Top Xournal++ Alternatives for Enhanced Note-Taking and PDF Annotation
Xournal++ has long been a go-to handwriting notetaking software, beloved for its robust PDF annotation support, cross-platform compatibility (Linux, macOS, Windows), and features like pen pressure sensitivity, LaTeX support, and customizable toolbars. However, even the most powerful tools have situations where an alternative might be a better fit. Whether you're seeking different platform support, specific features, or a refreshed user experience, exploring Xournal++ alternatives can lead you to the perfect digital notebook.
Top Xournal++ Alternatives
If you're looking to branch out from Xournal++ or need a solution that better aligns with your workflow, these alternatives offer compelling features for note-taking, PDF annotation, and more.
Microsoft OneNote
Microsoft OneNote is a versatile digital notebook application, perfect for gathering notes and information in one place. As a freemium offering available across Mac, Windows, Android, iPhone, iPad, and more, it's a strong Xournal++ alternative for those deeply integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem. Key features include hierarchical structure, handwritten notes, robust cloud sync, drawing tools, and powerful search capabilities, making it ideal for comprehensive knowledge management.
Foxit Reader
Foxit Reader is a free PDF software that excels at creating, annotating, sharing, and collaborating on PDF documents. Available on Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iPhone, it serves as a lightweight yet feature-rich Xournal++ alternative for PDF-centric workflows. Its strengths lie in PDF annotation, form filling, and signing capabilities, along with text highlighting and support for multiple languages.
Skim
Skim is a free, open-source PDF reader and note-taker specifically designed for macOS. It's an excellent Xournal++ alternative for Mac users who primarily work with scientific papers or need a clean, lightweight application for viewing and annotating PDFs. Skim allows users to export annotations and offers a straightforward notetaking experience.
xournal
Xournal, the application Xournal++ was forked from, is a free and open-source option for notetaking, sketching, and journaling with a stylus on Linux and Windows. For users who appreciate the core functionality of Xournal++ but prefer a simpler, more classic interface or are looking for the original codebase, Xournal is a direct and capable Xournal++ alternative, offering handwritten notes and PDF annotation, with Wacom tablet support.
PDF Expert
PDF Expert is a commercial application for Mac, iPhone, and iPad that enables users to read, annotate, and edit PDF documents seamlessly. It's a strong Xournal++ alternative for Apple users seeking advanced PDF features, including file compression, form filling, and integration with services like Dropbox. Its highlighter and editing tools make it a powerful choice for professional PDF workflows.
GoodNotes
GoodNotes offers a natural writing experience for handwritten notes on iPhone and iPad, making it a premium Xournal++ alternative for iOS users. This commercial app boasts features like Apple Pencil support, handwriting recognition (OCR), integrated search, and seamless iCloud sync. Its ability to import and annotate PDFs, combined with a robust notebook system, makes it highly appealing for digital notetakers.
Stylus Labs Write
Stylus Labs Write is a free word processor designed for handwriting, primarily for tablets with an active stylus. Available on Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iPad, it's a unique Xournal++ alternative for those who prefer a vector drawing application's functionality combined with note-taking. It supports handwritten notes, Wacom tablets, and allows for PDF export.
ThinkSpace : Mind Map & Note
ThinkSpace: Mind Map & Note is a freemium tool for iPhone and iPad, geared towards creative thinking and organization. While not a direct handwriting replacement for Xournal++, it serves as an excellent alternative for users who benefit from brainstorming, mind mapping, and flow charting alongside their notes. Its focus on visual organization and pencil support complements digital notetaking workflows.
NoteLab
NoteLab is a free and open-source application available on Linux, Windows, and Mac OS X, designed to mimic writing with a pen on real paper. For those seeking a cross-platform Xournal++ alternative that prioritizes the natural feel of handwritten notes and journaling, NoteLab provides a straightforward and intuitive sketching and notetaking environment.
MrWriter_PDF
MrWriter_PDF is a free and open-source fork of MrWriter, available on Windows and Linux. It enhances the original with the ability to annotate PDF files, making it a capable Xournal++ alternative for users primarily focused on handwritten notes and PDF annotation on these platforms. It offers core notetaking features within an open-source framework.
Exploring these Xournal++ alternatives reveals a diverse landscape of tools, each with unique strengths. Whether you prioritize deep integration with a specific OS, advanced PDF manipulation, a truly natural writing feel, or open-source flexibility, there's likely a perfect fit for your digital note-taking and annotation needs. Experiment with a few to discover which one truly enhances your productivity.