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HackMD vs Pen Journal

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

HackMD icon
HackMD
Pen Journal icon
Pen Journal

HackMD vs Pen Journal: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

HackMD: HackMD is a real-time collaborative markdown editor and note-taking web application. It allows teams to write, edit, review and publish markdown documents together in real-time. Features include GitHub/GitLab integration, code blocks, task lists, and drawing.

Pen Journal: Pen Journal is a minimalist journaling app that focuses on freeform writing with pen and paper styled vectors. It provides a simple, distraction-free interface for journaling privately on your device.

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 HackMD Pen Journal
Sugggest Score
Category Remote Work & Education Office & Productivity
Pricing Open Source

Product Overview

HackMD
HackMD

Description: HackMD is a real-time collaborative markdown editor and note-taking web application. It allows teams to write, edit, review and publish markdown documents together in real-time. Features include GitHub/GitLab integration, code blocks, task lists, and drawing.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Pen Journal
Pen Journal

Description: Pen Journal is a minimalist journaling app that focuses on freeform writing with pen and paper styled vectors. It provides a simple, distraction-free interface for journaling privately on your device.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

HackMD
HackMD Features
  • Real-time collaborative editing
  • Markdown support
  • Code block support
  • GitHub/GitLab integration
  • Task lists
  • Drawing support
Pen Journal
Pen Journal Features
  • Freeform writing with pen and paper styled vectors
  • Distraction-free interface for private journaling
  • Minimalist design
  • Cloud-sync and backup
  • Export journal entries as PDF or image files

Pros & Cons Analysis

HackMD
HackMD
Pros
  • Free for individuals
  • Great for collaboration
  • Integrates with GitHub/GitLab
  • Supports markdown formatting
  • Has useful features like code blocks and drawings
Cons
  • Formatting can get messed up with multiple simultaneous editors
  • No WYSIWYG editor
  • Limited free plan storage
Pen Journal
Pen Journal
Pros
  • Simple and focused interface
  • Aesthetically pleasing pen and paper style
  • Supports private journaling
  • Ability to export entries
Cons
  • Limited customization options
  • No collaboration or sharing features
  • Lack of advanced formatting or organization tools

Pricing Comparison

HackMD
HackMD
  • Open Source
Pen Journal
Pen Journal
  • Not listed

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