The Best Writing Apps for 2025

Cubix

11 Aug, 2020

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20 min read

best writing apps

We live in a time where everything is a tap or click away. In 10 years, we’ve seen ground-breaking technology come to life for all kinds of purposes. Technology has made our lives conveniently easier, from shopping online to transferring money. There’s an app for everything on your hand-held device. Apps allow us to finish our tasks on the go and help us do our job better. These tools become our savior in the most critical times.

Why the Right Writing App is Essential for Every Writer

If you enjoy writing, you would know the struggle of making sure everything is perfect; from the composition to the clarity of the piece, you need to make sure the message delivered to the audience is effective and accurate. Writing isn’t limited to a single style. Some people prefer technical writing, while others enjoy writing blogs. Either way, a writer’s app determines the quality of writing.

Here is the ultimate list of the best writing apps and tools for different categories of writers:

Best Book Writing Apps For Authors

1. Scrivener App for Writers

If you’re looking for an app that is incredibly refined and streamlined, Scrivener is the ideal choice for you. Scrivener has several templates ready to organize your writing projects, whether you’re writing an essay, blog, screenplay, or even a full-on novel. Along with a variety of templates, it also provides virtual notecards for every element you add to your project.

  • Features: Comprehensive writing environment, flexible organization system (Corkboard, Outliner), powerful research tools, manuscript compilation, and publishing options.
  • Platforms: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid ($49)

2. Ulysses App for Writers

Although Ulysses appears a bit similar to Scrivener, it has significant differences. Staying organized while writing is a struggle for many writers due to the overflow of ideas. However, you don’t need to worry about editing while writing with Ulysses. Going back and forth interferes with the flow of ideas. It’s the best app for writing an autobiography for writers, especially if you’re a novelist.

  • Features: Minimalist interface, Markdown-based writing, distraction-free mode, iCloud sync, and advanced writing tools.
  • Platforms: macOS, iOS, iPadOS
  • Price: Paid (Subscription-based)

 3. Ywriter App for Writers

Ywriter is the Best app for writing an autobiography and is also famous for book writing that simplifies complex writing projects. It organizes and divides the story into multiple parts, which allows the Writer to think freely, reducing stress. It’s an excellent app for progress tracking, storyboard review, and generating daily word count.

The best thing about one of the simplest writing apps is that it’s lightweight and straightforward. Moreover, it’s free and isn’t cluttered with unnecessary features.

  • Features: Outlining, scene management, character and location notes, writing mode, and export to various formats.
  • Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Price: Free

4. Ginger App for Writers

Ginger is a writing tool based on natural language understanding techniques, is one of today’s most visually appealing apps. Ginger’s algorithms enable it to understand the context and detect faults in even the most difficult portions of a text, making its text recognition efficiency higher than that of most other editing writing programs. The service is also available as a cross-platform mobile application, elevating it to the top of the list of writing applications for Android and iOS.

  • Key Features: Grammar and Spelling Correction, Sentence Rephraser, Contextual Corrections, Vocabulary Enhancement, Style Guide, Translation Platform Availability:
  • Platforms: mobile apps for iOS and Android. It also integrates with popular word processors like Microsoft Word and Google Docs.
  • Pricing: Ginger offers a free version with basic features, but for more advanced features and unlimited usage, you can choose from various subscription plans.

5. OneLook App for Writers

Another easily accessible web tool that might be a valuable resource for professional writers is OneLook. It’s a comprehensive online dictionary collection where you can just type in a term to obtain results from over 30 orthographic, linguistic, explanatory, and other dictionaries. The reverse dictionary option in OneLook is especially useful for authors seeking specific terms and synonyms by defining their definitions. If you want to improve your vocabulary and knowledge of terms, you should try it.

  • Platform: Web-based  
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Comprehensive Thesaurus , Reverse Dictionary, Multiple Dictionary Sources, Word Rhyming. and Word Games

6. Novlr App for Writers

  • Features: Cloud-based, real-time collaboration, version control, writing prompts, and AI-powered writing assistance.
  • Platforms: Web-based
  • Price: Free (Basic plan), Paid (Premium plan)

7. Dabble App for Writers

  • Features: Outlining, character and worldbuilding tools, writing prompts, and integration with Scrivener.
  • Platforms: Web-based
  • Price: Paid (Subscription-based)

8. LivingWriter App for Writers

  • Features: Timed writing sessions, word count goals, progress tracking, and writing prompts.
  • Platforms: Web-based
  • Price: Free (Basic plan), Paid (Premium plan)

9. Manuskript App for Writers

  • Features: Outlining, scene management, character and location notes, writing mode, and export to various formats.
  • Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Price: Free and Open-source

10. The Novel Factory App for Writers

  • Features: Outlining, character and worldbuilding tools, writing prompts, and integration with Scrivener.
  • Platforms: Web-based
  • Price: Paid (Subscription-based)

11. Bibisco App for Writers

  • Features: Research management, note-taking, citation management, and integration with writing software.
  • Platforms: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid (Subscription-based)

12. WriteItNow App for Writers

  • Features: Writing prompts, timed writing sessions, and progress tracking.
  • Platforms: Web-based
  • Price: Free (Basic plan), Paid (Premium plan)

Distraction-Free Writing Tools

1. FocusWriter App for Writers

FocusWriter is the Best app for writing an autobiography. It is a distraction-free text editor with useful features, such as an automatic spell checker and a focusing function. It has a variety of graphic themes, easy text navigation, and compatibility with most major operating systems. Its ability to run the software directly from a flash drive as well as on mobile devices without issue.

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Price: Free and open-source
  • Key Features: Minimalist interface, full-screen mode, customizable themes, goal-setting, distraction-free writing environment.

2. Libre Office App for Writers

LibreOffice is a free suite of writing tools that lets users work with a variety of text and graphical formats. LibreOffice Writer (for text file editing with an additional visual HTML editor available), LibreOffice (for digital sheet and table editing), LibreOffice Draw (for vector graphics creation), LibreOffice Impress (for presentations), LibreOffice Base (for connection with external DBMSs and HSQLDBs), and LibreOffice Math (for mathematical formula editing) are among the writing apps for Windows.

  • Platform: Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and various mobile platforms.  
  • Price: Free and open-source.  
  • Key Features: Comprehensive Word Processing, Document Templates, Compatibility, Spell Check and Thesaurus, Advanced Features, Customization and Collaboration

3. Calmly Writer App for Writers

Calmly Writer is a real-time text editing online service with an easy UI. It’s a professional and the best paper writing app, similar to Google Docs, but focuses on features explicitly tailored to the needs of professional writers.

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free (with premium options for additional features)
  • Key Features: Simple interface, ambient sounds, writing prompts, focus timer, distraction-free writing.

4. OmmWriter App for Writers

  • Platform: macOS, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free (with in-app purchases)
  • Key Features: Calming soundscapes, minimalist design, focus timer, writing prompts, distraction-free writing.

5. ZenWriter App for Writers

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Price: Free and open-source
  • Key Features: Simple interface, full-screen mode, customizable themes, distraction-free writing.

6. WriteMonkey App for Writers

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Price: Free and open-source
  • Key Features: Minimalist interface, full-screen mode, customizable themes, distraction-free writing.

7. iA Writer App for Writers

There’s no list of the best writing apps without IA Writer on it. People often compare Ulysses and IA writers as they both offer Markdown and formatting. The main difference lies in the interface. It’s much more straightforward, unique, and natural to use. The minimalistic design works effectively with the objective of the Writer. It doesn’t cause unnecessary distractions.

  • Platform: macOS, iOS, Android, Web
  • Price: Paid subscription or one-time purchase
  • Key Features: Clean interface, focus mode, Markdown support, cloud sync, distraction-free writing.

8. Typora App for Writers

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Price: Paid for commercial use, free for personal use
  • Key Features: Markdown editor, real-time preview, distraction-free mode, customizable themes, advanced formatting options.

9. Writeroom App for Writers

  • Platform: macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Minimalist interface, full-screen mode, distraction-free writing, iCloud sync.

10. Cleartext App for Writers

  • Platform: macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Minimalist interface, full-screen mode, distraction-free writing, iCloud sync.

11. Dark Room App for Writers

  • Platform: macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Minimalist interface, full-screen mode, distraction-free writing, iCloud sync.

Best Story Planning and Outlining

1. Plottr Story Writing App

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Visual plotting tools, character arcs, timeline, scene cards, worldbuilding tools.

2. Campfire Story Writing App

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Collaborative writing, real-time editing, version history, task management, writing prompts.

3. Milanote Story Writing App

  • Platform: Web-based, macOS, iOS
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Visual note-taking, mind mapping, idea organization, mood boards.

4. Story Planner for Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Character profiles, plot outlines, timeline, scene cards, worldbuilding tools.

5. Writer’s Blocks Story Writing App

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Visual storyboarding, character arcs, plot outlines, scene cards.

6. Aeon Timeline Story Writing App

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid license
  • Key Features: Timeline creation, event scheduling, historical research, project management.

7. Hiveword Story Writing App

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Mind mapping, brainstorming, idea organization, collaborative writing.

8. StoryO Story Writing App

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Storyboarding, character arcs, plot outlines, scene cards, worldbuilding tools.

9. Notion Story Writing App

  • Platform: Web-based, macOS, iOS, Windows, Android
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Note-taking, task management, database, wiki, collaborative writing.

10. Scapplestory App for Story Writing

  • Platform: macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Mind mapping, brainstorming, idea organization.

Brainstorming and Idea Generation

1. The Brainstormer Free App for Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Random writing prompts, idea generation, writing challenges.

2. A Novel Idea Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Random writing prompts, genre-specific prompts, character generators.

3. Writer’s Digest Prompts Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Daily writing prompts, genre-specific prompts, writing challenges.

4. Idea Generator Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Random plot ideas, character concepts, setting generators.

5. Masterpiece Generator Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Random writing prompts, genre-specific prompts, character generators.

6. Storyteller’s Prompts Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Daily writing prompts, genre-specific prompts, writing challenges.

7. Character Writer Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Character development tools, personality generators, backstory ideas.

8. Inkflow Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Story outlining, character development, worldbuilding tools.

9. Character Pro Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Character development tools, personality generators, backstory ideas.

Editing and Proofreading Tools

1. Grammarly App for Writers

This application is one of the best paper writing apps currently available with its unique and straightforward dashboard interface, the app’s premium version is the best right-hand tool to employ in your writing projects. Not only does the app offer basic features at a reasonable cost, but it also enhances your writing skills by providing helpful editing suggestions. In addition, it helps you refine your work, making the writing process even smoother.

  • Platform: Web-based, desktop app, browser extension
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Grammar and spelling checks, style suggestions, plagiarism detection, tone adjustment.

2. Prowritingaid App for Writers

One of the top writing apps includes a basic grammar checker and proofreader, which transforms the quality of the project. Self-editing takes time with a few apps, but you don’t have to worry about it with one of the best writing prompt apps on your phone downloaded!

  • Platform: Web-based, desktop app, browser extension
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Grammar and spelling checks, style suggestions, readability reports, overused words, sentence structure analysis.

3. AutoCrit Book Writer App

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: In-depth editing suggestions, style analysis, genre-specific feedback, plagiarism detection.

4. WhiteSmoke Book Writer App

  • Platform: Web-based, desktop app, browser extension
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Grammar and spelling checks, style suggestions, plagiarism detection, translation.

5. SmartEdit Book Writer App

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Grammar and spelling checks, style suggestions, readability reports, overused words, sentence structure analysis.

6. EditMinion Book Writer App

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Grammar and spelling checks, style suggestions, readability reports, overused words, sentence structure analysis.

7. StyleWriter Book Writer App

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Style analysis, readability reports, overused words, sentence structure analysis.

8. Hemingway Editor App for Writers

It’s listed as one of the Best writing apps for iPhone writers by many notable websites. With a license fee of $19.99, it’s the most straightforward editing tool to have on Mac and Windows. If you’re a writer who values clear and direct prose, Hemingway will seal the deal for you. This app is designed to help you get rid of unwanted and unnecessary information to make room for a clear perspective.

It’s one of the fastest-growing writing applications in the market right now.

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Readability analysis, highlights complex sentences, adverbs, and passive voice.

9. PaperRater Editor App for Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Grammar and spelling checks, plagiarism detection, style suggestions.

10. Hanx Writer App for Writers

If you’re a fan of Tom Hanks, then you’re in for a treat! Hanx Writer is the perfect app for screenwriters and novelists, made by the talented actor himself. If you’re a fan of vintage letters and typewriters, this app needs to be on your phone. The interface of the app is quite unique and vintage as it downloads and saves files in typewriter fonts and styles.

  • Key Features: Typewriter Emulation, Customization, Word Processing, Export Options: and Keyboard Extension
  • Pricing: Free options to premium ones.  
  • Platform: Hanx Writer is available on iOS devices, including iPads and iPhones.

Mobile-Friendly Novel Writing Apps

1. JotterPad Novel Writing App

JotterPad is one of the best writing apps available on Android. It offers several features that put it on the list of the best writing prompt apps. It’s free of cost, has a unique and simple interface, and supports Markdown, which is a massive requirement for complex writing projects.

By just investing a few more dollars, you can unlock its Creative Mode, which offers exceptionally smooth and fast features, which makes it one of the quickest writing applications in the market.

  • Platform: iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid versions
  • Key Features: Rich text formatting, cloud syncing, writing goals, night mode.

2. Writer Plus Novel Writing Apps

  • Platform: iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid versions
  • Key Features: Focus mode, distraction-free writing, writing goals, cloud syncing.

3. Novelist Novel Writing Apps

  • Platform: iOS, Android
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Character profiles, plot outlines, scene cards, worldbuilding tools.

4. INKredible Novel Writing Apps

  • Platform: iOS, Android
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Rich text formatting, cloud syncing, writing goals, night mode, distraction-free writing.

5. GoodNotes Novel Writing Apps

  • Platform: iOS, iPadOS, Mac
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Note-taking, handwriting recognition, PDF annotation, cloud syncing.

6. Diaro Novel Writing Apps

  • Platform: iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid versions
  • Key Features: Journaling, mood tracking, password protection, cloud syncing.

7. Evernote Novel Writing Apps

  • Platform: Web, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Note-taking, task management, clipping web pages, search.

8. Writing Prompts Novel Writing Apps

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Daily writing prompts, genre-specific prompts, writing challenges.

9. Monospace Writer Novel Writing Apps

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Minimalist interface, distraction-free writing, dark mode.

10. WPS Office Novel Writing Apps

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid versions
  • Key Features: Word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, PDF reader, cloud storage.

AI-Assisted Writing Tools

1. ChatGPT (via OpenAI) Writing Tools

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free (limited access), Paid Plans
  • Focus: General Content Creation
  • Key Features: Text generation, translation, code completion, Q&A

2. Jasper (formerly Jarvis)

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid Plans
  • Focus: Long-Form Content & Marketing Copy
  • Key Features: Content creation (blogs, articles, social media posts), marketing copy (ads, sales emails), SEO optimization

3. Sudowrite Writing Tool

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free trial, Paid Plans
  • Focus: Creative Writing & Fiction
  • Key Features: Story development, character creation, scene building, overcoming writer’s block

4. Writesonic Writing Tool

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free plan, Paid Plans
  • Focus: Marketing Copy & Short-Form Content
  • Key Features: Ad copy, product descriptions, social media posts, website content, landing pages

5. Copy.ai Writing Tools 

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free plan, Paid Plans
  • Focus: Marketing Copy & Short-Form Content
  • Key Features: Blog intros and outlines, social media captions, product descriptions, website copy

6. Rytr Writing Tool

  • Platform:  Web-based 
  • Price: Free plan, Paid Plans
  • Focus Marketing Copy & Short-Form Content
  • Key Features: Blog ideas, social media captions, product descriptions, email marketing copy

7. ShortlyAI Writing Tool

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free plan, Paid Plans
  • Focus: Short-Form Content & Summarization
  • Key Features: Blog post intros and outlines, social media captions, email subject lines, article summaries

8. AI Dungeon Writing Tool

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free plan, Paid Plans
  • Focus: Interactive Fiction & Storytelling
  • Key Features: Text-based adventure game, creates stories based on user prompts and choices

9. CloserCopy Writing Tools

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid Plans
  • Focus: Marketing Copy & Sales Content
  • Key Features: Email marketing copy, sales letters, landing page copy, website headlines

10. Wordtune Writing Tools

  • Platform: Web-based, Browser Extension
  • Price: Free plan, Paid Plans
  • Focus: Grammar & Style Improvement
  • Key Features: Rephrases sentences, improves clarity and conciseness, changes tone and style

World-Building and Character Development Tools

1. World Anvil Character Development Tools

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free & Paid Plans
  • Focus: Worldbuilding
  • Key Features: World creation, character profiles, location details, timelines, notes, collaborative features

2. Notebook.ai Character Development Tools

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid Plans
  • Focus: Project Management & Note-Taking
  • Key Features: Organization, task management, note-taking, AI-powered suggestions

3. Artbreeder Character Development Tools

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free & Paid Plans
  • Focus: Character Design (AI-powered)
  • Key Features: Generate unique character portraits based on text descriptions

4. Hero Forge Character Development Tools

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free & Paid Options
  • Focus: Character Design (3D Posable Figures)
  • Key Features: Create customizable 3D character models

5. One Stop for Writers Character Development Tool

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid Subscription
  • Focus: Writing Management & Resources
  • Key Features: Story outlining, character profiles, scene management, writing prompts, resource library

6. World Scribe Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Mobile App (iOS & Android)
  • Price: Free & Paid Plans
  • Focus: Worldbuilding on the Go
  • Key Features: Create notes, organize world details, track character arcs, story outlining

7. Kanka Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free & Paid Plans
  • Focus: Character & Campaign Management
  • Key Features: Character sheets, campaign management tools, collaborative features for role-playing games

8. WorldSpinner Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free & Paid Plans
  • Focus: Worldbuilding & Story Generation
  • Key Features: Generate world elements like landscapes, cultures, and characters based on prompts

9. Realm Works Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid Subscription
  • Focus: Worldbuilding & Campaign Management
  • Key Features: Create detailed world maps, character profiles, story outlines, campaign management for tabletop RPGs

10. StoryShop Free App For Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid Subscription
  • Focus: Writing Management & Collaboration
  • Key Features: Story outlining, scene development, character profiles, feedback tools, collaboration features

Formatting and Publishing Tools

1. Kindle Create Writing App

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Free (Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing authors)
  • Focus: Kindle eBook Formatting
  • Key Features: Drag-and-drop interface, built-in templates, supports images, tables, and complex layouts.

2. Vellum Writing App

  • Platform: macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Focus: eBook and Print Book Formatting
  • Key Features: Professional-quality formatting, supports multiple output formats (ePub, MOBI, PDF, print-ready PDF), advanced typography options.

3. Reedsy Book Editor Writing App

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free and Paid Plans
  • Focus: eBook and Print Book Formatting
  • Key Features: Drag-and-drop interface, built-in templates, supports multiple output formats, collaboration features.

4. Pressbooks Writing App

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free and Paid Plans
  • Focus: eBook and Print Book Publishing
  • Key Features: Open-source platform, supports multiple output formats, integrates with learning management systems.

5. Jutoh Publishing Tools

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Focus: eBook and Print Book Formatting
  • Key Features: Advanced formatting options, supports multiple output formats, integration with other writing tools.

6. Atticus Publishing Tools

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid
  • Focus: eBook and Print Book Formatting
  • Key Features: Professional-quality formatting, supports multiple output formats, cloud-based collaboration.

7. Adobe InDesign Publishing Tools

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Subscription-based
  • Focus: Professional Print and Digital Publishing
  • Key Features: Advanced layout and design tools, supports complex layouts, print-ready output.

8. Affinity Publisher Publishing Tools

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: One-time purchase
  • Focus: Professional Print and Digital Publishing
  • Key Features: Powerful layout and design tools, supports complex layouts, print-ready output.

9. Calibre Publishing Tools

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Price: Free
  • Focus: eBook Library Management and Conversion
  • Key Features: Organize eBook library, convert eBooks between formats (ePub, MOBI, PDF), edit metadata.

10. Sigil Publishing Tools

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Price: Free
  • Focus: eBook Editing and Formatting
  • Key Features: Edit eBook content and metadata, create and edit EPUB files.

Collaboration and Cloud-Based Writing Apps

1. Google Docs Writing Apps

  • Platform: Web-based, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Real-time collaboration, document editing, formatting, cloud storage, version history.

2. Dropbox Paper Writing Apps

  • Platform: Web-based, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free for basic use, paid plans for advanced features
  • Key Features: Real-time collaboration, document editing, task management, commenting, cloud storage.

3. Quip Writing Apps

  • Platform: Web-based, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free for basic use, paid plans for advanced features
  • Key Features: Real-time collaboration, document editing, spreadsheets, checklists, chat, cloud storage.

4. Zoho Writer Writing Apps

  • Platform: Web-based, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Document editing, formatting, collaboration, cloud storage, templates.

5. Coda Writing Apps

  • Platform: Web-based, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Document editing, spreadsheets, databases, kanban boards, real-time collaboration, templates.

6. Slite Writing Apps

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Team communication, knowledge base, document collaboration, task management.

7. Overleaf Writing Apps

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Focus: LaTeX document editing and collaboration
  • Key Features: Real-time collaboration, version control, LaTeX templates, cloud storage.

Journaling and Personal Writing Tools

1. Day One (limited features) Personal Writing Tools

  • Platform: iOS, Android, macOS (with free tier limitations)
  • Price: Free (limited features), Paid plans for additional features
  • Key Features: Journaling, formatting, photos, tags, search.

2. Journey Personal Writing Tools

  • Platform: Web, iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Chrome OS
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Journaling, prompts, mood tracking, gratitude prompts, goal setting.

3. Penzu: (limited features)

  • Platform: Web-based, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free (limited features), Paid plans for additional features
  • Key Features: Secure journaling, formatting, themes, reminders, password protection.

4. Diaro: (limited features)

  • Platform: iOS, Android
  • Price: Free (limited features), Paid plans for additional features
  • Key Features: Journaling, mood tracking, photos, reminders, password protection.

5. Everlog Personal Writing Tools

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Simple journaling, daily entries, search.

6. DailyPrompt Personal Writing Tools

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Daily writing prompts for journaling inspiration.

7. Day One

  • Platform: iOS, Android, macOS
  • Price: Free (limited features), Paid plans for additional features
  • Key Features: Journaling, formatting, photos, tags, search, cloud syncing, attachments.

8. Diaro

  • Platform: iOS, Android
  • Price: Free (limited features), Paid plans for additional features
  • Key Features: Journaling, mood tracking, photos, reminders, password protection, cloud syncing, attachments.

9. MyStory.today Personal Writing Tools

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Journaling, memories, life timeline, cloud storage.

10. Momento Personal Writing Tools

  • Platform: iOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Journaling, photos, videos, location tagging, calendar view.

11. Reflectly Personal Writing Tools

  • Platform: iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and Paid Plans
  • Key Features: Journaling, mood tracking, gratitude prompts, goal setting, progress tracking.

12. Turtl  Personal Writing Tools

  • Platform: Web-based, iOS, Android
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Encrypted journaling, self-destructing messages, photo & video support, password protection.

Note-Taking and Research Tools

1. Obsidian Research Tool

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
  • Price: One-time purchase
  • Key Features: Local-first note-taking, Markdown support, linkable notes, graph view, customizable themes.

2. Roam Research Tool

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Graph-based note-taking, bidirectional linking, infinite nesting, automatic tagging.

3. Bear Research Tool

  • Platform: iOS, macOS
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Markdown support, tags, notes, checklists, code blocks, themes.

4. Microsoft OneNote

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Web
  • Price: Free and paid plans (part of Microsoft 365)
  • Key Features: Note-taking, handwriting recognition, audio recording, tagging, search, cloud storage.

5. GoodNotes

  • Platform: iOS, iPadOS, macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Note-taking, handwriting recognition, PDF annotation, cloud syncing.

6. Zettlr

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Markdown support, LaTeX integration, citation management, PDF export, customization.

7. TiddlyWiki Research Tool

  • Platform: Web-based, self-hosted
  • Price: Free and open-source
  • Key Features: Non-linear note-taking, tagging, filtering, search, customization, offline support.

8. Workflowy

  • Platform: Web-based, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Outlining, task management, note-taking, collaboration.

9. Agenda

  • Platform: Web-based, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Calendar-based note-taking, time blocking, task management, reminders, integrations.

Screenwriting Tools (For Novelists Writing Scripts)

1. Final Draft For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Industry-standard formatting, scriptwriting tools, character arcs, scene breakdowns, integration with other writing software.

2. Celtx For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Web-based, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Scriptwriting, storyboarding, scheduling, budgeting, collaboration tools.

3. WriterDuet For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Real-time collaboration, scriptwriting tools, character arcs, scene breakdowns, integration with other writing software.

4. Fade In For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Scriptwriting tools, character arcs, scene breakdowns, integration with other writing software.

5. Trelby For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Price: Free and open-source
  • Key Features: Basic scriptwriting tools, formatting, export to various formats.

6. Movie Magic Screenwriter

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Comprehensive scriptwriting tools, scheduling, budgeting, reporting, integration with other production software.

7. Kit Scenarist For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Scriptwriting tools, character arcs, scene breakdowns, integration with other writing software.

8. Highland For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Basic scriptwriting tools, formatting, cloud storage, collaboration.

9. StudioBinder For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Scriptwriting, storyboarding, scheduling, budgeting, production management tools.

10. Scrite For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Basic scriptwriting tools, formatting, cloud storage, collaboration.

Specialized Tools for Novelists

1. NovelPad For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Key Features: Scriptwriting, novel writing, character profiles, scene outlines, worldbuilding tools.

2. Storyist For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: macOS
  • Key Features: Story outlining, character profiles, scene cards, worldbuilding tools, integration with Scrivener.

3. SmartEdit Writer For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Key Features: Grammar and spelling checks, style suggestions, readability reports, overused words, sentence structure analysis.

4. SceneOne For Novelists Writing

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Key Features: Basic scriptwriting tools, formatting, cloud storage, collaboration.

5. WriteWay For Novel Writing

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Key Features: Simple writing interface, distraction-free mode, writing prompts.

6. Story Planner For Novel Writing

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Key Features: Story outlining, character profiles, scene cards, worldbuilding tools.

7. StoryBox For Novel Writing

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Key Features: Story outlining, character profiles, scene cards, worldbuilding tools.

8. PageFour For For Novel Writing

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Key Features: Scriptwriting, storyboarding, character profiles, scene outlines.

9. EasyWriter For Novel Writing

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Key Features: Simple writing interface, distraction-free mode, writing prompts.

Markdown Editors for Authors

1. StackEdit Editors for Authors

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free (limited features), Paid plans start at ~$5/month
  • Key Features: Real-time collaboration, version history, Markdown support, distraction-free mode

2. Ghostwriter Editors for Authors

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free (limited features), Paid plans start at $10/month
  • Key Features: AI-powered code completion, code generation, code refactoring, code explanation

3. Haroopad Editors for Authors

  • Platform: Web, Desktop (Windows, Mac, Linux)
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Markdown editor, syntax highlighting, themes, media embedding

4. Caret Editors for Authors

  • Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Code editor, Markdown support, plugins for various functionalities, split-screen editing

5. Dillinger Editors for Authors

  • Platform: Web
  • Price: Free (limited features), Paid plan ~$5/month
  • Key Features: Markdown editor, distraction-free mode, focus timer, export to various formats (PDF, ePub)

6. Typora Editors for Authors

  • Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Markdown editor, live preview, themes, focus mode, export to various formats (PDF, HTML)

7. Markdown Pad Editors for Authors

  • Platform: Mac
  • Price: $5.99 (one-time purchase)
  • Key Features: Markdown editor, live preview, syntax highlighting, themes, plugin support

8. Zettlr Editors for Authors

  • Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
  • Price: Free (limited features), Paid plan ~$19 (one-time purchase)
  • Key Features: Markdown editor, knowledge management features, local file storage, focus mode, themes

Note-Taking and Writing Tools

1. Write.as Note-Taking

  • Platform: Web
  • Price: Free (limited features), Paid plans start at ~$5/month
  • Key Features: Minimalist writing environment, real-time saving, focus mode, publish directly to web

2. Quiver Editors for Authors

  • Platform: Mac, iOS
  • Price: Free (limited features), Paid plan ~$10 (one-time purchase)
  • Key Features: Markdown editor, journaling capabilities, tagging, organization tools, mobile app

Productivity and Focus Tools

1. Freedom

  • Platform: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Website and app blocking, focus mode, custom schedules.

2. FocusMe

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Website and app blocking, focus mode, customizable work sessions.

3. Clockify

  • Platform: Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Time tracking, project management, team collaboration, invoicing.

4. Toggl

  • Platform: Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Time tracking, project management, team collaboration, invoicing, integrations with other tools.

5. Cold Turkey Writer

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Distraction-free writing, website and app blocking, writing goals.

6. Write Or Die

  • Platform: Web
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Distraction-free writing, timed writing sessions, penalties for inactivity.

Miscellaneous Writing Tools

1. NovelSpeed

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Paid subscription
  • Key Features: Writing goals, progress tracking, word count targets, writing sprints.

2. Pomodone

  • Platform: Web-based, Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Pomodoro timer, task management, focus mode, time tracking.

3. WriteTrack

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Writing goals, progress tracking, word count targets, writing sprints.

4. Habitica

  • Platform: Web-based, iOS, Android
  • Price: Free and paid plans
  • Key Features: Gamified task management, habit tracking, reward system.

5. Pacemaker

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Writing sprints, progress tracking, word count targets, community.

6.  Drafts  App for Writers

Drafts 4 is an iOS app that falls on the list of the cheapest writing apps in the market. Working on your phone has never been easier and faster. Whether it’s a quick email or an extended essay, you can easily write on Apple devices. Furthermore, it offers Markdown through keyboard shortcuts, which makes the writing process even more efficient and streamlined. It’s cost-effective and a huge time saver! What more do you want from one of the best apps for writers?

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Minimalist writing interface, distraction-free writing, cloud storage.

7. Marked 2 App for Writers

  • Platform: macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Markdown previewer, syntax highlighting, custom themes, export options.

8. Writing Shed App for Writers

  • Platform: Web-based
  • Price: Free
  • Key Features: Distraction-free writing, writing prompts, writing challenges.

9. EverWrite App for Writers

  • Platform: Windows, macOS
  • Price: Paid
  • Key Features: Novel writing, character profiles, scene outlines, worldbuilding tools.

Experimental and Creative Tools

1. Storium Storytelling and Writing

  • Platform: Web
  • Features: Collaborative storytelling platform, create and play in interactive stories with others, story cards guide narrative, limited branching choices (free version). More features like hosting games with multiple narrators and building custom worlds with a paid membership (choose your own price, suggested minimum $5/month).
  • Price: Free with limitations, Paid membership with choose-your-price option (suggested minimum $5/month).

2. Twine Storytelling and Writing

  • Platform: Web-based with downloadable editor
  • Features: Open-source interactive fiction platform, create branching narratives with text and images, choose-your-own-adventure style, requires some coding knowledge. Free to use, with online resources and downloadable editor for offline work.
  • Price: Free.

3. Squibler Storytelling and Writing

  • Platform: Web
  • Features: AI-powered story writing assistant, suggests ideas, generates text snippets, outlines, and character profiles. Limited free trial, paid subscription for full features.
  • Price: Free trial, Paid subscriptions starting around $10/month.

4. Adventuresmith Storytelling and Writing

  • Platform: Mobile app
  • Features: Interactive fiction creation app, write branching stories, choose-your-own-adventure style, add images and puzzles. Paid app with in-app purchases for additional features.
  • Price: Paid app (price may vary by platform) with in-app purchases.

5. WriterIgniter Storytelling and Writing

  • Platform: Web
  • Features: Writing prompts and exercises, overcome writer’s block, generate ideas, build character profiles, explore story themes. Paid subscription service.
  • Price: Paid subscription (price may vary).

6. Plot Generator Storytelling and Writing

  • Platform: Varies – can be web-based, mobile apps, or downloadable software)
  • Features: Generates story ideas and plot points, various themes and genres available. Functionality and features vary depending on the specific tool. Can be free or paid.
  • Price: Varies – free and paid options available.

Worldbuilding Tools

1. Wonderdraft

  • Platform: PC/Mac
  • Features: Fantasy map creation software, create detailed maps with mountains, rivers, forests, towns, and more. Paid software with a one-time purchase fee.
  • Price: Paid software (one-time purchase, price may vary).

2. Inkarnate

  • Platform: Web
  • Features: Online map and worldbuilding tool, create fantasy and sci-fi maps, build custom textures and assets. Free version with limited features, paid subscription for full access.
  • Price: Free with limitations, Paid subscription (price may vary).

3. Narrative Muse

  • Platform: Web
  • Features: AI-powered writing assistant, suggest story ideas, character development, and plot elements. Currently in beta testing, may change in the future.
  • Price: Currently in Beta, pricing may change upon release.

4. Fictionate.me

  • Platform: Web
  • Features: AI-powered story writing assistant, generate creative text formats like poems, scripts, and dialogues. Limited free trial, paid subscription for full access.
  • Price: Free trial, Paid subscription (price may vary).

FAQS About Writing Apps

Is there an app for creative writing?

It’s not simple to write. Thankfully, there are a variety of applications available to help you stay organized and focused during the process. Moreover, these free applications for writers can make any task easier. Whether you’re writing for a living or simply making a shopping list, they provide the tools you need to accomplish your goals more efficiently.

  • Prowritingaid
  • Hubspot’s blog idea generator
  • Canva
  • Milanote
  • LibreOffice

What’s the best app for writing?

This list of the top writing applications and software for authors, bloggers, and freelancers is updated regularly.

I use a lot of these writing programmers regularly. Authors and writers highly recommend others. Every writing program on this list will assist you in becoming a better, wiser, and more prolific writer if you prioritize writing.

  • Grammarly
  • LivingWriting
  • Dragon Anywhere
  • Vellum
  • Ginger software

What writing app do professional authors use?

Nowadays, authors have so many options when looking for the best book writing software. This abundance of choices can be overwhelming, which is why we created the quiz below—to cut down on decision-making and wasted time!

  • Google Docs
  • Notion
  • Evernote
  • Open Office
  • NovelPad
  • Scrivener
  • Plotter
  • Atticus
  • Microsoft Word
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