Best Note-Taking Apps for iPad Pro and Apple Pencil
When it comes to choosing a note-taking app for the iPad Pro paired with the Apple Pencil, your decision should be based on specific needs and preferences. Here are some top contenders that cater to students, professionals, and creative minds.
Notability
Features: Combines handwriting, typing, and audio recording. Offers organization through folders and subjects.
Pros: Great for students and professionals. Easy to annotate PDFs.
Cons: Requires a one-time purchase.
Why Notability Stands Out
Notability excels in providing a comprehensive and user-friendly experience. Its ability to integrate handwriting, typing, and audio recording makes it a versatile tool for note-taking. The app's organizational features, such as folders and subjects, are particularly useful for students and professionals who need to keep their notes well-structured.
GoodNotes
Features: Focuses on handwriting with a natural feel. Supports PDF annotation and has a powerful search feature.
Pros: Excellent organization with customizable folders and templates.
Cons: Also requires a one-time purchase.
What Makes GoodNotes Special?
GoodNotes is known for its focus on a natural handwriting feel, which makes it highly intuitive for users. Its powerful search feature and customizable folders and templates make it an ideal choice for those who prioritize organization. The app is particularly useful for professionals who need to annotate PDFs and manage multiple projects efficiently.
Microsoft OneNote
Features: Offers a freeform canvas for notes, supports typing and handwriting, and integrates well with other Microsoft Office apps.
Pros: Free to use with a Microsoft account, good for collaboration.
Cons: Interface can be less intuitive for some users.
Why Microsoft OneNote is a Good Option
Microsoft OneNote is a solid choice for those already using Microsoft Office. Its freeform canvas and support for typing and handwriting make it perfect for detailed notes. The integration with other Microsoft apps and its collaborative features make it a valuable tool for team projects. However, the interface might require some adjustment for new users.
Apple Notes
Features: Built-in app that supports handwriting, drawing, and sketching. Syncs across all Apple devices.
Pros: Free and easy to use, integrates seamlessly with the Apple ecosystem.
Cons: Less feature-rich compared to dedicated apps like Notability or GoodNotes.
Apple Notes: A Convenient Choice
Apple Notes is an integrated app that leverages the Apple Ecosystem, making it a convenient choice for iPad users. Its support for handwriting, drawing, and sketching ensures that creative individuals can easily capture ideas. While Apple Notes is user-friendly and free, it lacks some of the advanced features offered by dedicated apps like Notability and GoodNotes.
Evernote
Features: Excellent for organization and syncing across devices. Supports text, images, and handwriting.
Pros: Powerful search capabilities and cross-platform support.
Cons: The free version has limitations. Premium features require a subscription.
Evernote's Strengths
Evernote is a powerful tool for those who value organization and cross-platform support. Its search capabilities and ability to sync notes across multiple devices make it a versatile choice. However, the free version is limited, and premium features require a subscription. The app is particularly useful for businesses and individuals who need to keep track of multiple projects and their details.
Squid
Features: Designed for handwritten notes with a focus on simplicity. Allows for easy importing of PDFs.
Pros: Good for users who prefer a straightforward interface.
Cons: Limited features compared to other apps.
Squid: A Simple and User-Friendly Option
Squid is a straightforward app that focuses on handwritten notes. Its simplicity makes it easy to use for those who prefer a minimalistic approach. The ability to import PDFs is a handy feature for users who frequently need to take notes based on existing documents. However, Squid's limited feature set might not be sufficient for users who require more advanced functionalities.
Conclusion
While Notability and GoodNotes are often considered the best for their balance of functionality and user experience, especially for handwriting with the Apple Pencil, it's worth trying out a few different apps to see which one fits your workflow best. Each app has its strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.