The short version
Apple Notes is great for quick everyday notes. If you want to write in markdown and link ideas together, atiea gives you that in a native Mac app.
atiea vs Apple Notes at a glance
| Feature | atiea | Apple Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Markdown | Apple’s rich-text format |
| Markdown typing | Yes, with live highlighting | Not converted as you type |
| Wiki links and backlinks | Built in | Not a core feature |
| Tags | Type #tag anywhere | Supported |
| Sync | None yet: iCloud sync is coming with the iPhone and iPad app | iCloud |
| Export | Markdown, HTML, PDF, DOCX | Limited, and not markdown-based storage |
| Cost and availability | See the download page | Built in to Apple devices |
Feature descriptions for Apple Notes are summaries. Products change, so check their own site for current details.
Choose atiea if…
- You want to write in markdown
- You want linked notes
- You want portable, plain-text notes
Choose Apple Notes if…
- You want zero setup and mobile access
- Your notes are mostly lists and quick captures
- You share notes with other Apple users
Switching from Apple Notes to atiea
- Apple Notes does not store notes as markdown, so copy the text of a note into a new atiea note and add markdown formatting where you want it.
- atiea does not currently have a bulk import feature, so move notes over gradually, starting with the ones you write in most.
- Keep Apple Notes for quick lists and anything you need on iPhone.
Where atiea is not the right fit
- atiea is Mac-only today, so notes will not appear on an iPhone or iPad until its iPhone and iPad app arrives.
- Apple Notes is free and built in; check atiea’s download page for current availability and pricing.
Related reading
More comparisons
Frequently asked questions
Does Apple Notes support markdown?
Not natively. See our guide: Does Apple Notes support markdown?
What is the best Apple Notes alternative for Mac?
If you want markdown, linking and plain-text portability, atiea is a native option.
Start writing something calm.
A native Mac app for markdown notes.
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