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Review of GoodNotes and Notability

Jul 25, 2024

Review of GoodNotes and Notability for Digital Note-taking

Introduction

  • Overview of video content
  • Encouragement to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell

Differences Between GoodNotes and Notability Layouts

GoodNotes

  • Folder and thumbnail view, similar to MacBook
  • Organize files by date, name, or type
  • Option to switch to list view

Notability

  • Less customizable organization views
  • Can drag down on subject and divider sections to organize by name, modify date, or created date

Creating Folders and Notebooks

GoodNotes

  • Click plus icon to create a notebook, folder, import images/files, scan documents, or take quick notes
  • High customization for paper types, colors, and sizes
  • Ability to import custom paper templates

Notability

  • Use plus icon to create subjects and dividers
  • Pencil icon to create a note
  • Down arrow to import from other sources
  • Less customization for paper types and sizes

Viewing Options

GoodNotes

  • Variety of options for organizing and viewing pages
  • Outline feature for organization
  • Specialized settings for Apple Pencil and flashcards

Notability

  • Fewer options for page customization and organization
  • Seamless and single-page view options

Note-taking Tools

GoodNotes

  • Extensive toolbar with customizable pen and highlighter options
  • Shape tool with auto perfection
  • Comprehensive eraser options (e.g., whole or partial strokes)

Notability

  • Less customizable pen and highlighter sizes
  • Similar functionality for drawing and holding shapes
  • More customizable fill options for shapes

Text Tools

GoodNotes

  • Text tool is described as finicky but has customization options
  • Lasso tool for moving and editing content

Notability

  • Scissors act as lasso for moving and editing content
  • Built-in stickies and GIFs
  • Voice recording feature paired with notes

Exporting and Sharing Notes

GoodNotes

  • Live collaboration for simultaneous note-taking
  • Laser pointer tool for presentations

Notability

  • Similar export options to GoodNotes but lacks live collaboration
  • Hyperlink-friendly but less effective compared to GoodNotes

Additional Information

  • GoodNotes and Notability available on MacBooks
  • Pricing: Notability ($8.99 USD), GoodNotes ($7.99 USD)
  • GoodNotes frequently updates and has responsive support

Conclusion

  • Both apps have distinct features and are backed by active development teams
  • Recommendation to choose an app based on workflow elevation
  • Call to action for viewer interaction and questions in comments