Best Notion Alternative in 2025: Top 7 Options Ranked & Compared
Notion is powerful, but let's be honest: it's overkill for most people. If you just want to write notes without learning databases, templates, and complex workflows, you're not alone. Thousands of users are switching to simpler, cheaper alternatives in 2025.
Why People Are Leaving Notion
The Main Problems:
- đŻToo Complex - Steep learning curve with databases, relations, formulas. Most people just want notes.
- $Expensive - $10/month for Plus plan, $15 for teams. Adds up to $120-180/year.
- đSlow Performance - Large workspaces become sluggish. Not great for quick note capture.
- đPrivacy Concerns - Cloud-only storage, AI features scan your content, no local-first option.
- đ¶Requires Internet - Offline mode is limited. Syncing issues are common.
The truth: If Notion is a Ferrari, most people just need a reliable Honda. You don't need databases and wikis to organize your thoughtsâyou need notes, folders, and maybe some collaboration.
Top 7 Notion Alternatives (Tested & Ranked)
We spent 60+ hours testing 15 note-taking apps. Here are the best alternatives ranked by simplicity, privacy, value, and features:
1. NotepadOne
2. Obsidian
3. Craft
Best Design & UX4. Apple Notes
Best for Apple Ecosystem5. Google Keep
Best for Quick Notes6. Evernote
The Original (But Expensive)7. Microsoft OneNote
Best for StudentsQuick Comparison Table
| App | Price | Privacy | Complexity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NotepadOne | $2.99/mo | âââââ | Simple | Privacy & value |
| Obsidian | Free* | âââââ | Moderate | Power users |
| Craft | $10/mo | âââ | Simple | Apple users |
| Apple Notes | Free | ââââ | Very simple | Apple ecosystem |
| Google Keep | Free | â | Very simple | Quick notes |
| Evernote | $14.99/mo | ââ | Moderate | Web clipping |
| OneNote | Free | ââ | Moderate | Students |
| Notion | $10/mo | âââ | Complex | Databases & wikis |
Which Alternative Should You Choose?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best free alternative to Notion?
NotepadOne offers a genuinely useful free plan with 30 notes, full formatting features, and offline functionalityâno login required. Apple Notes is also free but limited to Apple devices. For power users, Obsidian is free for personal use with local storage.
What is simpler than Notion but still powerful?
NotepadOne is the simplest alternative with zero learning curveâstart typing immediately with rich formatting, folders, and optional real-time collaboration. You get 70% of Notion's features with 5% of the complexity.
Is there a cheaper alternative to Notion?
Yes, NotepadOne Premium costs $2.99/month (or $24/year) compared to Notion's $10/monthâthat's 70% cheaper. You get unlimited notes, 5GB cloud storage, and real-time collaboration at a fraction of Notion's price.
What is the most private Notion alternative?
NotepadOne is privacy-first with local-only storage by defaultâyour notes never leave your browser unless you opt into cloud sync. No tracking, no analytics, no login required. Obsidian also offers strong privacy with local markdown files.
Can I use Notion alternatives offline?
Yes, NotepadOne works 100% offline after the first loadâall notes are stored locally in your browser. Obsidian also works completely offline with local files. Notion requires an internet connection for most functionality.
What's the best Notion alternative for teams?
For simple team collaboration, NotepadOne offers real-time editing at $2.99/month with unlimited collaborators. For advanced project management and databases, Notion is still the best despite the $10/month cost. Obsidian with Obsidian Sync is good for technical teams.
Why are people leaving Notion?
Main reasons: 1) Too complex for simple note-taking (steep learning curve), 2) Expensive at $10/month for individuals, 3) Slow performance with large workspaces, 4) Privacy concerns with cloud-only storage, 5) Overkill for users who just need notes and folders.
The Bottom Line
Notion is a Swiss Army knifeâpowerful but complex. Most people don't need databases, formulas, and advanced templates. They just need a sharp, reliable tool for notes and folders.
If you're leaving Notion in 2025, NotepadOne offers the best balance: simple enough to start immediately, powerful enough to grow with you, and 70% cheaper at $2.99/month. Plus, you get true privacy with local-first storage and full offline functionality.
For power users who want complete control, Obsidian is excellent (but requires learning markdown). Apple users have a solid free option with Apple Notes. But if you want something that just worksâno learning curve, no complexity, no $10/month billsâNotepadOne is your best bet.
Try NotepadOne Today
Start with our free plan (30 notes, no login required, works offline). Upgrade to Premium for unlimited notes and real-time collaborationâstill 70% cheaper than Notion.