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ExifTool vs GoodNotes

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

ExifTool icon
ExifTool
GoodNotes icon
GoodNotes

ExifTool vs GoodNotes: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

ExifTool: ExifTool is a free and open source software utility for reading, writing and editing metadata in image, audio and video files. It supports many different file types and metadata formats.

GoodNotes: GoodNotes is a digital handwriting and note-taking app for iPad and iPhone. It allows you to take notes, annotate PDFs, sketch ideas, and organize notes into notebooks using the Apple Pencil or your finger. GoodNotes is intuitive, flexible, and great for students and professionals.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature ExifTool GoodNotes
Sugggest Score — —
Category Photos & Graphics Education & Reference
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

ExifTool
ExifTool

Description: ExifTool is a free and open source software utility for reading, writing and editing metadata in image, audio and video files. It supports many different file types and metadata formats.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

GoodNotes
GoodNotes

Description: GoodNotes is a digital handwriting and note-taking app for iPad and iPhone. It allows you to take notes, annotate PDFs, sketch ideas, and organize notes into notebooks using the Apple Pencil or your finger. GoodNotes is intuitive, flexible, and great for students and professionals.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

ExifTool
ExifTool Features
  • Read and write metadata in image, video, audio and PDF files
  • Support for many different file formats like JPEG, TIFF, PNG, MP3, MP4, etc.
  • Edit metadata like EXIF, IPTC, XMP, ICC Profile, Photoshop IRB, JFIF, GeoTIFF, etc.
  • Command line interface and API for integration into scripts and programs
  • Platform independent - works on Windows, Mac, Linux
  • Extract thumbnail images
  • Lossless rotation and flipping of images
  • Add or remove metadata without changing original files
  • Rename files and directories based on metadata
GoodNotes
GoodNotes Features
  • Handwriting and drawing with Apple Pencil
  • Annotate PDFs and documents
  • Create and organize notes into notebooks
  • Variety of pen styles and colors
  • Shape recognition
  • Zoom writing
  • Search handwritten notes

Pros & Cons Analysis

ExifTool
ExifTool

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Very versatile - supports many file types and metadata formats
  • Actively developed and maintained
  • Cross-platform compatibility
  • Can be automated via command line and APIs
  • Lightweight and fast

Cons

  • Command line interface has a learning curve
  • No native graphical user interface
  • Metadata support can be complex for beginners
  • Requires some technical knowledge to use advanced features
GoodNotes
GoodNotes

Pros

  • Natural writing and drawing experience
  • Powerful organization with notebooks
  • Ability to search handwritten notes
  • Integrates well with other Apple products and services

Cons

  • No web or Windows version
  • Less templates compared to competitors
  • Can be pricey compared to free alternatives

Pricing Comparison

ExifTool
ExifTool
  • Open Source
GoodNotes
GoodNotes
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

ExifTool
ExifTool
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
GoodNotes
GoodNotes
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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