Obsidian vs Apple Notes
Obsidian is local-first markdown note-taking app with bidirectional linking and a plugin ecosystem, while Apple Notes is built-in note-taking app for Apple devices with iCloud sync, folders, and basic formatting. Obsidian is built for individuals who want local-first, markdown-based notes, whereas Apple Notes targets apple users who want simple, synced notes.
| Feature | Obsidian | Apple Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Free tier available | ✓ | ✓ |
| Open source | — | — |
| Backlinks | ✓ | — |
| Folders | — | ✓ |
| Graph View | ✓ | — |
| Local Storage | ✓ | — |
| Markdown | ✓ | — |
| Plugins | ✓ | — |
| Quick Notes | — | ✓ |
| Scan Documents | — | ✓ |
| iCloud Sync | — | ✓ |
Pricing: Both Obsidian and Apple Notes are free, so this decision comes down to features and philosophy rather than budget.
Feature gaps: Obsidian offers Backlinks, Graph View and Local Storage that Apple Notes lacks. Apple Notes brings Folders, Quick Notes and Scan Documents that Obsidian does not have.
Team fit: Both tools target individuals teams, so the decision hinges on features and workflow fit rather than scale.
Where each tool shines: Obsidian's biggest strengths are: local-first — your notes are plain markdown files you own. powerful bidirectional linking and graph view. Apple Notes's biggest strengths are: includes icloud sync as a core feature, purpose-built for note taking workflows. includes folders as a core feature, purpose-built for note taking workflows.
Watch out for: With Obsidian, users commonly note that no real-time collaboration. With Apple Notes, the main complaint is that may lack some advanced features.
choose Obsidian if
- You need a tool built for individuals who want local-first, markdown-based notes
- You specifically need Backlinks and Graph View
- You care about powerful bidirectional linking and graph view
choose Apple Notes if
- You need a tool built for apple users who want simple, synced notes
- You specifically need Folders and Quick Notes
- You care about includes folders as a core feature, purpose-built for note taking workflows
frequently asked
What is the difference between Obsidian and Apple Notes?
Obsidian is local-first markdown note-taking app with bidirectional linking and a plugin ecosystem, while Apple Notes is built-in note-taking app for Apple devices with iCloud sync, folders, and basic formatting. Obsidian is built for individuals who want local-first, markdown-based notes, whereas Apple Notes targets apple users who want simple, synced notes.
Should I use Obsidian or Apple Notes?
Obsidian is built for individuals who want local-first, markdown-based notes. Apple Notes is built for apple users who want simple, synced notes. Pick the one that fits.
When should I choose Obsidian over Apple Notes?
Choose Obsidian if You need a tool built for individuals who want local-first, markdown-based notes; You specifically need Backlinks and Graph View; You care about powerful bidirectional linking and graph view.
When should I choose Apple Notes over Obsidian?
Choose Apple Notes if You need a tool built for apple users who want simple, synced notes; You specifically need Folders and Quick Notes; You care about includes folders as a core feature, purpose-built for note taking workflows.
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