#8 in Productivity & Notes

Jotter review

A fast notes app with lists, handwriting and voice notes

  • The Big Head
  • Free
  • iPhone & iPad
8.4
Our score Very good Updated October 2026

Does it deserve #8?

0

The verdict

Jotter is built around one idea: open it and start typing. The first line names the note and it saves as you go. Checklists, Apple Pencil handwriting, scans and voice notes live in the same note, and search reads the text inside pictures and handwriting on the device. It lacks the linking and plugins of Obsidian, but as a free, private everyday notepad it is quick and pleasant.

  • Checklists that sink ticked items
  • Apple Pencil and finger handwriting
  • On-device search of photos and scans
  • Markdown export of every note
  • No ads
  • No account needed
  • Works offline
  • No subscription

Score breakdown

FeaturesHow much it does, and how well those features hold up in daily use.
7.4
DesignClarity, polish, accessibility and how quickly you get things done.
8.2
PerformanceSpeed, reliability, sync and how kind it is to your battery.
8.5
ValueWhat you get for what you pay, including how useful the free tier is.
9.5
PrivacyWhat it collects, who it shares with, encryption and the business model.
9.5

Overall = features 30% · design 20% · speed 20% · value 15% · privacy 15%. Why these weights?

What we like

  • No titles, folders or save buttons to slow you down
  • Handwriting and voice notes are searchable on the device
  • Free, no account, synced through your own iCloud

What could be better

  • Apple devices only, with no Mac or web app
  • No backlinks, plugins or collaboration
Get it if you're

iPhone and iPad users who want a quick, private notepad with handwriting

Skip it if

you want a linked knowledge base or need notes on Windows or Android

Questions about Jotter

Is Jotter free?

Yes. Jotter is free on the App Store with no subscription and no ads.

Can I export my notes from Jotter?

Yes. You can export every note as Markdown with its pictures, one folder per Jotter folder.

What are the best alternatives to Jotter?

The closest alternatives are Obsidian, Evernote and Microsoft OneNote. See all of them ranked on our Jotter alternatives page.

Where does Jotter rank?

Jotter ranks #8 of 10 in our Productivity & Notes ranking, with an overall score of 8.4 out of 10.

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