Apple Notes vs Standard Notes
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Simple notes, built into Apple devices.
Encrypted notes app focused on longevity and privacy.
The verdict
Both Apple Notes and Standard Notes are credible note taking tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Apple Notes — Simple notes, built into Apple devices.
Choose Standard Notes if you'd rather have broader platform coverage. Encrypted notes app focused on longevity and privacy.
Apple Notes vs Standard Notes: side by side
| Dimension | Apple Notes | Standard Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free | Free – $90/user/yr |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Free | Freemium |
| Best for | Apple Users, Individuals | Privacy Conscious Users, Writers |
| Platforms | Mac, Ios | Web, Mac, Windows, Linux, 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
Standard Notes key facts
- Vendor
- Standard Notes
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $90/user/yr
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Mac, Windows, Linux, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Privacy Conscious Users, Writers
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2017
- Headquarters
- Canada
Frequently asked questions
Is Apple Notes better than Standard Notes?
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 Standard Notes cheaper?
Apple Notes is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. Apple Notes starts at free; Standard Notes starts at free – $90/user/yr.
Can Apple Notes replace Standard Notes?
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.