10 Best Note Taking Apps for iPad to Supercharge Productivity

I've spent countless hours exploring the vast landscape of note-taking apps available. Over time, I've come to realize that finding the perfect app is more than just a matter of features—it's about discovering a tool that seamlessly integrates into your workflow and enhances your productivity.

In this article, we'll explore a diverse range of options, each bringing its own unique strengths to the table. From seamlessly integrated ecosystem apps to feature-rich powerhouses, and from handwriting-focused tools to collaborative platforms, we'll cover a wide spectrum of solutions catering to different needs and preferences.

Whether you're a student looking to organize lecture notes, a professional managing complex projects, or a creative mind capturing inspiration on the go, I hope my insights will help you find the perfect digital companion for your note-taking needs. Let's dive in and discover which app might be the best fit for your iPad note-taking journey, exploring the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.

Best note taking apps for iPad at a glance

This table compares ten of the best note-taking apps available for iPad users. It provides a quick overview of each app's pricing model, App Store rating and standout features.

NotePlan

• Pricing: 7 Day Free Trial. Paid plan available at $9.99 monthly
• App Store Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Imagine a note-taking app that doesn't just capture your ideas but seamlessly integrates them with your tasks and calendar, creating a single, powerful command center for your life.

Designed for iPad users who crave efficiency and organization, NotePlan empowers you to plan your day, manage tasks, and build a personal knowledge base, all within a beautiful and intuitive interface.

With NotePlan, your creativity knows no bounds. Draw and handwrite notes directly on your iPad, and watch NotePlan's AI magically convert your handwriting into text. This seamless integration of text and visuals makes capturing ideas, brainstorming, and creating visual notes a breeze.

Why choose NotePlan as note-taking app for iPad

• Effortless drawing and handwriting: Draw diagrams, sketch ideas, or jot down thoughts in your own handwriting. The AI-powered handwriting recognition transforms your scribbles into searchable text, merging the best of both worlds.
• Built-in Calendar: Your notes and schedule work seamlessly together in NotePlan. View past events, plan future tasks, or time-block your day directly within the app, minimizing distractions.
• Task Management: NotePlan doubles as a capable task manager. You can build to-do lists, track progress, and set deadlines, all within your notes. Its adaptability fits popular systems like GTD or PARA.
• Markdown Support: NotePlan uses Markdown, a simple language for creating beautifully formatted notes. Easily add headings, lists, links, and more for clear and organized notes.
• Connected Notes: NotePlan's backlinking lets you connect related ideas, references, and projects. This fosters a dynamic knowledge base that evolves alongside your thoughts.
• Open & Accessible: Your notes are saved in plain text files, making them accessible on any device and importable to other apps. This guarantees data portability and longevity.
• Personalized Experience: NotePlan offers various customization options. Choose themes, personalize colors, adjust typography, and even create custom Markdown styles to match your preferences.

Apple Notes

• Pricing: Free with apple account
• App Store Rating: 4.9 out of 5

Apple Notes offers a streamlined note-taking solution for iPad users deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem.

Its clean interface and focus on simplicity make it easy to quickly jot down your thoughts and ideas, whether through typing or handwriting with the Apple Pencil.

With features like iCloud syncing, Smart Folders for automated organization, and seamless integration with other Apple apps, Apple Notes can be a convenient hub for your digital notes.  

Pros of Apple Notes for iPad

• Free and readily available on all Apple devices
• Syncs seamlessly across the Apple ecosystem
• Simple and easy-to-use interface for beginners
• Offers various organizational tools like folders and tags
• Powerful search function that can recognize handwriting and text in images
• Easy sharing and real-time collaboration with other Apple users
• Quick note creation from any screen, including the lock screen
• Automatically recognizes dates, addresses, and other data for quick actions
• Provides password protection for sensitive notes
• Supports split-screen and slide-over views for multitasking
• Offers a natural writing experience with Apple Pencil
• Receives regular updates with new features and improvements

Cons of Apple Notes for iPad

• Limited formatting options compared to other apps
• Handwritten and typed text can't be easily integrated
• PDF annotation is not as intuitive or feature-rich
• Exporting notes can result in blurry images and poor formatting
• Backups are limited to iCloud, not other cloud services
• Lacks advanced features like mind maps and audio recording
• Uses raster ink that can appear pixelated when zoomed in
• No option for custom note templates

Notability

• Pricing: Free Plan. Paid plan available for $4.99/month
• App Store Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Notability presents a compelling note-taking experience for iPad users, offering a versatile platform to capture your thoughts and ideas digitally.

With its intuitive interface and support for both handwriting and typing, Notability allows you to seamlessly blend text, images, and even audio recordings within your notes.

The app's ability to annotate PDFs, import documents, and organize your notes in various ways makes it an invaluable tool for students, professionals, and anyone who relies on efficient note-taking.

Pros

• Handwriting and drawing are smooth and natural, perfect for the Apple Pencil
• Combines handwriting, typing, images, and audio recordings in one note
• Organize your notes with multiple subjects and dividers
• Record lectures or meetings and sync the audio with your notes
• Annotate PDFs directly within the app

Cons

• It's a paid app, unlike some free options
• It may take some time to learn all its features
• Collaboration features are limited compared to other apps

GoodNotes

• Pricing: Free Plan available. Paid plan starting from $9.99/month
• App Store Rating: 4.8 out of 5

GoodNotes presents a powerful and versatile note-taking solution on iPad, catering to a wide range of users.

Its impressive digital ink technology provides a remarkably natural handwriting experience, replicating the feel of pen on paper.

With a wealth of customizable options for pens, paper styles, and templates, GoodNotes allows you to create visually appealing and highly personalized notes.

Features like PDF annotation, audio recording, and seamless integration with iCloud make it an attractive choice for students, professionals, and creatives alike.

Pros

• Feels like a real notebook with customizable covers and paper templates
• Infinitely nested folders for exceptional organization
• Powerful search function, including handwriting recognition
• Collaboration features for real-time co-editing
• Study Sets and flashcards for effective learning
• Unique features like the Elements Tool for easy image/sticker duplication
• Presentation mode for sharing notes directly from the app

Cons

• Pricey, especially with the recent shift to a subscription model
• Note creation workflow can feel a bit rigid and less spontaneous
• Handwriting to text conversion is a cumbersome two-step process
• AI features are still experimental and not fully developed
• No option to customize the toolbar in the free version
• Lacks certain advanced features seen in other apps, like audio transcription or true multi-note view

Microsoft OneNote

• Pricing: OneNote is available with a paid subscription of Microsoft 365.
• App Store Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Microsoft OneNote offers a versatile note-taking platform for iPad users, seamlessly integrating into the Microsoft ecosystem.

Its familiar notebook-like structure, divided into sections and pages, provides a comfortable and organized workspace for your notes.

OneNote supports a blend of typing, handwriting, and even drawing, allowing you to capture your thoughts and ideas in various ways.

Features like seamless integration with other Microsoft Office apps, cloud synchronization through OneDrive, and collaborative features for real-time editing make it a practical tool for both personal and professional use.

Pros

• Free to use with generous storage even on the free plan
• Familiar interface, similar to other Microsoft Office apps
• Flexible note organization with notebooks, sections, and pages
• "Infinite canvas" style allows freeform note-taking with text, handwriting, drawings, images, etc. placed anywhere
• Robust tagging and search capabilities
• Seamless integration with other Microsoft tools (Outlook, Teams, etc.)
• Works across various platforms with reliable cloud sync

Cons

• Can feel cluttered and overwhelming, especially for beginners
• Limited offline functionality can be a problem in areas with spotty internet
• PDF annotation is basic, lacking features like highlighting and underlining
• Interface isn't as modern or visually appealing as some competitors

Nebo

• Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plan available at $4.99 one time purchase
• App Store Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Nebo stands out as a note-taking app designed specifically for iPad users who prioritize handwriting with the Apple Pencil.

Its advanced handwriting recognition and AI-powered conversion tools seamlessly transform your handwritten notes into editable, searchable text.

With an intuitive interface and features like interactive diagrams, mathematical equations, and seamless integration with other apps, Nebo caters to students, professionals, and creatives who value the fluidity of handwritten notes without sacrificing organization and searchability.  

Pros

• Exceptional handwriting recognition with interactive ink technology
• Converts handwritten notes to editable text accurately, including math equations and diagrams
• Supports various pen styles and colors, offering a customizable writing experience
• PDF annotation with robust markup tools and interactive elements
• Multi-platform compatibility allows syncing across devices
• Freeform note-taking with an infinite canvas for flexible note creation
• Recently updated with AI-powered features like summaries and ChatGPT-style questions

Cons

• Limited organization features compared to some dedicated note-taking apps
• Multi-device syncing requires a paid upgrade
• Fewer note customization options and templates compared to some competitors
• PDF annotation lacks advanced features like highlighting and underlining

Noteshelf

• Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plan available at $9.99 one time purchase
• App Store Rating: 3.8 out of 5

Noteshelf provides a well-rounded note-taking experience for iPad users, balancing intuitive features with powerful functionality.

Its natural handwriting tools and customizable pens and highlighters create a pleasant and familiar writing experience akin to pen and paper.

With the ability to annotate PDFs, record audio, and even create visual journals, Noteshelf caters to a broad range of note-taking styles. Its integration with cloud services, including iCloud and Evernote, ensures seamless access across devices.

Pros

• Feels like a real notebook experience with customizable covers and templates
• Advanced organization with categories, groups, subgroups, tags, and bookmarks
• Powerful search function, including OCR for handwritten notes and imported PDFs
• Wide range of customizable pen, highlighter, and eraser tools
• Built-in audio recording with variable playback speeds
• Seamless PDF annotation and ability to import various document types
• Integration with cloud storage services and Evernote for backup and syncing
• Noteshelf AI offers useful features like summarization and question generation
• Presentation mode for sharing notes on an external display
• Cross-platform compatibility with iOS, Android, and Windows

Cons

• Lacks audio syncing with handwritten notes, as seen in Notability
• Can be challenging to merge or combine notes due to its notebook-centric structure
• Text resizing can lead to blurry or pixelated results
• PDF annotation tools are not as advanced as some competitors
• Cross-platform syncing can be unreliable and slow

Bear

• Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plan available then $2.99/month
• App Store Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Bear offers a distinct note-taking experience on iPad, appealing to users who appreciate a blend of minimalist aesthetics and powerful features.

Its clean interface and focus on Markdown formatting facilitate distraction-free writing and effortless organization through tags and linking.

Bear's cross-platform synchronization, extensive export options, and focus mode further enhance its appeal for those seeking a versatile and customizable note-taking solution.  

Pros

• Clean, minimalist interface that fosters focus and distraction-free writing
• Seamless Markdown support for easy formatting and flexibility
• Beautiful themes and typography customization for personalization
• Powerful organization with hierarchical tagging and nested tags
• Cross-note linking for connecting ideas and creating a knowledge base
• Excellent support for exporting notes in various formats
• Focus mode for distraction-free writing
• Encryption for enhanced privacy and security
• Works seamlessly across Apple devices with iCloud sync

Cons

• Limited support for handwriting and drawing
• No dedicated PDF annotation features
• Subscription-based pricing model
• Collaboration features are limited to sharing individual notes
• Lacks advanced features like audio recording and OCR search in the free version

CollaNote

• Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plan available at $11.90 one time purchase
• App Store Rating: 4.8 out of 5

CollaNote presents a compelling free note-taking option on the iPad, particularly appealing to users seeking a feature-rich yet budget-friendly solution.

Its robust toolkit includes diverse pen and brush options, handwriting stabilization, and a plethora of paper templates and customizable options for a personalized note-taking experience.

With features like PDF annotation, audio recording, and even a whiteboard function for collaboration, CollaNote strives to be an all-in-one solution for students, professionals, and creatives.

Pros:

• Completely free with no limitations on features or number of notebooks
• Smooth and responsive handwriting experience with minimal lag
• Unique curve tool for creating smooth and complex diagrams
• Customizable color palettes and unlimited color options
• Real-time collaboration with unlimited participants
• Built-in web browser for quick research and referencing within notes
• OCR (Optical Character Recognition) for searching handwritten notes
• Dark mode support for comfortable viewing in low-light conditions

Cons:

• Can be buggy and unstable, with occasional crashes or freezes
• Limited PDF annotation features, mainly for highlighting and underlining
• Organization system relies on the Files app, which can be less intuitive for some
• Lacks advanced features like audio recording and conversion to text
• No cloud syncing or backup options within the app itself
• Interface design is not as polished or user-friendly as some paid options

ZoomNotes

• Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plan available at $7.99 one time purchase
• App Store Rating: 4.5 out of 5

ZoomNotes offers a unique and powerful note-taking experience for iPad users, especially those who gravitate towards visual and freeform thinking.

Its distinctive feature is its unparalleled zoom capability, allowing you to infinitely expand your digital canvas, perfect for mind maps, diagrams, and expansive note-taking sessions.

The app's intuitive sub-page feature lets you embed additional content, like PDF files or linked notes, within your main document, providing flexibility and organization.

With a variety of pen types, customizable paper styles, and features like handwriting recognition, PDF annotation, and audio recording, ZoomNotes caters to a wide array of note-taking needs.  

Pros

• Infinite canvas with unparalleled zoom range for maximum flexibility and visual note-taking
• Sub-pages within pages for additional layers of organization and detail
• Linked sound recording for attaching audio to specific parts of your notes
• Customizable paper sizes and styles for personalized notebooks
• Multiple pen types and unlimited color options for expressive note-taking
• Bookmarks and animation for creating interactive presentations
• Integration with Apple Calendar and Reminders for task management
• Cross-platform compatibility with iOS and macOS devices

Cons

• User interface can be clunky and less intuitive compared to some competitors
• Limited PDF annotation features, mainly focusing on writing over PDFs
• Can be overwhelming to learn due to the vast number of features
• Free version lacks many essential tools, requiring a paid upgrade
• Pages can feel unstable on the canvas, hindering the writing experience
• No real-time collaboration features

Conclusion

The world of note-taking apps for iPad offers a diverse range of tools to suit every user's needs and preferences. From the simplicity of Apple Notes to the feature-rich environments of NotePlan, there's an app for every style of note-taker.

When choosing the best note-taking app for your iPad, consider your specific requirements. Do you need robust organization tools? Is handwriting recognition a priority? Perhaps you're looking for seamless integration with other productivity apps. By evaluating your needs against the features offered, you can find the perfect digital companion to capture your ideas, manage your tasks, and boost your productivity.