The Notes App Dilemma
Choosing a notes app sounds simple, but the right pick can transform how you capture ideas, manage tasks, and build knowledge over time. Google Keep, Apple Notes, and Obsidian sit at very different ends of the spectrum. This comparison breaks down exactly what each one offers so you can make an informed choice.
At a Glance
| Feature | Google Keep | Apple Notes | Obsidian |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free (Apple devices) | Free / $8–$10/month for sync |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Web | Apple only | iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, Linux |
| Offline access | Limited | Yes | Full (local files) |
| Markdown support | No | Basic | Full |
| Linking notes | No | No | Yes (bi-directional) |
| Best for | Quick captures | Everyday Apple users | Power users & researchers |
Google Keep
Google Keep is purpose-built for speed. Open it, type or dictate a note, add a colour label, and you're done. It shines for grocery lists, quick reminders, and colour-coded snippets of information. The integration with Google Workspace means notes can flow into Google Docs easily.
Best for: Anyone who wants frictionless, fast note capture across Android and iOS. Not suitable for long-form writing or complex organisation.
Apple Notes
Apple Notes has quietly grown into a genuinely capable app. It now supports checklists, tables, sketches, document scanning, tags, and smart folders. It syncs seamlessly across all Apple devices via iCloud and works offline without any configuration.
Best for: iPhone and Mac users who want a reliable, built-in solution that requires zero setup. The catch: it's Apple-only, so cross-platform users are out of luck.
Obsidian
Obsidian is in a different league. It stores all your notes as plain Markdown files on your device, meaning you own your data completely. Its standout feature is bi-directional linking — you can connect notes to build a personal knowledge graph. A vast plugin ecosystem extends it into a task manager, journaling tool, or research database.
Best for: Writers, researchers, developers, and anyone who wants to build a long-term knowledge base. The learning curve is steep, and sync requires a paid add-on or a third-party service like iCloud or Dropbox.
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Google Keep if you primarily need quick captures and reminders, use multiple platforms, and live inside the Google ecosystem.
- Choose Apple Notes if you're fully in the Apple ecosystem and want a polished, zero-effort experience with no extra cost.
- Choose Obsidian if you're serious about building a personal knowledge system, comfortable with Markdown, and want full ownership of your data.
The Bottom Line
There's no universally "best" notes app — it depends entirely on your habits and goals. Start with the simplest option that meets your needs, and only move to a more powerful tool if you find yourself hitting the limits of what you currently use.