№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 taking notes
Typing, handwriting or recording — the notes apps and paper-like tablets we rate highest, side by side.
Top picks: Obsidian (App, 8.5/10); BOOX Note Air5 C (Device, 8.3/10); Granola (App, 8.2/10).
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
4№008App · Note-taking apps
Granola
AI meeting notes from your own computer audio — no bot joins the call.
Score 8.2 out of 10Free · $14/user/mo
№010App · Launchers & writing apps
iA Writer
A distraction-free Markdown editor you buy once.
Score 8.1 out of 10$29.99–$49.99 once
№001App · Note-taking apps
Notion
Docs, wikis, databases, a calendar and AI agents in one shared workspace.
Score 8.0 out of 10Free · Plus $10/mo
Devices
4№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
№014Device · Recorders & headphones
Plaud Note Pro
A card-thin AI recorder for in-person meetings and calls.
Score 8.0 out of 10$189
№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)