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GoodNotes vs Xodo

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

GoodNotes icon
GoodNotes
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Xodo

GoodNotes vs Xodo: 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.

Xodo: Xodo is a free PDF reader and annotator for Windows, Linux, Android, iOS and web browsers. It allows you to view, edit, sign, and collaborate on PDF documents. Xodo is lightweight, fast, and has an intuitive, user-friendly interface.

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 Xodo
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

Xodo
Xodo

Description: Xodo is a free PDF reader and annotator for Windows, Linux, Android, iOS and web browsers. It allows you to view, edit, sign, and collaborate on PDF documents. Xodo is lightweight, fast, and has an intuitive, user-friendly interface.

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
Xodo
Xodo Features
  • View, edit and annotate PDFs
  • Fill out PDF forms
  • Add text, shapes, freehand drawings
  • Highlight and underline text
  • Add comments and feedback
  • Digital signatures
  • Document organization with bookmarks
  • Share and collaborate on documents
  • Sync documents across devices
  • Dark mode support
  • Fast and responsive interface

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
Xodo
Xodo

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Clean and intuitive interface
  • Good annotation and editing tools
  • Lightweight and fast
  • Available across platforms
  • Supports collaboration
  • No subscription required

Cons

  • Limited features compared to paid options
  • Lacks advanced PDF editing tools
  • No OCR for scanning documents
  • Fewer sharing and collaboration options
  • No cloud storage integration

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Learn More About Each Product

GoodNotes
GoodNotes
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Xodo
Xodo
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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