Notes · Head to head
Notability vs Apple Notes: which is better?
Short answer
Apple Notes costs less in the first year ($11.99 vs $0). Pick Notability for handwritten notes on Apple devices; pick Apple Notes for free notes for Apple device owners.
| Fact | Notability | Apple Notes | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Handwritten notes on Apple devices | Free notes for Apple device owners | — |
| Free plan | Yes, 5 free notes | Yes, included with iCloud on Apple devices | Tie |
| Entry plan | Lite: $11.99 / yr | — | — |
| Mid plan | Plus: $15.99 / yr | — | — |
| Top plan | Business: $60 / yr | — | — |
| 1st year | $11.99 | $0 | Apple Notes |
| Platforms | iOS, macOS, Windows, Android | iOS, macOS, Web | Notability |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Notability or Apple Notes?
Neither stands out: Notability: Yes, 5 free notes; Apple Notes: Yes, included with iCloud on Apple devices.
Should you pick Notability or Apple Notes?
Pick Notability if
- you want handwritten notes on Apple devices
- the free plan is enough (5 free notes)
Pick Apple Notes if
- you want free notes for Apple device owners
- the free plan is enough (included with iCloud on Apple devices)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Notability pricing | notability.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Apple Notes pricing | apple.com/icloud/ | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare