Notes · Head to head
Apple Notes vs Obsidian: which is better?
Short answer
Apple Notes costs less in the first year ($0 vs $48). Pick Apple Notes for free notes for Apple device owners; pick Obsidian for local-first Markdown notes with plugins.
| Fact | Apple Notes | Obsidian | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Free notes for Apple device owners | Local-first Markdown notes with plugins | — |
| Free plan | Yes, included with iCloud on Apple devices | Yes, app free; sync and publish are paid add-ons | Tie |
| Entry plan | — | Sync Standard: $4 / mo | — |
| Mid plan | — | Sync Plus: $8 / mo | — |
| Top plan | — | Publish: $8 / mo | — |
| 1st year | $0 | $48 | Apple Notes |
| Platforms | iOS, macOS, Web | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Obsidian |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Apple Notes or Obsidian?
Neither stands out: Apple Notes: Yes, included with iCloud on Apple devices; Obsidian: Yes, app free; sync and publish are paid add-ons.
Should you pick Apple Notes or Obsidian?
Pick Apple Notes if
- you want free notes for Apple device owners
- the free plan is enough (included with iCloud on Apple devices)
Pick Obsidian if
- you want local-first Markdown notes with plugins
- the free plan is enough (app free; sync and publish are paid add-ons)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Notes pricing | apple.com/icloud/ | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Obsidian pricing | obsidian.md/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare