26 Best Note Taking Apps for iPad (Free & Paid)

Finding the best note-taking apps for iPad can significantly enhance productivity, creativity, and organization – especially with the use of the Apple Pencil or a third party stylus pen.

This blog post will cover a variety of exceptional apps on the iPad that are designed to meet different user workflows. Some even provide handwriting options for better retention.

• Notability features audio sync, Pencil, and Math conversion and allows for iCloud sync and top tier note organization.
• Apps like GoodNotes excel in organization and handwriting recognition, and converting handwriting to text.
• Apps like OneNote, Evernote, and Apple Notes, are aimed at typed notes and have cross-compatibility – but typically not the handwriting and organization features most iPad users seek out.

There are 25+ different apps we’ve tested (we’re big into note-taking). Many don’t know that iPad has separate apps for typed notes and handwritten note-taking.

The biggest debate is between GoodNotes and Notability – these are the two apps that are most commonly sought after for the premium note taking experience.

This is because they have the most advanced technologies embedded in the apps (like audio note taking)

Also see: How to take Notes on iPad (Multiple methods & systems for better note-taking)

By exploring the apps in this list, users can ultimately discover a powerful combination of technology and customization that brings their note-taking on iPad experience to the next level.

Keep in mind: There are a Variety of Note-Taking Apps on iPad

There is a wide range of note-taking apps available on the iPad, each offering distinct features and capabilities.

Examples of premium Note taking apps that works well for sketching and note taking are: NoteLedge, NoteShelf, GoodNotes, and Notability.

Here’s the three different types:

• Note taking apps on iPad for Typed notes: These work best if you’re a writer, professional, researcher, or someone who doesn’t need visual notes and scribbling (example: Apple Notes)
• iPad apps for taking handwritten notes: These apps are ideal for students, creatives, or anyone that prefers to jot down handwritten notes and drawings in combination with typing (Example: Notability and it’s alternatives)
• iPad apps that are compatible with Apple Pencil: Most of the apps that have OCR and space for drawing will let you use the apple pencil. You can typically convert handwriting to text on iPad this way.

There are also options for multimedia note-taking, including images, audio recordings, and more. The key is to find the one that best suits your personal or professional workflow.

… or skip to this section if you need to see the best apps for typed notes on iPad (If you have no need to draw or sketch)

Some apps focus on specific functionality, such as PDF annotation, sketching, or mind mapping, while others prioritize overall organization and structure.

Most importantly, a variety of apps are compatible with Apple Pencil, providing a seamless and versatile experience when it comes to note-taking. Side note: To make the most of these apps, users should consider factors like ease of use, multi-device compatibility, pricing options, and cloud synchronization.

Top Note-Taking Apps for iPad

Several note-taking apps on the iPad stand out as top choices, offering a balance of powerful features and ease of use. Some of the most popular options include Notability, GoodNotes 5, and Apple Notes.

Notability is known for its audio recording feature, handwriting recognition, and multi-note support, among others. GoodNotes 5 offers a comprehensive organizational system, robust searching capabilities, and customizable templates.

Apple Notes, as a native app for all Apple devices, has evolved over the years to include features such as Quick Note and seamless compatibility with Apple Pencil. One advantage of these apps is their compatibility with third-party accessories like Paperlike, which enhances the writing experience by giving the screen a more paper-like feel.

Let’s dive into our top picks:

Best Note-taking Apps for typing your notes

These note taking apps will focus on typed notes, so with these apps, you can learn how to take notes on iPad without an apple pencil. I’ll be discussing apps for taking handwritten notes later in this section.

Let’s dive into the Top Note-taking Apps for Typed Notes:

1. Apple Notes

Apple Notes has long been a trusted companion in the note-taking world. Its tight integration with iOS and macOS makes it a convenient and natural choice for Apple enthusiasts. The app offers a clean interface with a customizable toolbar that lets you access essential tools efficiently.

Also see: 28 Best Mac Note-Taking Apps for Advanced Workflows

One of my favorite features of Apple Notes is the Quick Notes functionality. It allows you to jot down a note quickly without disrupting your current app or task. Furthermore, the app offers solid organizational features, including folders, subfolders, and note pinning. Apple Notes also supports handwriting with the Apple Pencil, making it a versatile option for all users.

See the Best iPad for note taking

However, Apple Notes has its drawbacks. It lacks some advanced features, such as audio recording and integrated editing of imported files. Moreover, compared to other note-taking apps, it doesn’t offer extensive organizational flexibility I needed, making it challenging to manage the type of of notes I keep.

2. Obsidian

Obsidian is a relatively new and powerful note-taking app that places a strong emphasis on connecting your thoughts and ideas through a unique graph view. As someone who loves to visualize connections, I’ve found Obsidian particularly useful when working on complex projects or research.

The app’s markdown editor and backlinking capabilities allow for the creation of a well-organized knowledge base, and its robust plugin system enables customization to suit individual needs. You can also leverage the power of community-developed plugins, themes, and templates to enhance your workflow further.

However, Obsidian comes with some caveats. There’s a learning curve to understanding and utilizing all of its features. Despite these limitations, Obsidian is a powerful option for those seeking a more advanced note-taking tool.

3. Google Keep

As a long-time Google user, I’ve always appreciated the simplicity and minimalism of Google Keep. Its easy-to-use interface, coupled with its synchronization across devices using a single Google account, make it an excellent app for quick note-taking, checklists, and reminders.

Google Keep supports color-coding and tagging, which can serve as a means of organization. The app also has a web clipper, allowing you to save snippets from articles or web pages directly to your notes.

We also cover the Top Note Taking Tablets, as the google pixel, samsung galaxy, and iPad models.

However, Google Keep falls short for more advanced note-taking purposes. Its organizational capabilities are somewhat limited for creatives, and it doesn’t support handwriting recognition or extensive formatting options.

If you’re searching for a feature-rich note-taking app, there is a lot of competition.

4. Bear Notes

Bear Notes is a beautifully designed app that offers a balance between simplicity and advanced note-taking features. Its clean interface, combined with intuitive organization through tags and sub-tags, allows for efficient note management.

As a writer, I particularly appreciate the app’s Markdown support, which makes formatting text quick and easy. Bear Notes also syncs across devices using iCloud, ensuring your notes are always available.

One disadvantage of Bear Notes is the subscription-based pricing model, which may deter some potential users. Additionally, it’s currently only available on iOS and macOS, making it less accessible to users on other platforms.

5. Craft Docs

Craft Docs is a modern note-taking app designed for collaboration and beautifully formatted notes. Its sleek, minimalist interface makes it a joy to work with, and the ability to create sub-pages and link between notes allows for easy organization.

As someone who frequently works in teams, the real-time collaboration feature in Craft Docs has been immensely helpful. The app also offers rich media support, including images, videos, and code snippets. It even supports embedding web pages and interactive components.

The main downside of Craft Docs is its subscription pricing model. Although there’s a free version with limited features, those looking to utilize its full potential will need to pay a monthly fee.

6. Ulysses

Ulysses is a powerful and comprehensive writing app that offers a focused and distraction-free environment. Its clean, customizable interface and Markdown support make it an excellent choice for writing projects, from short notes to lengthy manuscripts.

As a novelist, I love the organizational possibilities that Ulysses offers, with a library of sheets, groups, and filters that can be organized into nested hierarchies. The app also supports various export formats, including PDF, ePub, and docx, making it versatile for different publishing needs.

However, Ulysses comes at a premium price, with a subscription-based model that may be off-putting for some users. Additionally, it doesn’t support handwriting or drawing, making it less suitable for those who prefer to write with a stylus.

7. Microsoft OneNote

Microsoft OneNote is a robust note-taking app that seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft products and offers extensive customization options for notes. The app supports infinite canvas size, allowing users to write or draw without constraints.

Based on my experience, OneNote is particularly useful for organizing complex projects or research materials, thanks to its notebook, section, and page structure. The app also supports audio and video recording, making it a versatile choice for a variety of note-taking purposes.

One of the primary disadvantages of OneNote is its inefficiency when using it for handwriting. The app’s writing tools and functionality feel less smooth compared to dedicated handwriting apps like GoodNotes or Notability. Additionally, the organization structure can be overwhelming, especially for those who prefer simpler note-taking apps.

Best Note-Taking Apps for iPad for handwritten notes (Visual notes)

Let’s take a look at the Top Note-taking Apps for handwritten Notes:

1. GoodNotes: Overall Best Note Taking app on iPad (Balanced PIck)

GoodNotes 5 offers a comprehensive note-taking experience for those who prefer handwriting their notes on an iPad. Its user-friendly interface, combined with an extensive collection of organizational tools, makes it a favorite among note-takers.

See: Tutorial: How to Use GoodNotes to Take Great Notes (Beginners & Pros)

The app provides various paper styles, and users can create unlimited notebooks with customizable covers. GoodNotes 5 also supports importing and annotating PDFs, which is beneficial for studying or research purposes.

One downside to GoodNotes 5, however, is that the text conversion process can be somewhat tedious, especially if you have messy handwriting. Additionally, some users find the lack of a favorites toolbar inconvenient.

Personally, I find the organization features and search functions invaluable, as they make it easy to locate specific information within my notes. The app’s ability to sync across devices also ensures I always have access to my notes, regardless of the device I’m using.

2. Notability: Best Note taking app for those who need advanced features

Notability’s standout feature is its audio syncing capabilities, which allow you to record lectures or meetings while taking notes simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for students and professionals who need to review the audio while studying their notes. The app also offers a variety of tools for sketching, highlighting, and adding images, making it ideal for visual note-takers.

Also see: Notability alternatives: most comparable (Free and Paid)

However, Notability has limited iCloud syncing, and its organizational tools may not be as robust as those found in other apps like GoodNotes 5. This limitation can be a drawback for users who prefer a more structured approach to organizing their notes.

In my personal experience, I enjoy using Notability for its sketching tools and the ability to add images to my notes easily. These features help me create visually appealing and engaging notes that cater to my learning style.

3. NoteLedge

NoteLedge is an excellent choice for visual note-takers, offering a wide range of drawing tools and multimedia options. With features such as the ability to add photos, videos, and audio recordings, NoteLedge enables users to create engaging and interactive notes that go beyond traditional text-based content. The app also supports importing and annotating PDFs, making it a versatile tool for studying and research purposes.

One disadvantage of NoteLedge is its less intuitive organizational system, which may be confusing for users who are accustomed to more traditional folder-based organization tools. Additionally, the app’s interface may feel cluttered to some due to the abundance of features.

As a creative individual, I love the flexibility NoteLedge offers in incorporating various media formats into my notes. This feature allows me to express my ideas more effectively and create visually appealing notes that cater to my learning style.

4. Noteshelf

Noteshelf is a versatile note-taking app that offers a balance of handwriting recognition, audio recording, and PDF organization features. With customizable note templates, pressure-sensitive drawing tools, and support for a wide range of styluses, Noteshelf is well-suited for users with diverse note-taking needs.

However, the app has a price tag and offers limited export options, which may deter some users. Additionally, some people may find the app’s interface less intuitive than those of other popular note-taking apps.

As someone who values both handwritten notes and audio recordings, I find Noteshelf’s combination of features to be an excellent fit for my needs. The ability to easily switch between handwriting, typing, and audio recording ensures that I can always capture important information efficiently.

5. Nebo

Nebo distinguishes itself with excellent handwriting recognition and conversion capabilities. This feature makes the app perfect for users who enjoy a mix of handwritten and typed notes. The app also supports multi-device synchronization, allowing you to access your notes on various platforms seamlessly.

One downside to Nebo is its lack of audio recording capabilities, which some users may find limiting. Additionally, Nebo’s unique layout and features may require a bit of time to learn and adapt to.

As someone who values a clean, structured note-taking environment, I appreciate Nebo’s interactive ink feature and the well-organized layout it provides. The ability to effortlessly convert my handwriting into typed text simplifies the note-taking process and ensures my notes are always legible and easy to read.

6. Evernote

Evernote is a popular note-taking platform known for its range of organizational tools, automatic syncing across devices, and integration with numerous third-party applications. It supports a variety of note formats, including text, images, audio, and more. However, Evernote lacks advanced handwriting recognition features and has relatively limited drawing tools compared to other note-taking apps.

Evernote also works on Android: See the Top Note-Taking apps for Samsung Galaxy and Pixel Devices (Android tablets)

As a long-time Evernote user, I appreciate its robust organization and search features, which make it easy to keep track of my notes and tasks. However, I sometimes find myself turning to other apps, like Notability or GoodNotes, for a more handwriting-centric experience.

7. Notepad+

Notepad+ is a simple yet effective note-taking app designed primarily for handwritten notes. It offers a range of pen types, colors, and thicknesses, as well as a variety of paper styles to choose from. However, the app lacks some advanced features found in other note-taking apps, such as audio recording or handwriting recognition.

As someone who prefers a straightforward note-taking experience without unnecessary bells and whistles, I find Notepad+ to be a reliable choice for quickly jotting down thoughts and ideas.

8. Whink

Whink is a sleek and minimalist note-taking app that combines drawing, handwriting, and typing in a single interface. It offers a range of customizable pen tools and supports audio recording for added versatility. However, its limited organizational features and lack of handwriting recognition may be drawbacks for some users.

As a fan of minimalism, I enjoy Whink’s clean interface and streamlined feature set. While the app may not have all the functionality of other note-taking apps, it covers the basics well and provides a pleasant note-taking experience.

9. ZoomNotes

ZoomNotes offers an infinite canvas, making it an excellent choice for visually inclined note-takers who enjoy sketching out their thoughts and ideas. The app supports multiple layers, allowing users to create complex and detailed notes. One drawback, however, is its clunky user interface and the steep learning curve associated with its extensive features.

Personally, I find ZoomNotes’ infinite canvas and sub-pages feature to be incredibly useful for organizing complex information and creating visually rich notes. However, the app’s interface can be overwhelming and may take some time to master.

10. Penbook

Penbook is a highly customizable note-taking app that offers a range of stationery templates, background options, and input methods. This app is perfect for users who value personalization and creativity in their note-taking process. However, Penbook lacks advanced features like audio recording and handwriting recognition, which may limit its appeal for some users.

As an author, artist and note-taker, I love the variety of templates and customization options Penbook provides. These features allow me to create visually appealing notes tailored to my specific needs and preferences.

11. Zoho Notebook

Zoho Notebook is a visually appealing and user-friendly note-taking app that supports multimedia content, multi-device synchronization, and automation options.

In my experience, Zoho Notebook’s beautiful interface and diverse card types make it a pleasure to use for casual note-taking. However, I sometimes find myself needing more advanced organizational tools for complex projects.

12. CollaNote

CollaNote is a collaborative note-taking app designed for real-time collaboration and multimedia integration. It features automatic syncing, easy-to-use drawing tools, and integration with cloud storage services, making it suitable for group projects and multimedia notes. However, the app lacks advanced organization features and has an unusual tagging system.

I appreciate CollaNote’s collaboration features and multimedia support when working with my team. However, the app’s organizational limitations occasionally require me to use other tools for more structured note-taking.

13. MarginNote 3

MarginNote 3 is a powerful note-taking and research app that allows users to annotate and organize information from multiple sources. Its features include multi-document support, advanced organization, and cross-device syncing. However, MarginNote’s resource-heavy nature and steep learning curve may deter casual note-takers.

I find MarginNote 3’s ability to consolidate notes from various sources incredibly valuable for organizing and analyzing complex information. However, the app’s learning curve can be intimidating and may not be suitable for casual note-takers.

14. LiquidText

LiquidText is a unique note-taking app designed for reading, analyzing, and extracting information from PDFs and other documents. It features an infinite workspace that combines imported text snippets with handwritten notes, allowing users to draw connections and create summaries. However, its specialized focus may not make it suitable for everyday note-taking needs.

As an educated tech author, I find LiquidText invaluable for processing and synthesizing information from lengthy academic articles. However, for more casual note-taking purposes, I prefer to use other apps like Notability or GoodNotes.

15. Freeform by Apple

Freeform, a digital whiteboard app recently introduced by Apple, comes pre-installed on all Apple devices. With features like adding images, text, and handwriting, it’s a versatile tool for brainstorming and practicing digital hand lettering or calligraphy.

However, serious note-takers may prefer to stick to dedicated apps like Apple Notes or the other apps mentioned above.

16. Noteful

Noteful is a minimalist note-taking app designed for simplicity and ease of use. It features basic handwriting and typing tools, as well as a clean interface for organizing notes. However, it lacks some of the advanced features and customization options found in other note-taking apps.

As someone who appreciates a clutter-free note-taking experience, I find Noteful to be a suitable option for quick thoughts and simple note-taking tasks. However, for more complex projects or research

17. Penultimate by Evernote

Penultimate is an intuitive and user-friendly note-taking app, perfect for those who prefer using the Apple Pencil to jot down their thoughts. Developed by Evernote, this app syncs seamlessly with the Evernote platform, allowing you to access your handwritten notes across devices and platforms.

One of Penultimate’s standout features is its ability to convert handwriting into digital text. This comes in handy when you need to search for specific terms within your notes, or when organizing and categorizing them.

From a personal standpoint, I appreciate Penultimate’s simplicity and smooth integration with Evernote, which I use to organize all of my notes. The app offers a range of paper styles and pen options, enabling me to customize my note-taking experience. The palm rejection feature also ensures that I don’t accidentally mark my notes while resting my hand on the iPad screen.

However, one drawback of Penultimate is its limited range of features compared to other more comprehensive note-taking apps like GoodNotes or Notability. Additionally, some users have reported occasional syncing issues between Penultimate and Evernote.

18. PDF Expert

PDF Expert is an excellent tool for those who need a powerful and versatile note-taking app that’s not just limited to handwriting. While it’s primarily designed as a PDF editor, PDF Expert’s note-taking and annotation features are top-notch, making it a great option for iPad users.

What I love about PDF Expert is its ability to work with a variety of file formats, not just PDFs. This flexibility allows me to import Word documents, PowerPoint presentations, and even images into my notes, making for a richer note-taking experience.

The app offers a wide range of annotation and editing tools, including the ability to highlight, underline, and strike-through text, as well as add comments and drawings. When working with PDFs, PDF Expert’s text recognition feature makes it easy to search for and copy text within the document.

Which is better: Handwritten and Typed Notes on iPad?

Handwritten and typed notes on the iPad offer unique benefits, catering to different types of learners. Ideally, a combination of both is best, but handwritten notes is objectively the best because you can easily draw and also convert handwriting to typed text if you need to.

Studies suggest that handwritten notes (something you can do with goodnotes) can result in better information retention, due to the increased level of cognitive processing involved.

However, typed notes allow for faster note-taking and easy editing, which may be more suitable for specific situations.

Most of the top note-taking apps for iPad cater to both handwritten and typed notes, providing users with flexibility in choosing the most suitable method. Apps like Nebo, for instance, seamlessly integrate handwriting and typed text. Handwriting recognition and conversion features in apps like GoodNotes 5 make it extremely convenient in managing different types of notes.

Note-Taking Apps with Apple Pencil Compatibility

Apple Pencil compatibility is a key consideration for those who primarily use their iPad for handwritten notes. Most of the top apps in the market, such as Notability, GoodNotes 5, Nebo, and Apple Notes, are fully compatible with Apple Pencil, providing a smooth and intuitive writing experience.

Apps like LiquidText and MarginNote 3 also offer Apple Pencil compatibility while focusing on research and organization features.

The integration of Apple Pencil and third part stylus pens with these apps enables users to draw connections, create annotations, and extract key information with ease. It is essential to make sure that your chosen app is fully optimized for Apple Pencil usage to experience the best of what this incredible tool offers.

Advantages of Note-Taking on iPad

Note-taking on the iPad provides several advantages over conventional paper-and-pen methods. Digital note-taking enables easy organization, intuitive editing, and seamless sharing or exporting options. Cloud synchronization across multiple devices enhances accessibility and ensures that your notes are always up-to-date and readily available.

The iPad’s technological prowess, combined with the precision of Apple Pencil, allows for easy navigation and flexible formatting. With various apps available, users can experiment and find the perfect combination of features, interface, and writing style that suits their needs. Another advantage is the availability of Paperlike screen protectors, which enhance the writing experience on the iPad by making the smooth screen feel like paper.

Optimal Note Organization on iPad for School or Work

Organizing your notes effectively is crucial for boosting productivity and creating a synergistic note-taking environment. By utilizing the right iPad note-taking app, you can make sure your notes are easily accessible, searchable, and manageable.

One essential criteria to consider is how these apps categorize and sort your notes, be it through folders, tags, or color-coded labels. Keep in mind that different people prefer different organizational methods – some may prefer hierarchical structures, while others might choose tag-based systems.

Integration with cloud storage services, such as iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox, is another advantage that ensures seamless access to your notes across multiple devices. Real-time collaboration features can also enable you to work with classmates, colleagues, or study buddies, making group projects and discussions more efficient and coordinated.

Side note: exploring available customization options, such as templates, pen types, and text formatting, can further streamline the note-taking experience and ensure that you personalize your notes to better suit your learning or working style.

Exploring Note-Taking App Features

When looking for the best iPad note-taking apps, evaluating the app’s unique features is essential to make sure it aligns with your particular needs.

Handwriting recognition and conversion can be vital to users who prefer writing with an Apple Pencil, as it allows you to search your handwritten notes quickly and even convert them to text. What’s more, apps that offer infinite canvas or zoom capabilities enable note-takers to think without boundaries, encouraging creativity and freedom for visual-minded users.

Advanced annotation, editing, and markup tools are crucial for revision, research, and pdf handling. One advantage of apps providing audio recording, syncing, or built-in video functionalities is that they cater to users with diverse learning styles while increasing information retention.

Essentially… understanding and comparing the features offered by various note-taking apps will help you make an informed decision and select the app that best complements your workflow and preferences.

User Surveys: iPad Note-Taking App Preferences

When assessing note-taking apps on iPad, analyzing user preferences can provide valuable insights into popular choices (AND user satisfaction). The most popular note-taking apps usually have a high number of positive reviews, ensuring that they meet users’ expectations and deliver good performance.

Often, users share their experiences, mention issues they encountered, or suggest improvements they need, providing a comprehensive picture of the app’s performance.

Looking at user surveys and reviews can help you gain helpful perspective on which features are considered essential by users and what aspects might require improvement. Make sure to take note of any limitations or shortcomings mentioned by users – as they might influence your decision on which app to opt for.

By doing so, you will make sure that you choose an app that has been tested and endorsed by actual users, avoiding apps that fail to deliver despite their attractive promises.

Criteria for Ranking the Best iPad Note-Taking Apps

Determining the best iPad note-taking apps involves several factors that should be taken into account. Some of the main criteria for ranking these apps include user satisfaction, which can be assessed through ratings and reviews, in-app features that cater to diverse note-taking styles, easy-to-navigate user interfaces, and a balance between customization and complexity.

Cross-platform compatibility is an essential factor to consider, especially if you need access to your notes from different devices or platforms.

…Pricing should also play a role in your decision, ranging from free apps to one-time purchases or subscription-based models. Ultimately, the best app for you will depend on your individual needs, the type of notes you take, and your personal priorities in functionality and aesthetics.

iPad Alternatives for Note-Taking: E-ink Devices (Remarkable, Supernote, Mobiscribe)

For individuals seeking an experience closer to writing on paper, E-ink devices, such as Remarkable, Supernote, or Mobiscribe, offer a compelling and unique alternative to traditional iPads and tablet devices. With their paper-like feel and digital ink technology, these devices eliminate the sensory disconnect sometimes associated with writing on a glass screen.

One advantage of using E-ink devices is that they emit little to no blue light, reducing the strain on your eyes for long study sessions or workdays. While these devices might not provide as wide a range of features and functionalities as iPad note-taking apps, they are designed specifically for note-taking and often include handwriting recognition, organizational tools, and seamless cloud syncing. Weighing the pros and cons of E-ink devices compared to iPads and choosing the option that caters best to your priorities will ensure a successful and satisfying note-taking experience.

Comparing Note-Taking on iPad Air and iPad Pro

When deciding between iPad Air and iPad Pro for note-taking purposes, there are some key differences to consider. For starters, the iPad Pro offers a superior display, featuring ProMotion technology, which provides a 120Hz refresh rate, resulting in smoother scrolling and more precise input for writing and drawing with the Apple Pencil. On the other hand, the iPad Air features a 60Hz refresh rate, which is still fluid, but not as smooth as the iPad Pro.

Related: 7 Best Stylus for iPad Air

Another aspect to consider is processing power. The iPad Pro is equipped with the powerful M1 chip, making it ideal for heavy multitasking and demanding applications, while the iPad Air has the A14 Bionic chip, which provides sufficient power for most note-taking scenarios. However, if you plan on utilizing resource-intensive apps, the iPad Pro would be a better choice.

Also see: Exactly How Long Does An IPad Last?

Lastly, price is a significant factor. The iPad Air offers a more budget-friendly option for note-taking purposes, while the iPad Pro delivers an all-around higher performance tablet with a higher price tag. Ultimately, the choice between the two devices depends on your budget and note-taking requirements.

Apple Pencil vs. Third-Party Styluses for iPad Note-Taking

The Apple Pencil remains the most popular and widely recommended stylus option for iPad note-taking due to its close integration with the iPad and its apps. The seamless pairing and charging capabilities, along with the excellent responsiveness and accuracy of the Apple Pencil, make it the gold standard for stylus performance on iPads. Moreover, the Apple Pencil supports palm rejection, tilt sensitivity, and pressure sensitivity, providing a natural writing experience.

See stylus pens like the Zagg Pro Apple Pencil, Adonit Note+, and the Adonit Pixel

Nevertheless, third-party styluses also have their advantages. Some notable options include the Logitech Crayon, Adonit Note, and Wacom Bamboo Sketch. These styluses often come at a lower price point than the Apple Pencil, making them a more affordable option for those on a budget. With features like palm rejection, Bluetooth connectivity, and compatibility with various note-taking apps, these third-party options provide a reasonable alternative to the Apple Pencil for a more budget-conscious note-taker.

Handwriting Conversion to Text on iPad

One of the most practical and sought-after features of iPad note-taking apps is the ability to convert handwritten text to digital text. GoodNotes, Notability, and Nebo are some of the leading apps that offer this functionality. These apps leverage advanced handwriting recognition algorithms to analyze your writing and provide real-time conversion.

Handwriting conversion on the iPad can be especially beneficial for users who prefer writing by hand but still need a digital and searchable version of their notes. This process saves time and reduces the need for manual transcription. It is important to note that handwriting recognition can vary in accuracy based on the app and user’s penmanship. However, most apps improve their handwriting recognition over time, making the conversion process more precise and efficient.