Side by side
Flowing vs yWriter
Both stand on 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 MacWindows
Flowing combines source-linked retrieval, citation tools, and academic writing features in a desktop workspace. Review its AI data handling and evidence-check limits before choosing a paid tier.
Visit Flowing Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+2
Choose yWriter if you want a free desktop novel-writing tool with chapter-and-scene organization, offline mode and publishing tools. Its Android and iOS apps add mobile editing, with different project compatibility and transfer details for each; Linux desktop use is through Wine.
Visit yWriterThe facts
| Flowing | yWriter | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | No |
| Runs on | Mac, Windows | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Go: $5 a month | Android app: $5.49, paid once |
| Plans published | 7 | 11 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | flowing.works | spacejock.com |
| On writing apps | #55 of 135 | #51 of 135 |
Flowing: what it does well
- Rich-text and LaTeX editor with PDF preview
- Stores and indexes PDFs locally by default
- Recall links passages to original pages
- Bibliography citations inserted with @
- Free plan available
What to know first
- AI requests can send manuscript context externally
- Evidence checks do not guarantee completeness
- Published retention commitments are not yet available
- Automatic web recommendations are off by default
yWriter: what it does well
- Desktop software is free.
- Organizes novels into chapters and scenes.
- Includes version history and offline mode.
- Offers publishing tools and extensive export formats.
- Mobile apps edit novels in chapters and scenes.
What to know first
- Linux use is through Wine.
- No prices are stated for Android or iOS.
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