SideNotes vs Ulysses

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

SideNotes

Ulysses

SideNotes vs Ulysses: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

SideNotes: SideNotes is a digital notebook and annotation tool for the Mac. It allows users to take notes and annotate documents, PDFs, and images. Key features include cross-platform sync, website annotation, handwritten notes with Apple Pencil, and secure encryption.

Ulysses: Ulysses is a popular writing app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone that allows users to write without distractions. It has a clean, minimalist interface and offers useful writing tools like word count goals, markup for formatting, and library organization. Ulysses syncs documents across devices via iCloud.

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	SideNotes	Ulysses
Sugggest Score	—	—
Category	Office & Productivity	Office & Productivity

Product Overview

SideNotes

Description: SideNotes is a digital notebook and annotation tool for the Mac. It allows users to take notes and annotate documents, PDFs, and images. Key features include cross-platform sync, website annotation, handwritten notes with Apple Pencil, and secure encryption.

Type: software

Ulysses

Description: Ulysses is a popular writing app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone that allows users to write without distractions. It has a clean, minimalist interface and offers useful writing tools like word count goals, markup for formatting, and library organization. Ulysses syncs documents across devices via iCloud.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

SideNotes Features

Cross-platform sync
Website annotation
Handwritten notes with Apple Pencil
Secure encryption

Ulysses Features

Minimalist interface
iCloud sync
Word count goals
Markup formatting
Library organization

Pros & Cons Analysis

SideNotes

Pros

Syncs notes across devices
Annotate web pages and PDFs
Natural handwriting with Apple Pencil
Notes are securely encrypted

Cons

No Windows version
Limited formatting options
Requires subscription for full features
No collaboration features

Ulysses

Pros

Distraction-free writing
Cross-platform compatibility
Useful writing tools
Clean interface

Cons

Expensive subscription
Limited export options
No collaboration features
Mac/iOS only

Related Comparisons

Scrivener

vs SideNotes vs Ulysses

Typora

vs SideNotes vs Ulysses

CherryTree

vs SideNotes vs Ulysses

7 Sticky Notes

vs SideNotes vs Ulysses

Microsoft Sticky Notes

vs SideNotes vs Ulysses

Vov Sticky Notes

vs SideNotes vs Ulysses

Learn More About Each Product

Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

Ready to Make Your Decision?

Explore more software comparisons and find the perfect solution for your needs

SideNotes Alternatives

Ulysses Alternatives

Browse More Software