Let’s be real—finding the perfect productivity app can feel like searching for that one missing sock in the laundry. There are tons of options, but three always seem to make it to the top of the list: Notion vs Evernote vs OneNote. Here are the lessons I’ve learned from alternating between Notion, Evernote, and OneNote over the years while attempting to organize my notes, to-do lists, and big ideas.
Notion: The Custom Playground
If you enjoy tinkering, organizing, and customizing everything, Notion is akin to digital Lego. Seriously, you can build anything—task lists, reading logs, habit trackers, even a personal wiki about your dog if you want (I won’t judge).
Why people love it:
- You can start with a blank page and end up with a whole dashboard.
- Tons of templates to steal—no need to start from scratch.
- It’s ideal for collaborating, whether you’re planning a project with friends or sharing recipes with your roommate.
But be warned:
All that freedom can be overwhelming. The first time I opened Notion, I spent an hour just poking around. If you want something that works “out of the box,” it takes a little patience to set up.
Want to learn more about how Notion compares with other productivity apps? Check out PCMag’s in-depth productivity app comparison.
Evernote: The Reliable Old Friend
When it comes to Notion vs Evernote vs OneNote, Evernote stands out as the classic note-taking solution that just works. It’s the kind of app that quietly does its job—you jot down notes, clip web pages, and everything gets sorted away.
Why people love it:
- The web clipper is a lifesaver.
- The search is crazy excellent. Lost that recipe you scribbled down two months ago? Evernote will find it—even if it’s handwritten.
- Perfect if you want “notes, but organized.”
But be warned:
Evernote keeps things simple. If you want to track projects or build a dashboard, you might find it a bit basic. But for many folks, that’s a plus.
OneNote: The Digital Binder
In the Notion vs Evernote vs OneNote debate, OneNote wins hearts with its digital notebook feel. It’s like having a binder with dividers for every subject, but on your device. You can scribble, type, or drop in pictures wherever you want.
Why people love it:
- Free-form notes: Want to doodle in the margins? Go for it.
- Especially useful for stylus or tablet users.
- Seamless integration with Microsoft apps.
But be warned:
If you’re not careful, your notes can turn into a digital junk drawer. And if you’re not using Microsoft 365, you might miss out on some features.
You may also like to read: Remote Work Hacks: Tools and Tips for Staying Connected
The Bottom Line
When comparing Notion vs Evernote vs OneNote, each app serves different needs:
- Choose Notion if you want to build your own system and love customization.
- Pick Evernote if you just want a dependable, simple place for your notes and ideas.
- Try OneNote if you like the feel of a notebook and want to scribble, sketch, or organize your thoughts freely.
My advice? Test-drive each for a week. You’ll know pretty quickly which one “clicks” with how your brain works. At the end of the day, the best productivity app is the one you’ll actually use.