Notes · Head to head
Goodnotes vs Notion: which is better?
Short answer
Goodnotes costs less in the first year ($11.99 vs $600). Pick Goodnotes for handwritten notes and PDF annotation; pick Notion for docs, wikis and projects in one workspace.
| Fact | Goodnotes | Notion | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Handwritten notes and PDF annotation | Docs, wikis and projects in one workspace | — |
| Free plan | Yes, 3 files, 5 MB import | Yes, single-user workspace, limited blocks for teams | Tie |
| Entry plan | Essential: $11.99 / yr | Plus: $10 / seat / mo | — |
| Mid plan | Pro: $35.99 / yr | Business: $20 / seat / mo | — |
| Top plan | Teams: $120 / yr | Business: $20 / seat / mo | — |
| 1st year | $11.99 | $600 | Goodnotes |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Web | Web, Chrome extension | Goodnotes |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Goodnotes or Notion?
Neither stands out: Goodnotes: Yes, 3 files, 5 MB import; Notion: Yes, single-user workspace, limited blocks for teams.
Should you pick Goodnotes or Notion?
Pick Goodnotes if
- you want handwritten notes and PDF annotation
- the free plan is enough (3 files, 5 MB import)
Pick Notion if
- you want docs, wikis and projects in one workspace
- the free plan is enough (single-user workspace, limited blocks for teams)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Goodnotes pricing | goodnotes.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Notion pricing | notion.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare