Side by side
Anytype vs Bear
Both stand on note and writing apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidExtensioniPhone+3
Anytype combines structured editing, databases, offline use, and device-focused privacy. Its free plan lowers the entry barrier, while API users should consider the documented stability limitation of v2.
Visit Anytype
Free plan APIExtensioniPhone+2
Bear offers a capable free local-note option and a Pro tier for sync, security, OCR, and extra exports. Its strongest fit is for users working within Apple’s ecosystem.
Visit BearThe facts
| Anytype | Bear | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows | API, Extension, iPhone, Mac, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Bear Pro (yearly): $29.99 a year |
| Plans published | 2 | 4 |
| Maker | Anytype | Not published |
| Website | anytype.io | bear.app |
| On note and writing apps | #1 of 32 | #2 of 32 |
Anytype: what it does well
- Free plan available
- Offline vault stored on device
- On-device encryption with user-held keys
- Peer-to-peer local-network sync
- Multiple database views
What to know first
- API v2 is pre-release
- API v2 may change without a new version
- Pro and Builder prices are unlisted
- Not open source
Bear: what it does well
- Offline note access
- Markdown editor with photos, tables, and to-do lists
- Flexible tags and foldable sections
- Free local notes and document scanning
- Pro offers OCR and expanded exports
What to know first
- Free plan has no iCloud sync
- OCR search requires Bear Pro
- Browser clipper requires the Bear app
- Note titles and tag names remain unencrypted