Side by side
Apple Journal vs Diarly
Both stand on journal apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan iPhoneMac
Journal combines varied entry formats, organization tools and on-device suggestions in a free app. Check the iCloud backup limitation and the transcription locale restriction if either matters to your journaling routine.
Visit Apple Journal
Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac
Choose Diarly if you want a journal with offline editing, multiple entry formats, and several browsing views. Its free plan includes unlimited entries and media in one journal. Consider the encryption limits if protecting images or attachments is important to you.
Visit DiarlyThe facts
| Apple Journal | Diarly | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | iPhone, Mac | Android, iPhone, Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Maker | Apple Journal | Not published |
| Website | apple.com | diarly.app |
| On journal apps | #5 of 35 | #9 of 35 |
Apple Journal: what it does well
- Free app with a free plan.
- Entries support text, photos, video, audio, places and drawings.
- Search, sorting, calendars and location views are available.
- Suggestions are processed on device.
- Entries can be end-to-end encrypted in iCloud with the stated settings.
What to know first
- Entries are not included in iCloud backups.
- Audio transcription in English excludes Singapore and India locales.
- iCloud sync requires enabling iCloud.
Diarly: what it does well
- Free plan includes unlimited entries and media.
- Browse journals in calendar, map, gallery, timeline, and notes views.
- Works offline for journal access and editing.
- Can import activity, sleep, workout, and mindfulness data from Apple Health.
- Siri Shortcuts can add text and attachments to a daily note.
What to know first
- The free plan is limited to one journal.
- Premium encryption does not cover images, videos, or attachments.
- Encrypted entries cannot be recovered if the password is forgotten.
Alternatives to Apple Journal Alternatives to Diarly The whole list