Drafts vs Noto

This app helps one get a lot done on the iPad (or iPhone) that wouldn't be possible otherwise---even the free version. Paying a subscription has been worth it too. You just have to try it to see how it might be useful to you personally and if that justifies the price. I do less with the tag and workspace features than I perhaps could because I tend to use Bear for reference. Fortunately, there are users who know how to script and have come up with actions to make Drafts play well with Bear. Ditto other apps, including email. In the end, Drafts is kind of like a work environment in which one can begin all work with text. It's also good for cleaning up text from other sources. I have loved this app through several versions. One reason, I suspect, is because it continues to test the boundaries of what is possible in iOS. And one can actually customize one's work environment a bit. In other words, the app takes both the operating system and the user seriously. The subscription model has also led to a viable business plan, it seems, whereas I've seen other solid apps go neglected or get killed off for lack of ongoing funding and attention in a constantly changing computing environment and app market.

- Mark Stoneman

I’ve been using drafts since version 4 came out. It changed the way I work, and I love using it to enter and manipulate text. I’ve been playing around with Drafts 5 and the app is amazing. There’s so much power in the free app, and the pro subscriptions adds some great options for power users. Thing is, I’m not a power user, but I’m more than willing to pay for the features I use. My biggest issue is that I dislike and avoid app subscriptions. I like that when I pay for an app, even if the company disappears tomorrow, I can continue to use the app for years to come. I’m also not thrilled that dark mode is behind the subscription wall, I’d pay a few dollars to have a dark mode, I find it much easier on my eyes, but can’t justify the subscription just for dark mode, since it’s the only tool I would use from the subscription. Fortunately, I can continue using drafts 4 with its dark mode. Sure, I’ll miss out on all the new features in the free app, but that’s how much I dislike day mode. Just writing this review is burning my eyes. But my issues say nothing about the app itself which is wonderful. Definitely give the free mode a spin, and if you like scripting and having full control and aren’t opposed to renting apps, the sub is a great value. But for me it’s less than ideal as it’s currently set up. Hopefully down the line, the developer will consider making dark mode an optional in app purchase for those that don’t or can’t subscribe.

- budexxon

I never thought I needed an app like this, then I hear them talk about it all the time on Mac Power Users and Automators podcast so I thought I would give it a try. It seems overwhelming at first with all of the options but once you configure a few actions you’ll never go back. There is enough free to the app that you could use it without the IAP - I wouldn’t recommend it though, the customizable nature of the app is unlocked when you subscribe. Also, this dude is an indie dev so there isn’t multi unicorn level of funding keeping this product alive - you’re literally making this viable for him, so hit subscribe - you’ll thank me later. Also, the quick dictate function on the watch is a GAME CHANGER. Tap the complication, tap the microphone and record your thought. Then when you have time to process, open the app on your iPhone/Mac and manipulate the text with the actions. It literally lets you dump what you’re thinking into an app with the least amount of friction. The best part is the text isn’t stuck in this app, which is the whole point. Give it a go!

- Kguy18

This is the best note organizing app I’ve worked with yet. I was a longtime Evernote user and then have used Bear hardcore for the last two years, but needed more organization than tags can provide. My choices came down to Notion, Craft and Noto. Noto wins for my purposes. Notion is too clunky and Craft doesn’t allow for manual organization of notes only sorted lists. Noto not only allows for manual sorting, but makes it instant, intuitive and fun. As I organize thoughts and documents, that is what I want. Now as for room for growth, I would like to see expanded export options. Getting imported content into Noto is a snap, but getting it out seems to be a note by note affair, no group exports. This needs to happen to make this a serious app and is really the only weak spot of great magnitude. Cosmetically, I would like to see more color options for folders and notes, but it’s no deal breaker. The short: the more I use it, the more I like it.

- Campfly

I have been looking for a Note taking app that would suffice for my everyday note taking and markdown needs, luckily I came across this one. Thus far, this app has exceeded in every criteria I feel like other note apps are slacking in. Feature packed app that is easy to use and easy to understand. I particularly love the option to add and export codes with an array of programming languages available to choose from. This app really separates itself from other note taking apps with it’s simplicity and wonderful UI. The app is super affordable plus you get your money’s worth. I highly recommend this app.

- javaneOraneBrown

The design is amazing, so useful and simple, I purchased the life time version after 10 minutes using the app it’s just awesome! I love that it has iPad, iPhone and Mac versions! I looked for the app like this forever. Soooo many features! Perfect for business and personal stuff! Thanks to the creators!!! If these features could be added, the app would be priceless: - change color of the text, being able to apply highlight but keep the text black, more highlight colors.. - add more forlder colors, maybe custom colors, backgrounds... - if i could import my table to excel (or excel file not just pdf) with one piece or copy info from excel and fill out the table in noto - if I can see the table more far away on the iPad - if I could view what folders I have inside my main folders on the home page instead of opening them all to get to the document - if I could change the background of the page itself or when I look at my files so I know the categories without folders like in Google Notes - create a project, reminder and a due date like in Asana

- pp071