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GoodNotes vs Shutterstock

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

GoodNotes icon
GoodNotes
Shutterstock icon
Shutterstock

GoodNotes vs Shutterstock: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

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.

Shutterstock: Shutterstock is a stock photography, footage and music platform that provides high-quality assets for businesses, marketing agencies and media organizations. It features an extensive library of photos, videos clips and songs that can be licensed for commercial or editorial use.

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 GoodNotes Shutterstock
Sugggest Score — —
Category Education & Reference Photos & Graphics

Product Overview

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

Shutterstock
Shutterstock

Description: Shutterstock is a stock photography, footage and music platform that provides high-quality assets for businesses, marketing agencies and media organizations. It features an extensive library of photos, videos clips and songs that can be licensed for commercial or editorial use.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

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
Shutterstock
Shutterstock Features
  • Extensive library of stock photos, videos, music
  • Ability to search by keywords, categories, collections
  • Options for different license types and lengths
  • Tools for managing lightboxes and downloads
  • High-resolution image options
  • Video clips available in HD and 4K
  • New content added daily
  • Mobile apps allow accessing library on the go

Pros & Cons Analysis

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
Shutterstock
Shutterstock

Pros

  • Huge selection of high-quality assets
  • Affordable pricing
  • Easy to search and find relevant content
  • Flexible licensing options
  • Excellent customer support

Cons

  • Can be expensive for large volumes or extended licenses
  • Limitations on image use for cheaper licenses
  • Some assets are overused
  • Downloading and organizing assets can be cumbersome

Related Comparisons

Learn More About Each Product

GoodNotes
GoodNotes
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
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