Notes · Head to head
Goodnotes vs Google Keep: which is better?
Short answer
Google Keep costs less in the first year ($11.99 vs $0). Pick Goodnotes for handwritten notes and PDF annotation; pick Google Keep for quick notes and checklists.
| Fact | Goodnotes | Google Keep | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Handwritten notes and PDF annotation | Quick notes and checklists | — |
| Free plan | Yes, 3 files, 5 MB import | Yes, free, uses Google account storage (15 GB) | Tie |
| Entry plan | Essential: $11.99 / yr | — | — |
| Mid plan | Pro: $35.99 / yr | — | — |
| Top plan | Teams: $120 / yr | — | — |
| 1st year | $11.99 | $0 | Google Keep |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Web | Web, Android, iOS | Goodnotes |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Goodnotes or Google Keep?
Neither stands out: Goodnotes: Yes, 3 files, 5 MB import; Google Keep: Yes, free, uses Google account storage (15 GB).
Should you pick Goodnotes or Google Keep?
Pick Goodnotes if
- you want handwritten notes and PDF annotation
- the free plan is enough (3 files, 5 MB import)
Pick Google Keep if
- you want quick notes and checklists
- the free plan is enough (free, uses Google account storage (15 GB))
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Goodnotes pricing | goodnotes.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Google Keep pricing | workspace.google.com/products/keep/ | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare