Standard Notes vs Ulysses

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

Standard Notes

Ulysses

Standard Notes vs Ulysses: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

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.

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	Standard Notes	Ulysses
Sugggest Score	32	—
User Rating	⭐ 3.8/5 (23)	—
Category	Security & Privacy	Office & Productivity
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

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

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

Standard Notes Features

Encrypted notes
Local-first storage
Cross-platform sync
Custom themes
Markdown support
Tagging
Keyboard shortcuts

Ulysses Features

Minimalist interface
iCloud sync
Word count goals
Markup formatting
Library organization

Pros & Cons Analysis

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

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

Pricing Comparison

Standard Notes

Freemium

Ulysses

Not listed

⭐ User Ratings

Standard Notes

3.8/5

23 reviews

Ulysses

No reviews yet

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Standard Notes

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