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Microsoft Journal vs NotePlan

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

Microsoft Journal icon
Microsoft Journal
NotePlan icon
NotePlan

Microsoft Journal vs NotePlan: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Microsoft Journal: Microsoft Journal is a digital notebook app developed by Microsoft for Windows that allows users to handwrite or type notes which are stored digitally. It has capabilities including freeform inking with a stylus, text typing, inserting images and clippings, and basic note organization features.

NotePlan: NotePlan is a note taking app for Mac, iOS, and iPadOS designed for creating and organizing notes. It supports Markdown formatting, link and image insertion, tagging, and backlinks for note connectivity. Key features include document previews, iCloud sync, customizable themes, daily journaling, and note 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 Microsoft Journal NotePlan
Sugggest Score — —
Category Office & Productivity Office & Productivity

Product Overview

Microsoft Journal
Microsoft Journal

Description: Microsoft Journal is a digital notebook app developed by Microsoft for Windows that allows users to handwrite or type notes which are stored digitally. It has capabilities including freeform inking with a stylus, text typing, inserting images and clippings, and basic note organization features.

Type: software

NotePlan
NotePlan

Description: NotePlan is a note taking app for Mac, iOS, and iPadOS designed for creating and organizing notes. It supports Markdown formatting, link and image insertion, tagging, and backlinks for note connectivity. Key features include document previews, iCloud sync, customizable themes, daily journaling, and note encryption.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

Microsoft Journal
Microsoft Journal Features
  • Freeform inking with a stylus
  • Text typing
  • Inserting images and clippings
  • Basic note organization
NotePlan
NotePlan Features
  • Markdown formatting support
  • Link and image insertion
  • Tagging and backlinks for note connectivity
  • Document previews
  • iCloud sync
  • Customizable themes
  • Daily journaling
  • Note encryption

Pros & Cons Analysis

Microsoft Journal
Microsoft Journal
Pros
  • Intuitive handwriting and sketching
  • Syncs notes across devices
  • Variety of pen and highlighter options
  • Easy to insert images and screenshots
Cons
  • Limited formatting options
  • No collaboration features
  • Windows-only
  • Discontinued by Microsoft
NotePlan
NotePlan
Pros
  • Intuitive and user-friendly interface
  • Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem
  • Powerful note-taking and organization features
  • Supports Markdown for enhanced formatting
  • Secure note encryption
Cons
  • Limited to Apple devices (Mac, iOS, iPadOS)
  • May not have as many features as some other note-taking apps
  • Subscription-based pricing model may not suit all users

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Learn More About Each Product

Microsoft Journal
Microsoft Journal
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NotePlan
NotePlan
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