Comparison · Note-taking apps
Joplin vs Microsoft OneNote: which is better in 2026?
Microsoft OneNote ranks higher in our list of note-taking apps (#3 against #4, score 88.5 against 87.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need.
Choose Joplin if you want
Open-source notes with end-to-end encrypted sync.
The open-source choice here, AGPL-licensed, covering desktop, mobile and terminal with end-to-end encrypted sync. Its interface is plainer than the commercial apps, and sharing runs through Joplin Cloud.
Choose Microsoft OneNote if you want
Free mixed-media notebooks across Windows and Apple.
A free notebook that runs on Windows, Apple devices, Android and the web, with pen and drawing support. Its canvas pages suit sketches more than plain typed notes.
The main differences
- Only Joplin runs on Linux.
- Only Microsoft OneNote runs on Web.
- Joplin is open source; Microsoft OneNote is not.
Side by side
 Joplin |  Microsoft OneNote | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 87.0 | 88.5 |
| Rank in list | #4 of 9 | #3 of 9 |
| Price | Free and open sourceFree and open source; Joplin Cloud is an optional hosted service | FreeFree to download; the App Store lists in-app purchases |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | No |
| Platforms | WindowsmacOSLinuxAndroidiOSCommand lineWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Command line | WindowsmacOSiOS, iPadOSAndroidWebWindows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, Android, Web |
| Made by | Laurent Cozic | Microsoft |
| Notes stored | Local, optional sync | Microsoft cloud |
| Shared editing | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Open-source notes with end-to-end encrypted sync | Free mixed-media notebooks across Windows and Apple |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about Joplin vs Microsoft OneNote
- Is Microsoft OneNote better than Joplin?
- Microsoft OneNote ranks higher in our list of note-taking apps (#3 against #4, score 88.5 against 87.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need. Joplin is best for: open-source notes with end-to-end encrypted sync. Microsoft OneNote is best for: free mixed-media notebooks across Windows and Apple.
- Which is cheaper, Joplin or Microsoft OneNote?
- Joplin: Free and open source; Joplin Cloud is an optional hosted service. Microsoft OneNote: Free to download; the App Store lists in-app purchases.
- Do Joplin and Microsoft OneNote run on the same platforms?
- Joplin supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Command line. Microsoft OneNote supports Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, Android, Web.