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Microsoft Journal vs Notes Plus

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

Microsoft Journal icon
Microsoft Journal
Notes Plus icon
Notes Plus

Microsoft Journal vs Notes Plus: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Microsoft Journal Notes Plus
Sugggest Score
Category Office & Productivity Education & Reference

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

Notes Plus
Notes Plus

Description: Notes Plus is a handwriting and sketching app optimized for the iPad. It allows you to take notes, annotate PDFs, sketch ideas, and more using an Apple Pencil or your finger. The app has advanced organization tools like folders, tagging, and search to help you easily find your notes.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

Microsoft Journal
Microsoft Journal Features
  • Freeform inking with a stylus
  • Text typing
  • Inserting images and clippings
  • Basic note organization
Notes Plus
Notes Plus Features
  • Handwriting and sketching
  • Annotate PDFs
  • Apple Pencil support
  • Finger drawing
  • Note organization with folders, tagging, search
  • Sync notes across devices
  • Record audio notes
  • Import PDFs and images
  • Variable pen sizes and colors

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
Notes Plus
Notes Plus
Pros
  • Intuitive interface
  • Powerful organization features
  • Smooth writing experience
  • Lots of annotation tools
  • Syncs with cloud services
Cons
  • No Windows version
  • PDF annotation can be glitchy
  • No collaboration features
  • Steep learning curve for advanced features

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