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GoodNotes vs SideNotes

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

GoodNotes icon
GoodNotes
SideNotes icon
SideNotes

GoodNotes vs SideNotes: 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.

SideNotes: SideNotes is a digital notebook and annotation tool for the Mac. It allows users to take notes and annotate documents, PDFs, and images. Key features include cross-platform sync, website annotation, handwritten notes with Apple Pencil, and secure encryption.

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 SideNotes
Sugggest Score — —
Category Education & Reference Office & Productivity

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

SideNotes
SideNotes

Description: SideNotes is a digital notebook and annotation tool for the Mac. It allows users to take notes and annotate documents, PDFs, and images. Key features include cross-platform sync, website annotation, handwritten notes with Apple Pencil, and secure encryption.

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
SideNotes
SideNotes Features
  • Cross-platform sync
  • Website annotation
  • Handwritten notes with Apple Pencil
  • Secure encryption

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
SideNotes
SideNotes
Pros
  • Syncs notes across devices
  • Annotate web pages and PDFs
  • Natural handwriting with Apple Pencil
  • Notes are securely encrypted
Cons
  • No Windows version
  • Limited formatting options
  • Requires subscription for full features
  • No collaboration features

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Learn More About Each Product

GoodNotes
GoodNotes
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
SideNotes
SideNotes
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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