Ulysses Alternatives

What users switch to when Ulysses doesn't work out — and why they make the change.

1
iA Writer
Mentioned 6x by users
72/100

Writers switch for a one-time purchase and plain-text files that work anywhere, including Windows. Gain: no lock-in, simpler pricing. Trade-off: no library/groups system like Ulysses.

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2
Scrivener
Mentioned 5x by users
62/100

Novelists switch for more manuscript power. Gain: better book organization, research management, one-time purchase. Trade-off: complex, dated UI.

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3
Bear
Mentioned 5x by users
74/100

Apple users switch when they need note-taking more than manuscript management. Similar Markdown feel and design at a lower subscription price. Trade-off: weaker export and publishing.

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4
Obsidian
Mentioned 4x by users
71/100

Writers wanting ownership switch to Obsidian. Gain: local files, cross-platform, free. Trade-off: not writing-focused, setup required.

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5
Notion
Mentioned 4x by users
51/100

Writers switch when they need project management and collaboration alongside writing. More versatile but less focused writing experience. Free tier available.

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6
Google Docs
Mentioned 3x by users

Writers switch when they need collaboration or Windows/Android access. Gain: free, real-time editing with editors. Trade-off: no distraction-free mode or Markdown publishing.

View Google Docs

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See how Ulysses stacks up against the top alternative

Compare Ulysses vs iA Writer