Apple Notes vs Microsoft OneNote
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Simple notes, built into Apple devices.
Your digital notebook.
The verdict
Both Apple Notes and Microsoft OneNote are credible note taking tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Apple Notes — Simple notes, built into Apple devices.
Choose Microsoft OneNote if you'd rather have broader platform coverage. Your digital notebook.
Apple Notes vs Microsoft OneNote: side by side
| Dimension | Apple Notes | Microsoft OneNote |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Free | Free |
| Best for | Apple Users, Individuals | Students, Microsoft 365 Users |
| Platforms | Mac, Ios | Web, Windows, Mac, Ios, AndroidWinner |
| Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 |
Apple Notes key facts
- Vendor
- Apple
- Pricing
- Free — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Mac, Ios
- Best for
- Apple Users, Individuals
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2011
- Headquarters
- Cupertino, CA, USA
Microsoft OneNote key facts
- Vendor
- Microsoft
- Pricing
- Free — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Windows, Mac, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Students, Microsoft 365 Users
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2003
- Headquarters
- Redmond, WA, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is Apple Notes better than Microsoft OneNote?
Neither is universally better — Apple Notes edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Apple Notes or Microsoft OneNote cheaper?
Apple Notes is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. Apple Notes starts at free; Microsoft OneNote starts at free.
Can Apple Notes replace Microsoft OneNote?
Yes for most teams — both are note taking tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.