For students trying to pick the best note-taking app, the choice often comes down to GoodNotes versus Notability. Both are super popular and have lots of features, but they also have their own quirks. Deciding which one is right for you can be a bit tricky, especially since how you take notes and what you need from an app can be really different from person to person. This article digs into what each app offers, helping you figure out which one might be a better fit for your schoolwork.
Key Takeaways
- GoodNotes has a more polished look and feel, making it great for long-term use and those who like a lot of customization.
- Notability is straightforward and quick, perfect for jotting down notes fast without a lot of fuss.
- GoodNotes recently added audio recording and math conversion, putting it on par with Notability in those areas.
- GoodNotes stands out with its AI-powered features and study sets, which can be a big help for learning and exam prep.
- While both apps have subscription options, GoodNotes offers a more budget-friendly one-time purchase, which is a plus for students.
Display and User Interface
When choosing a note-taking app, the display and user interface are super important. It's all about how easy it is to use and how nice it looks. A good interface can make studying way less of a drag, while a bad one can make you want to throw your iPad out the window. Let's break down how GoodNotes and Notability stack up in this department.
GoodNotes User Experience
GoodNotes has a pretty clean and straightforward interface. It feels a lot like using a real notebook, which is cool. The toolbar is easy to understand, and you can customize it to fit your needs. I like how you can quickly switch between different pens, highlighters, and erasers. The document management is also pretty good, making it easy to find your notes. It's not perfect, but it's generally a smooth experience. The app layout is intuitive, which is a big plus when you're trying to focus on studying.
Notability User Experience
Notability's interface is also pretty user-friendly, but it has a slightly different vibe. It feels a bit more modern and streamlined. One of the things I like about Notability is its focus on audio recording. It's super easy to start and stop recordings, and the audio syncs perfectly with your notes. The side-by-side note view is also handy for multitasking. However, some people find the organization a bit less intuitive than GoodNotes.
Overall Interface Comparison
Both apps have their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to the interface. It really comes down to personal preference. Here's a quick rundown:
- GoodNotes: More like a traditional notebook, customizable toolbar, good document management.
- Notability: Modern interface, easy audio recording, side-by-side note view.
- Both: User-friendly, but organization can be a sticking point for some users.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which interface you prefer is to try both apps out for yourself. Most offer free trials or limited versions, so you can get a feel for how they work before committing to a purchase. Consider what features are most important to you and see which app fits your workflow better.
Core Notetaking Features
PDF Annotation Capabilities
Both GoodNotes and Notability let you import and mark up PDFs, images, and other documents. They both give you a full set of tools for this, like pens and highlighters. The way they handle highlighting is the main difference. It's worth experimenting to see which style you prefer for annotating lecture slides or research papers. The ability to annotate PDFs is a core feature for students.
Audio Recording Functionality
Audio recording is super useful for capturing lectures or meetings. Notability syncs audio recordings with your notes. This means you can tap on a word and jump to the part of the recording when you wrote it. GoodNotes also has audio recording, but the syncing might work a bit differently. It's worth testing both to see which app's audio integration fits your study style better.
Handwriting and Pen Tools
Both apps offer a bunch of tools to customize your handwriting experience. GoodNotes has built-in shape tools, different pen types, highlighter options, and text boxes. Notability also has a good range of options. The key is to find the pen style and settings that feel most natural to you. Here are some things to consider:
- Pen pressure sensitivity
- Tilt recognition
- Customizable colors
- Line thickness options
Ultimately, the best app depends on your personal preferences and workflow. Try out the free versions or trials to see which one feels more comfortable and intuitive for you.
While handwriting with the Apple Pencil is a game-changer for note-taking, sometimes typing is the way to go for quick edits or longer notes. The Chesona Keyboard Case for iPad Air 13 Inch is a perfect companion for students using GoodNotes or Notability. Its responsive keyboard and built-in trackpad make typing lecture summaries or organizing study sets a breeze, while the integrated stand offers adjustable angles for comfortable viewing.
Advanced Learning Tools
AI-Powered Features
Both GoodNotes and Notability are starting to integrate AI, but they do it in different ways. GoodNotes has been pushing hard with its AI Math Assistance to catch errors in equations, which is pretty neat if you're a STEM student. Notability also has some AI features, like automatically creating flashcards from your notes. It's a handy way to save time, but it might not be as robust as GoodNotes' math-focused tools. It really depends on what you need AI for.
Flashcard and Study Set Creation
Flashcards are a must for many students, and both apps have you covered. GoodNotes has a built-in flashcard feature that uses science-backed learning techniques to help you study more efficiently. It customizes each session based on what you miss and reminds you when to review. Notability added flashcards more recently, with an AI-powered tool that creates them automatically. While GoodNotes' flashcard system might be a bit more involved, Notability's AI integration offers a quicker way to get started.
To take your study sessions to the next level, consider pairing your note-taking app with the Chesona Keyboard Case. This versatile case features a responsive keyboard and trackpad, perfect for quickly typing flashcard content or organizing study sets in GoodNotes or Notability. With backlit keys for late-night study sessions and a sturdy stand for optimal viewing angles, it’s a must-have for students aiming to stay productive and organized.
Math Conversion and Recognition
GoodNotes really shines when it comes to math. It can recognize mathematical expressions, symbols, and even chemical elements. It can also detect and correct errors in your handwritten or typed equations automatically. Notability, on the other hand, doesn't have this error-detection feature. If you're someone who deals with a lot of math or science, GoodNotes' math conversion and recognition tools could be a game-changer.
For students deeply involved in STEM fields, the advanced math capabilities in GoodNotes offer a distinct advantage. The ability to detect and correct errors in equations can save time and reduce mistakes, making it an invaluable tool for complex problem-solving and exam preparation.
Organization and File Management
Organization is key when you're juggling multiple classes and assignments. Let's see how GoodNotes and Notability stack up in this department.
Nested Folder System
GoodNotes shines when it comes to keeping things tidy. It allows for infinite nesting of folders, meaning you can create folders within folders, within folders... you get the idea. This is great if you like to have a super detailed system. Notability uses a simpler system with dividers and subjects, which can be nested, but not as deeply as GoodNotes. For some, this might be enough, but if you're a true organization fanatic, GoodNotes might be your winner.
Template Customization Options
Both apps offer templates, but the level of customization differs. GoodNotes lets you import custom templates, giving you more control over the look and feel of your notes. Notability has a decent selection of built-in templates, but it's not as flexible. If you have very specific needs or like to design your own layouts, GoodNotes is the better choice.
Imported Object Handling
How each app handles imported objects, like images and PDFs, is also important. GoodNotes treats these objects as standalone items unless you add them through a notebook submenu. Notability seems to integrate imported objects more smoothly into notes. This can affect how easily you can move and rearrange things within your notes. If you work with a lot of external files, this is something to consider. Goodnotes offers access to favorites on the sidebar, whether you’re using the free or the full version.
Ultimately, the best app for organization depends on your personal style. Do you prefer a simple, straightforward system, or do you need the ability to create a highly detailed hierarchy? Think about how you like to organize your physical notes and choose the app that best matches your workflow.
Pricing and Accessibility
Subscription Models Compared
Okay, let's talk money. Both GoodNotes and Notability have changed their pricing over the years, and it can be a bit confusing. Notability primarily uses a subscription model now, which means you pay every year to keep using all the features. GoodNotes, on the other hand, gives you a choice: you can subscribe annually, or you can make a one-time purchase. This one-time payment can be appealing if you don't like subscriptions. The Goodnotes app has a smaller subscription cost and the option of a one-time fee that’s much more affordable and has all the features most students will need and then some. It offers more customization, better organization, allows for collaboration, has AI-powered writing tools, and has exam prep materials, making it a pretty strong choice for college students.
One-Time Purchase Options
As mentioned above, GoodNotes offers a one-time purchase option, which is a big deal for some people. It means you pay once and own the app forever (or at least until they release a new major version and ask you to pay again – but that's usually a while). Notability doesn't have this option anymore; it's subscription-only. This makes GoodNotes more attractive if you're trying to avoid recurring costs. If you plan to take a lot of notes, it’s more than worth the cost.
Educational Institution Access
Here's a cool thing: both Notability and GoodNotes are often free for educational institutions that use Apple School Manager. So, if your school is part of that program, you might not have to pay anything at all! It's worth checking with your school's IT department to see if they participate. This can really take the financial pressure off students.
If your school participates in Apple School Manager, you might get either app for free. This is a huge benefit if you're a student on a tight budget, so it's worth checking out.
Platform Compatibility and Reviews
Supported Devices
When choosing a note-taking app, it's important to consider what devices you plan to use. Both GoodNotes and Notability work on Apple devices like iPads, iPhones, and Macs. GoodNotes has expanded its reach and is also available on Android and Windows devices. This cross-platform support can be a big plus if you aren't fully in the Apple ecosystem.
- iPad
- iPhone
- Mac
- Android (GoodNotes only)
- Windows (GoodNotes only)
App Store Ratings and Feedback
App store ratings can give you a quick idea of what other users think about an app. It's worth checking the latest reviews to see if there are any common issues or praises. Keep in mind that ratings can change over time as apps get updated. User feedback often mentions things like ease of use, reliability, and customer support. I always read a few reviews before making a decision.
Community Preferences
It seems like the note-taking community is pretty split between GoodNotes and Notability. Some people love GoodNotes for its organization features and one-time purchase option, while others prefer Notability for its audio recording capabilities and simple interface. Ultimately, the best app for you will depend on your own needs and preferences.
I think it's a good idea to try out the free versions (if available) or take advantage of any trial periods to see which app feels like a better fit for your workflow. What works for one person might not work for another, so personal experience is key.
Storage, Backup, and Sharing
Cloud Synchronization Options
When it comes to keeping your notes safe and accessible across all your devices, both GoodNotes and Notability offer cloud synchronization. GoodNotes relies on iCloud, which, honestly, is pretty standard for Apple users. It just works in the background. Notability used to do the same, but now, if you want that sweet, sweet iCloud sync, you'll need a subscription. It's a bit of a bummer, I know. If you're already paying for iCloud storage, it might not be a huge deal, but it's something to keep in mind. Goodnotes provides iCloud syncing iCloud syncing without additional costs.
Exporting and Sharing Notes
Both apps let you share your creations, but they go about it in slightly different ways. Notability has this thing called "link sharing," where you can create a public link to your note, and anyone with the link can view it. It's handy for sharing notes with classmates or study groups, but you can't actually collaborate on the note in real-time using just the link. GoodNotes also lets you export your notes in various formats, like PDF, which is super useful if you need to submit your notes for a class or share them with someone who doesn't use either app.
Data Security and Privacy
Okay, let's talk about something important: keeping your notes safe and private. Both GoodNotes and Notability use encryption to protect your data, which is good. I mean, who wants their notes floating around for anyone to see? It's also worth checking out their privacy policies to see exactly what data they collect and how they use it.
It's always a good idea to be aware of what you're agreeing to when you sign up for any app or service. Pay attention to the permissions you grant and how your data is being used. It's your information, after all!
Here's a quick rundown of backup options:
- GoodNotes: iCloud, Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive
- Notability: iCloud (with subscription), Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, Box, WebDAV
- Both allow exporting to PDF
- Consider enabling two-factor authentication on your cloud storage accounts for extra security.
Conclusion
So, after looking at everything, it's pretty clear that both GoodNotes and Notability are solid choices for students. They both have their own strong points. GoodNotes seems to be a bit more flexible and offers more ways to make things your own, which is great if you like to organize stuff just so. Notability, on the other hand, is super straightforward and easy to jump into if you just need to get notes down fast. It really comes down to what you need most. Do you want something you can really customize and dig into, or do you prefer something simple and quick? Either way, you're probably going to be happy with what these apps can do for your studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which app is better for college students, GoodNotes or Notability?
Both apps work well for college students, and your choice depends on what you need and how much you want to spend. Both have cool study tools, like a special 'tape' tool and AI-powered quizzes. But some of these cost extra. GoodNotes has a lower yearly cost and lets you buy it once forever, which is cheaper. It also has more ways to make things your own, better ways to keep notes organized, and AI tools for writing and test prep. Keep in mind, if your school uses Apple School Manager, both apps might be free for you, so cost might not be an issue.
Are these apps worth paying for?
GoodNotes has a yearly plan, but you can also pay a one-time fee to get all its features forever. If you plan to take lots of notes, it's definitely worth paying for. Notability Plus needs a yearly payment. If you really like how simple Notability is, it might be worth the money for you.
Can I make my own templates in GoodNotes and Notability?
Yes! Notability recently added a feature called 'Gallery' that lets you make your own custom templates. You can find out more about it and how to make templates there. GoodNotes doesn't let you create templates from scratch inside the app (besides changing page size and colors), but you can turn an existing page into a template. You can also bring in custom templates from outside the app and save them for later.
How do GoodNotes and Notability handle files like PDFs that you bring in?
Both apps let you bring in PDFs, pictures, and other files. They are pretty similar in this area. While GoodNotes feels a bit easier to use when you're writing on imported files, Notability still gives you all the tools you need to mark up your documents.
What devices do I need to use these apps?
Notability works on Mac, iPad, and iPhone. GoodNotes works on iPad, iPhone, and Mac, and also on Windows and Android devices. This means GoodNotes is available on more types of devices.
Which app do most people prefer, GoodNotes or Notability?
GoodNotes is generally seen as the better choice by most users online. People like its built-in flashcard feature for studying, its excellent recording and customer support, and its improved way of organizing files. Many users say GoodNotes has a cleaner and easier-to-use look.
