Simplenote

What it is

Simplenote is plain-text note taking from Automattic that syncs across iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux and the browser, with no sync button because updates propagate automatically and in real time. Organisation is deliberately shallow: notes carry tags and instant search finds them, and there is no folder tree, formatting toolbar or attachment handling to manage. Notes can be shared with other people, published online as a link, or written in Markdown with a preview. Every change is backed up, so an earlier version of a note from last week or last month can be brought back. Apps, backups, syncing and sharing are all free - there is no paid tier, which is the trade-off behind how little the app tries to do.

Key features

• Real-time sync everywhere

  Notes stay current across iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux and the web with no sync step.

• Tags and instant search

  Organisation is tag-based with search that narrows as you type.

• Version history

  Every change is backed up, so an earlier state of a note can be restored.

• Sharing and publishing

  Notes can be shared with collaborators or published online as a link.

• Markdown support

  Notes can be written, previewed and published in Markdown.

Strengths and trade-offs

Who it is for

People who want notes to open instantly and stay out of the way.

Pick it or skip it

Frequently asked questions

Who is Simplenote best for?

People who want notes to open instantly and stay out of the way.

What are the main drawbacks of Simplenote?

The trade-offs we noted: Plain text only, no attachments; No organisation beyond tags; No collaboration to speak of.

When should you not use Simplenote?

Skip Simplenote if: You need images, attachments or rich text — Simplenote is text only; You need end-to-end encryption or offline-first local files; You want a company support contract; it is a free Automattic product.