Best Apps For Writers
Alternatives to Google Docs & Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word and Google Docs are household names to the majority of writers worldwide, but they’re not the only options available. Writers today have access to a variety of apps to boost creativity, streamline productivity, and organize ideas.
The sheer variety makes it harder to pick the right one that's just for you. If you're searching for the right tool, this guide breaks down the pros and cons of 11 apps for writers to help you find your perfect fit.
Fortelling
Mobioffice
Ellipsus
Notion
Zohonotes
Obsidian
Clickup
Writerplus
Writerjournal
Litewriter
Purewriter
+ Bonus tools
1. Fortelling (Freemium)
Pros:
Designed specifically for storytelling, with features like character creation and plot outlining.
Enables collaboration for co-writing projects.
User-friendly templates for structured storytelling.
Cons:
Limited functionality in the free version; premium access is required for advanced tools and web version.
Focuses heavily on fiction writing, which might not suit poets or essayists.
2. Mobioffice (Freemium)
Pros:
Supports offline writing and cloud syncing.
Compatible with popular formats like Word and PDF.
Straightforward tool for drafting.
Cons:
Lacks real-time collaboration and editing tools.
Not tailored for creative or long-form writing.
3. Ellipsus (Free)
Available only on the Web.
Pros
Streamlined Collaboration: It integrates writing, editing, and feedback in one place, reducing workflow fragmentation.
User Control: Writers retain ownership of their content without AI interference.
Intuitive Design: Features like dark mode and chat within documents enhance user experience.
Cons
Limited Features: Some users may find it lacks advanced formatting options and customization.
Beta Limitations: As a beta product, it may have bugs or incomplete features that could affect usability.
4. Notion (Freemium)
Pros:
Fully customizable platform for organizing research, ideas, and writing tasks.
Allows collaboration and integrates with other productivity tools.
Robust free version.
Cons:
Steep learning curve for new users.
Can feel overwhelming if used solely for writing.
5. Zoho Notes (Freemium)
Pros:
Easy-to-use note-taking app with support for multimedia elements like images and audio.
Syncs across devices and integrates with other Zoho tools.
Great for quick idea capturing.
Cons:
Limited formatting options make it unsuitable for long drafts.
Offline functionality is basic.
Issues syncing across platforms
6. Obsidian
Pros:
Markdown-based note-taking, ideal for connecting ideas like a personal wiki.
Excellent for research-heavy projects or world-building.
Works offline and prioritizes data privacy.
Cons:
Minimalistic interface might feel too barebones for some writers.
Requires plugins to unlock its full potential.
7. ClickUp (Freemium)
Pros:
Comprehensive task management system that helps track writing goals.
Collaboration tools for team projects.
Highly customizable workflows.
Cons:
Overly complex for solo writers focused solely on drafting.
Requires setup to fully utilize its features.
8. WriterPlus (Free)
Pros:
Lightweight and distraction-free writing tool.
Works offline, making it ideal for uninterrupted writing.
Free and ad-free.
Cons:
Basic formatting tools only.
No syncing or advanced organizational capabilities.
9. Writer Journal (Freemium)
Pros:
Simplistic journaling app for reflective and personal writing.
Easy to use with an intuitive interface.
Great for practicing freewriting.
Cons:
Not suitable for structured projects like novels.
Lacks export and editing features.
10. LiteWriter
Pros:
Minimalist design for focused writing.
Supports exporting in commonly used formats.
Perfect for short writing sessions.
Cons:
No cloud sync or collaboration options.
Limited editing features.
11. PureWriter (Freemium)
Pros:
Clean, distraction-free interface.
Automatic backups to prevent data loss.
Excellent for writers who work on mobile devices.
Cons:
Advanced features require a paid upgrade.
Few formatting tools; better suited for drafting than publishing.
Bonus
Pinterest (Free)
Pros:
Excellent resource for visual inspiration and mood boards.
Easy organization through pins and boards.
Free to use.
Cons:
Not designed as a writing tool.
Distractions from unrelated content are common.
Canva (Freemium)
Pros:
Powerful design platform for creating book covers, promotional materials, and visuals.
Simple drag-and-drop interface.
Free version offers ample features.
Cons:
Not suitable for drafting or organizing writing.
Advanced design templates require a premium subscription.
Which App Is Right for You?
For distraction-free drafting: WriterPlus, LiteWriter, PureWriter, WriterJournal, Zohonotes
For organizing and managing ideas: Notion, Obsidian, ClickUp.
For visual inspiration: Pinterest, Canva.
For complete writing workflows: Fortelling, Mobioffice, Ellipsus.