Joplin vs Bear

Updated February 2026

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Joplin is an open-source note-taking and to-do app founded in 2017, designed for users who value privacy and cross-platform compatibility. It supports syncing via services like Dropbox and OneDrive, making it ideal for tech-savvy individuals or teams needing flexible, self-hosted options without vendor lock-in. Bear, launched in 2016, focuses on beautiful, flexible writing for Apple devices like iPhone, iPad, and Mac. It's suited for writers, creatives, and Apple ecosystem users who prioritize elegant markdown editing and seamless iCloud integration for a polished, distraction-free experience.

Both Joplin and Bear offer free versions with core note-taking capabilities, including file sharing and mobile apps, but lack advanced features like Kanban boards, Gantt charts, time tracking, calendars, automations, or AI assistants. Joplin's integrations emphasize cloud storage options such as Dropbox, OneDrive, Nextcloud, WebDAV, and a Firefox clipper for web content capture, appealing to users with diverse sync needs. Bear integrates with Apple-centric tools like iCloud, Raycast, Shortcuts, Drafts, and Things, enhancing workflow within the macOS/iOS environment.

Pricing starts at $1.99 for Joplin's cloud subscription, providing an affordable entry for sync features. Bear charges $2.99 per month, which may suit users invested in premium Apple experiences. Ratings are close, with Joplin at 4.7 and Bear at 4.8, indicating strong user satisfaction. Joplin's open-source nature allows for customization and no-cost self-hosting, while Bear delivers a more refined, aesthetic interface tailored to Apple hardware.

Our Verdict

Choose Joplin if you're seeking an open-source, cost-effective note-taking app with broad cloud integrations and cross-platform support, especially on non-Apple devices. Opt for Bear if you're deep in the Apple ecosystem and value a sleek, markdown-focused writing tool with native integrations, justifying the slightly higher monthly fee for its polished design.

Try Joplin → Try Bear →

Feature Comparison

Feature Joplin Bear
Kanban Board
Gantt Chart
Time Tracking
File Sharing
Calendar View
Mobile App
Automation
AI Assistant

Pricing Comparison

Joplin

Starting Price
Free tier available · Paid from $1.99/mo
Pricing Model
cloud subscription

Bear

Starting Price
Free tier available · Paid from $2.99/mo
Pricing Model
per month

Frequently Asked Questions

Which app is better for users outside the Apple ecosystem?
Joplin, with its open-source design and integrations like Dropbox and OneDrive, supports broader cross-platform use compared to Bear's Apple-focused setup.
How do the pricing models compare for premium features?
Joplin starts at $1.99 for cloud subscription, while Bear is $2.99 per month; both have free tiers, but Joplin offers a lower entry point.
Do either support advanced project management features?
Neither has Kanban, Gantt, time tracking, or automations; they're strictly for note-taking with file sharing and mobile apps.
Which has better integrations for web clipping?
Joplin includes a Firefox clipper, while Bear relies on Apple tools like Shortcuts; choose based on your browser and device preferences.
Is one rated higher by users?
Bear edges out with a 4.8 rating versus Joplin's 4.7, likely due to its elegant interface for Apple users.

Ready to Get Started?

Joplin

Open source note-taking and to-do application.

Try Joplin →

Bear

Beautiful, flexible writing notes for iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Try Bear →

Read the Full Reviews