Markdown notes app for Apple devices with tags and links
Bear is a writing and note-taking app for Mac, iPhone and iPad from Shiny Frog, built on Markdown with nested tags, links between notes and a choice of themes. The app is free to use on a single device, while Bear Pro adds iCloud sync across devices, OCR search in images and PDFs, and more export formats.
- features
- 5
- alternatives
- 12
- platforms
- 2
- Updated
- Oct 12, 2026
Features
Our take
Pros
- Elegant Markdown editor with a choice of themes
- Nested tags and note links keep things organized without folders
- Native, fast apps designed for Mac, iPhone and iPad
Cons
- Apple only, with no Windows, Android or web version
- Sync across devices requires the Pro subscription
- No shared notes or real-time collaboration
Editorial assessment by the Alternatives.tools team, based on what the product is known for. Not a user review.
Best Bear alternatives
See all 12 alternatives
Apple NotesFreeBuilt-in notes app for iPhone, iPad and Mac
ObsidianFreemiumPrivate, local-first knowledge base on Markdown files
4.5(2.8K) · App Store
CraftFreemiumDocs and notes app with a native, polished Apple design
4.8(6.6K) · App Store
UpNoteFreemiumClean notes app with offline access and sync on every device
4.7(1.1K) · App Store
UlyssesFree trialDistraction-free Markdown writing app for Mac, iPhone and iPad
4.6(2.1K) · App Store
iA WriterFree trialMinimal Markdown editor focused on the writing itself
4.6(1.5K) · App Store
User reviews
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