Notes · Head to head
Obsidian vs Microsoft OneNote: which is better?
Short answer
Obsidian costs less in the first year ($48 vs $119.88). Pick Obsidian for local-first Markdown notes with plugins; pick Microsoft OneNote for Microsoft 365 users who want notebooks.
| Fact | Obsidian | Microsoft OneNote | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Local-first Markdown notes with plugins | Microsoft 365 users who want notebooks | — |
| Free plan | Yes, app free; sync and publish are paid add-ons | No, 30-day trial | Obsidian |
| Entry plan | Sync Standard: $4 / mo | Microsoft 365 Personal: $9.99 / mo | Obsidian |
| Mid plan | Sync Plus: $8 / mo | Microsoft 365 Family: $12.99 / mo | Obsidian |
| Top plan | Publish: $8 / mo | Microsoft 365 Premium: $19.99 / mo | Obsidian |
| 1st year | $48 | $119.88 | Obsidian |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Web, iOS, Android | Obsidian |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which is cheaper, Obsidian or Microsoft OneNote?
Obsidian costs less in the first year ($48 vs $119.88).
| 1st year | Obsidian | Microsoft OneNote |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $48 | $119.88 |
| Mid | $96 | $155.88 |
| Top | $96 | $239.88 |
Which has the better free plan, Obsidian or Microsoft OneNote?
Obsidian: Yes, app free; sync and publish are paid add-ons.
Should you pick Obsidian or Microsoft OneNote?
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)
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Obsidian pricing | obsidian.md/pricing | 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