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Pencil Journal vs Things

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

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Pencil Journal
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Things

Pencil Journal vs Things: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Pencil Journal Things
Sugggest Score — —
Category Office & Productivity Productivity
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

Pencil Journal
Pencil Journal

Description: Pencil Journal is a free and open-source journaling app for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android. It allows keeping a digital journal or diary with rich text formatting, photos, tags and more. Pencil Journal emphasizes privacy and does not collect personal data.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Things
Things

Description: Things is a task management app for Mac and iOS that helps users organize projects and to-do lists. It has a simple, clean interface and features like tags, reminders, and deep Apple integration.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

Pencil Journal
Pencil Journal Features
  • Rich text editor for journal entries
  • Insert images, audio and video
  • Tag journal entries
  • Search and filter by tags
  • Cross-platform - available on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android
Things
Things Features
  • Task management
  • Project organization
  • To-do lists
  • Tags
  • Reminders
  • Deep Apple integration

Pros & Cons Analysis

Pencil Journal
Pencil Journal
Pros
  • Free and open source
  • Emphasizes privacy - does not collect user data
  • Customizable interface
  • Syncs journals across devices
  • Good selection of formatting options for entries
Cons
  • Limited template options
  • No collaboration features
  • No analytics or statistics
  • Basic interface may turn off some users
Things
Things
Pros
  • Simple, clean interface
  • Powerful organization features
  • Seamless syncing between Mac, iPhone, iPad
  • Strong Apple integration
Cons
  • No web app
  • Can be pricey for extensive features
  • iOS-focused features may not appeal to non-Apple users

Pricing Comparison

Pencil Journal
Pencil Journal
  • Open Source
Things
Things
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

Pencil Journal
Pencil Journal
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Things
Things
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