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GoodNotes vs SMART Notebook

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

GoodNotes icon
GoodNotes
SMART Notebook icon
SMART Notebook

GoodNotes vs SMART Notebook: 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.

SMART Notebook: SMART Notebook is an interactive whiteboard software produced by SMART Technologies. It allows teachers and students to create interactive lessons, activities, and presentations. The software works with SMART Boards and features tools for writing notes, embedding media, collaborating, assessing students, and more.

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 SMART Notebook
Sugggest Score — —
Category Education & Reference Education & Reference

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

SMART Notebook
SMART Notebook

Description: SMART Notebook is an interactive whiteboard software produced by SMART Technologies. It allows teachers and students to create interactive lessons, activities, and presentations. The software works with SMART Boards and features tools for writing notes, embedding media, collaborating, assessing students, and more.

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
SMART Notebook
SMART Notebook Features
  • Interactive whiteboard software
  • Supports touch and gestures
  • Notebook pages for creating lessons
  • Variety of digital ink tools
  • Insert images, videos, files
  • Add shapes, text boxes, tables
  • Screen recording and screen sharing
  • Online gallery of lesson content
  • Supports multiple languages

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
SMART Notebook
SMART Notebook
Pros
  • Very intuitive and easy to use
  • Great for collaborative learning
  • Engages students with interactivity
  • Many features tailored for classroom use
  • Integrates with other SMART hardware
Cons
  • Requires SMART interactive displays
  • Can be expensive compared to alternatives
  • Some more advanced features require subscription
  • Not compatible with all devices/operating systems

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Learn More About Each Product

GoodNotes
GoodNotes
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
SMART Notebook
SMART Notebook
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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