Format with Markdown
Apply structured formatting through shortcuts or familiar Markdown syntax.
Productivity & notes
Writing & Content
Bear
Writers and meticulous note-takers reach for Bear when they want a fast, attractive Markdown notebook organized around tags rather than folders.
Runs on
macOS
iOS
Available on
App Store
Built for
Developers
Education
Everyday Users
Overview
What is Bear?
One library, few distractions
Bear keeps notes in a single library and makes tags the main navigation. Pinning and archiving separate current material from reference notes, while the restrained editor works equally well for quick capture and longer prose. It suits people willing to adopt its filing model rather than recreate a conventional folder tree.
Getting comfortable with Bear
- Start small: import a few existing documents and establish only the top-level tags you need.
- Learn the shortcuts: most formatting can be applied without leaving the keyboard.
- Shape the archive: use pinned notes for active material and archive completed work.
Free or Pro
| Plan | What changes |
|---|---|
| Free | Core editor and local storage, with no device sync. |
| Pro, $2.99/month or $29.99/year | Adds iCloud sync, all themes, more export options, and encryption. |
One Pro subscription works across the Mac, iPhone, and iPad versions tied to the same Apple account.
Capabilities
Key features
Link related notes
Build connections with wiki links, backlinks, and note titles.
Attach files and sketches
Keep images, documents, drawings, and text together.
Track inline tasks
Add checkboxes and collect unfinished tasks in one view.
Encrypt sensitive notes
Protect selected notes with passwords and biometric authentication.
Keep exploring
Teams also considered
Researchers, writers, developers, and students reach for Obsidian when they want a personal knowledge system they can shape themselves. It excels at connecting long-lived notes without forcing them into a fixed database or cloud workspace.
Researchers, professionals and everyday organizers reach for Evernote when they need one searchable place for notes, web research, scans and long-term reference material.
Microsoft OneNote is a cross-platform digital notebook for collecting typed notes, handwriting, images, files, and web material. It is particularly good at keeping years of class, meeting, or research notes in familiar binder-style folders.
Still weighing your options?
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