№002App · Note-taking apps
Obsidian
Free, local-first Markdown notes you will always own.
Score 8.5 out of 10Free · Sync $4/mo
Best tools for focus and deep work
Software that removes friction and hardware that removes noise — the setup for long stretches of uninterrupted work.
Top picks: Obsidian (App, 8.5/10); Sony WH-1000XM6 (Device, 8.4/10); BOOX Note Air5 C (Device, 8.3/10).
This guide mixes apps and devices. Each product still belongs to its own category: apps sit in app guides, devices in device guides. Use Compare to put any two side by side.
Apps
3
Devices
5№019Device · Recorders & headphones
Sony WH-1000XM6
Flagship noise-cancelling headphones for deep work.
Score 8.4 out of 10$449.99 (launch)
№013Device · E-ink tablets
BOOX Note Air5 C
A color e-ink tablet that runs Android apps.
Score 8.3 out of 10$499.99
№017Device · Desk lighting
BenQ ScreenBar Halo 2
A monitor light bar that lights your desk and the wall behind it.
Score 7.8 out of 10$179.99 (launch)
№011Device · E-ink tablets
reMarkable Paper Pro
A large color e-paper notebook with a reading light.
Score 7.5 out of 10$629
№012Device · E-ink tablets
Kindle Scribe (2025)
A big-screen Kindle that doubles as a simple notebook.
Score 7.4 out of 10$499.99 (launch)