Uncategorized
Goodnotes vs. Notability — Which iPad note-taking app is better?
Struggling to choose between Goodnotes and Notability? We compare features like PDF handling, templates, security, and AI tools to boost your digital planning workflow.
Introduction
As a digital planner designer, I’m obsessed with tools that elevate productivity. Goodnotes and Notability dominate the iPad note-taking space, but which reigns supreme for creators like us in 2025? Both apps integrate deeply with Apple Pencil and offer robust features – yet critical differences impact your planning, sticker kits, and PDF workflows.
✍️ Core Features Face-Off
- Writing Experience
Notability: Superior preset color palettes and smoother pen customization.
Goodnotes: Minimalist interface but handwriting feels less fluid.
Verdict: Notability wins aesthetics, but both handle writing/highlighting well. - Navigation & Scrolling
Notability: Seamless vertical scrolling (perfect for long journals).
Goodnotes: Page-flip only (ideal for planner templates).
Verdict: Pick based on your workflow – Notability for lectures, Goodnotes for structured planners.
📄 PDF & Document Mastery
Goodnotes Dominates PDFs
Auto-generates clickable PDF outlines (crucial for digital planners!).
Thumbnail + outline navigation saves hours.
Notability only offers basic thumbnails – no smart organization.
Notability’s Audio Edge
Voice recording syncs with notes (gold for meetings/classes).
Goodnotes lacks this entirely.
🔍 Search & Security
Search:
Goodnotes recognizes multilingual handwritten text
Notability searches typed text only.
Security:
Notability encrypts files with passwords (essential for client work).
Goodnotes misses this – a gap for sensitive content.
🎨 Design & Customization
Templates & Papers
Goodnotes: 50+ templates (music sheets, calendars, hex grids).
Notability: Fewer templates but richer background colors/patterns.
Tip for Creators: Goodnotes’ versatility makes it a sticker-designer favorite!
Multitasking
Goodnotes: Browser-like tabs for multiple open notes.
Notability: Single-note focus (limiting for research).
🏆 Final Verdict
Choose Goodnotes If:
You design PDF planners/stickers (outlines + templates = time saved).
Need multilingual search or tabbed multitasking.
Choose Notability If:
Audio recording or file encryption is non-negotiable.
Prefer endless scrolling and richer colors.
