Notes · Ranked 1 of 9 in Best note-taking apps
What is Goodnotes?
Short answer
Goodnotes is a note-taking app from Goodnotes Limited, best for handwritten notes and PDF annotation. It has a free plan (3 files, 5 MB import); paid plans start at $11.99 / yr.
| Fact | Goodnotes | Notes median (8 tools) |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes, 3 files, 5 MB import | 8 of 9 have one |
| Entry price | $11.99 / yr | $2.50 / mo |
| Top plan | $120 / yr | $9 / mo |
| 1st year | $11.99 | $30.00 |
| Paid plans | 3 | 3 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Web | — |
What does Goodnotes do?
Goodnotes covers these jobs, as listed on Goodnotes Limited's pricing and feature pages.
- Handwriting and typed notes
- PDF import and annotation
- Audio recording
- Cross-device sync on Pro
- AI features
How much does Goodnotes cost?
Free, then $11.99 / yr to $120 / yr.
| Plan | Price | Billed monthly | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free | Free | Free | — |
| Essential | $11.99 / yr | — | — |
| Pro | $35.99 / yr | — | — |
| Teams | $120 / yr | — | — |
What are the best Goodnotes alternatives?
Closest on first-year cost: Notability, Google Keep, Apple Notes.
| Alternative | Free plan | From |
|---|---|---|
| Notability | Yes | $11.99 / yr |
| Google Keep | Yes | Free |
| Apple Notes | Yes | Free |
Is Goodnotes better than Notability?
Goodnotes is best for handwritten notes and PDF annotation; Notability for handwritten notes on Apple devices. First year: $11.99 vs $11.99.
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Goodnotes pricing | goodnotes.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare