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Microsoft Journal vs Standard Notes

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

Microsoft Journal icon
Microsoft Journal
Standard Notes icon
Standard Notes

Microsoft Journal vs Standard Notes: 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.

Standard Notes: Standard Notes is an open-source, encrypted notes app that focuses on privacy and security. It stores all notes locally by default and syncs encrypted data across devices. Core features include customizable themes, keyboard shortcuts, tagging, and markdown formatting.

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 Standard Notes
Sugggest Score 32
User Rating ⭐ 3.8/5 (23)
Category Office & Productivity Security & Privacy
Pricing Freemium
Ease of Use 3.4/5
Features Rating 3.2/5
Value for Money 4.0/5
Customer Support 4.1/5

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

Standard Notes
Standard Notes

Description: Standard Notes is an open-source, encrypted notes app that focuses on privacy and security. It stores all notes locally by default and syncs encrypted data across devices. Core features include customizable themes, keyboard shortcuts, tagging, and markdown formatting.

Type: software

Pricing: Freemium

Key Features Comparison

Microsoft Journal
Microsoft Journal Features
  • Freeform inking with a stylus
  • Text typing
  • Inserting images and clippings
  • Basic note organization
Standard Notes
Standard Notes Features
  • Encrypted notes
  • Local-first storage
  • Cross-platform sync
  • Custom themes
  • Markdown support
  • Tagging
  • Keyboard shortcuts

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
Standard Notes
Standard Notes
Pros
  • Strong encryption
  • Open source
  • Customizable interface
  • Available on many platforms
  • Local-first model improves privacy
  • Free tier available
Cons
  • Sync requires paid plan
  • Limited formatting options
  • No offline access on web
  • Mobile apps cost extra

Pricing Comparison

Microsoft Journal
Microsoft Journal
  • Not listed
Standard Notes
Standard Notes
  • Freemium

⭐ User Ratings

Microsoft Journal

No reviews yet

Standard Notes
3.8/5

23 reviews

Ready to Make Your Decision?

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