Note-taking apps for Mac
Notes are the longest-lived data most people own, so the format matters more than the interface. These apps either store plain markdown on disk or export to it cleanly.
ObsidianKnowledge base that works on top of a local folder of plain text Markdown filesNotionApp to write, plan, collaborate, and get organisedZoteroCollect, organise, cite, and share research sourcesTyporaConfigurable document editor that supports MarkdownbearGenerate compilation database for clang toolingJoplinNote taking and to-do application with synchronisation capabilitiesLogseqPrivacy-first, open-source platform for knowledge sharing and managementAnytypeLocal-first and end-to-end encrypted notes appCraftNative document editorStandard NotesFree, open-source, and completely encrypted notes app
Install the whole list
One command per app. Paste them as a block to set up a new Mac:
How this list was chosen
Each collection is curated by hand, then filtered against the live Homebrew catalogue so removed or deprecated apps drop out automatically. Ordering follows 30-day install counts, not paid placement. Data updated 2026-10-26.