nb is a free, open-source, note-taking app that allows users to create and manage notes in a simple and intuitive way. It's designed to be minimalistic and distraction-free, making it ideal for users who want to focus on their writing.
fsnotes is a minimalistic note-taking app that allows users to organize their notes using tags and search functionality. It is designed to be simple and easy to use, making it a great option for students, professionals, and individuals who want to keep track of their thoughts and ideas.
- Minimalistic and distraction-free interface
- Highly customizable
- Supports Markdown syntax
- Available on multiple platforms
- Easy to use and navigate
- Minimalistic design reduces distractions
- Tag-based organization and searching capabilities
- Syncs notes across devices using iCloud and Dropbox integration
- Limited features compared to other note-taking apps
- No built-in collaboration features
- No mobile app
- Limited text formatting options
- No collaboration features
- macOS and iOS only - no Windows, Linux, Android or web version
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View all →The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth fsnotes and nb are free, open‑source desktop note‑taking apps; fsnotes offers iCloud/Dropbox sync, while nb provides Markdown and broader platform customization.
Key differences
- •Sync method: fsnotes integrates directly with iCloud and Dropbox; nb relies on generic cloud storage you configure yourself.
- •Formatting: fsnotes has basic text formatting; nb uses full Markdown support.
- •Customization: nb lets you change appearance and use keyboard shortcuts; fsnotes has a fixed minimalistic UI.
- •GitHub popularity: nb has slightly more stars (8,304 vs 7,427).
Pricing & value
Both are free, open‑source desktop apps offering comparable core note‑taking value.
Ease of use / learning curve
fsnotes provides a simple, intuitive interface with minimal setup, whereas nb requires Markdown knowledge and customization.
Features & depth
nb supports Markdown, notebooks, extensive appearance tweaks, and keyboard shortcuts; fsnotes offers only basic formatting.
Integrations & ecosystem
fsnotes directly syncs with iCloud and Dropbox; nb only syncs via any cloud service you set up.
Collaboration
Neither app includes built‑in collaboration features.
Support
nb offers email and GitHub Issues; fsnotes provides only email support.
Security & privacy
Both rely on external cloud services for sync; no specific security details provided.
Choose nb if…
Writers or students who want Markdown, deep customization, and cross‑platform flexibility.
Choose fsnotes if…
Students or professionals needing quick, hassle‑free sync via iCloud/Dropbox without Markdown.
Common questions
Is there any cost to use either app?
Both fsnotes and nb are free to download and use.
Can I collaborate with teammates in real time?
No, neither app includes built‑in collaboration features.
Which app offers better sync options out of the box?
fsnotes provides built‑in iCloud and Dropbox sync; nb requires you to configure a cloud storage service yourself.