Side by side
Microsoft OneNote vs Turtl
Both stand on note-taking apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac+2
OneNote combines note organization with sharing, collaboration, digital ink, and transcription across a broad set of platforms. Its free plan is an option, while Microsoft 365 plans add cloud storage and paid features.
Visit Microsoft OneNote Free plan Open source AndroidAPIExtension+4
Turtl combines collaborative Spaces, note organization, and on-device encryption, with self-hosting and profile export as additional options. Consider its invitation-security warning and stated HIPAA limitations when deciding whether it fits sensitive workflows.
Visit TurtlThe facts
| Microsoft OneNote | Turtl | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Mac, Web, Windows | Android, API, Extension, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | See the plans | Premium: $3 a month |
| Plans published | 5 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | microsoft.com | turtlapp.com |
| On note-taking apps | #5 of 216 | #1 of 216 |
Microsoft OneNote: what it does well
- Available on five listed platforms.
- Supports note sharing and real-time collaboration.
- Digital ink and voice transcription aid note capture.
- Free plan available.
What to know first
- Internet is required for installation and activation.
- After 31 offline days, editing and creation stop.
- Features may vary by device and platform.
Turtl: what it does well
- Supports five note types
- Spaces offer permissions from read-only to full ownership
- Works offline
- Full-profile import and export
- Open-source server can be self-hosted
What to know first
- Basic storage is 50MB
- Basic allows three collaborators per Space
- Email invitations can expose a Space if intercepted
- Turtl says it likely is not HIPAA compliant
Alternatives to Microsoft OneNote Alternatives to Turtl The whole list