Best Evernote Alternatives in 2024

Evernote Alternatives: Notion vs. Obsidian vs. Roam Research - Which Note-Taking App is Right for You?

Evernote has been a mainstay in the note-taking world for years, but its limitations and evolving pricing structure have led many users to seek alternatives. In this article, we'll compare Evernote with three popular alternatives: Notion, Obsidian, and Roam Research. We'll delve into their key differences, pricing models, best use cases, and ultimately, help you decide which tool is the best fit for your needs.

1. Key Differences

Each of these applications takes a different approach to note-taking and knowledge management.

• Evernote: A classic, centralized note-taking app focused on capturing and organizing information. Its strengths lie in its user-friendly interface, robust web clipper, and powerful search capabilities, including OCR (Optical Character Recognition) for images. It's designed for linear note-taking and organization within notebooks and tags.

• Notion: An all-in-one workspace that extends far beyond simple note-taking. It combines note-taking with project management, database capabilities, and team collaboration features. Notion's block-based system allows for highly customizable page layouts and a flexible approach to organizing information.

• Obsidian: A powerful, locally stored knowledge base built on Markdown files. It emphasizes linking your thinking through bidirectional links and a graph view that visualizes the connections between your notes. Obsidian prioritizes privacy and offers extensive customization through plugins.

• Roam Research: A note-taking tool specifically designed for networked thought. It pioneered bidirectional linking and the daily notes workflow, encouraging users to explore the connections between their ideas and build a personal knowledge graph. Roam's strength lies in its ability to facilitate serendipitous discovery and non-linear thinking.

Here’s a table summarizing the key differences:

| Feature | Evernote | Notion | Obsidian | Roam Research | |-------------------|-----------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------| | Core Focus | Note-taking & Organization | All-in-one Workspace | Knowledge Base & Linking | Networked Thought & Discovery | | Data Storage | Cloud | Cloud | Local Markdown Files | Cloud | | Linking | Basic (limited internal linking) | Limited (page links) | Bidirectional Links | Bidirectional Links | | Customization | Limited (Templates) | High (Block-based system, databases) | High (Plugins, Themes) | Limited | | Collaboration | Good | Excellent | Limited (via shared folders/Git) | Good | | Project Management | Limited | Excellent (Databases, Kanban Boards) | Minimal | Minimal | | Offline Access | Partial (Premium feature) | Limited | Full | Limited | | Web Clipper | Excellent | Decent (via browser extensions) | Decent (via browser extensions) | Requires third-party tools |

2. Pricing Comparison

Understanding the pricing models is crucial for choosing the right tool.

• Evernote: Offers a freemium model with limited storage and features. Paid plans unlock more storage, offline access, and advanced features.

• Notion: Also uses a freemium model with generous free plan for personal use. Paid plans offer increased storage, guest access, and collaboration features.

• Obsidian: Free for personal use. Commercial use requires a Catalyst license. Obsidian is fundamentally free to use, which makes it extremely attractive.

• Roam Research: A fully paid subscription model. This makes it the most expensive option, but proponents argue that its unique features justify the cost. Roam Brain is aimed at students and offers a significantly reduced price point.

Pricing Summary:

• Most Affordable: Obsidian (free for personal use).
• Generous Free Plan: Notion.
• Mid-Range: Evernote (paid plans for full functionality).
• Most Expensive: Roam Research.

3. Best Use Cases

Each app shines in different scenarios.

• Evernote: Best for general note-taking, web clipping, and organizing information for easy retrieval. Ideal for students, researchers, and anyone who needs a simple, reliable note-taking app.

• Notion: Best for project management, team collaboration, building wikis, and creating customized workspaces. Perfect for startups, small businesses, and individuals who want an all-in-one solution for managing their work and personal lives.

• Obsidian: Best for building a personal knowledge base, connecting ideas, and long-term writing projects. Ideal for researchers, writers, and anyone who values privacy and wants to own their data. A great tool for Zettelkasten methodology.

• Roam Research: Best for exploring complex ideas, facilitating serendipitous discovery, and building a network of connected thoughts. Ideal for writers, researchers, and anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of a subject through non-linear thinking.

4. Who Should Use Which Tool?

• Choose Evernote if: You need a straightforward note-taking app with excellent web clipping and search capabilities, and you are already familiar with its classic approach.

• Choose Notion if: You want an all-in-one workspace for notes, project management, and collaboration, and you appreciate its flexible, block-based system.

• Choose Obsidian if: You value privacy, want to own your data, and are interested in building a personal knowledge base with bidirectional links. A technical background may be helpful.

• Choose Roam Research if: You're fascinated by networked thought and are willing to invest in a tool that encourages non-linear thinking and serendipitous discovery, and you are willing to pay a premium for it.