Side by side
Apple Journal vs Grid Diary
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
Grid Diary offers structured journaling with prompts, planning periods, media attachments and flexible exports. The free plan enables entry, while memberships add synchronization and other listed features across devices.
Visit Grid DiaryThe facts
| Apple Journal | Grid Diary | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | iPhone, Mac | Android, iPhone, Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Annual membership: $22.99 a year |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Maker | Apple Journal | Grid Diary |
| Website | apple.com | griddiaryapp.com |
| On journal apps | #5 of 35 | #16 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.
Grid Diary: what it does well
- Free plan available
- Weekly, monthly and yearly diaries
- Markdown editor with rich preview
- Photo attachments and mood stickers
- PDF, Markdown and JPG exports
What to know first
- End-to-end encryption is not provided
- Membership is needed for listed subscription features
- Service is intended for adults at least 18
- Collected data may include usage and location data
Alternatives to Apple Journal Alternatives to Grid Diary The whole list