple devices | No, 30-day trial | Apple Notes |
| Entry plan | — | Microsoft 365 Personal: $9.99 / mo | — |
| Mid plan | — | Microsoft 365 Family: $12.99 / mo | — |
| Top plan | — | Microsoft 365 Premium: $19.99 / mo | — |
| 1st year | $0 | $119.88 | Apple Notes |
| Platforms | iOS, macOS, Web | Web, iOS, Android | Tie |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Apple Notes or Microsoft OneNote?
Apple Notes: Yes, included with iCloud on Apple devices.
Should you pick Apple Notes or Microsoft OneNote?
Pick Apple Notes if
- you want free notes for Apple device owners
- the free plan is enough (included with iCloud on Apple devices)
Pick Microsoft OneNote if
- you want Microsoft 365 users who want notebooks
- you can pay $9.99 / mo from day one
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Notes pricing | apple.com/icloud/ | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Microsoft OneNote pricing | microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/onenote/digital-note-taking-app | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare