If you're looking for a visual note-taking tool, you've likely heard of Milanote, a popular whiteboard-based platform launched in 2019. However, Noteey has emerged as a compelling alternative, particularly for personal knowledge management.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the strengths and weaknesses of both tools to help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
What is Milanote?
Milanote is a visual note-taking and collaboration tool that has gained popularity for its robust whiteboard features. It’s widely used by teams for brainstorming, project management, and knowledge base creation. Designers, in particular, love its intuitive interface and collaborative capabilities.
However, Milanote has some limitations, such as the inability to reuse content across different boards and the lack of offline functionality.
Why Noteey is the Best Alternative to Milanote
If you’re looking for a tool that excels in personal knowledge management and offers more flexibility, Noteey is the perfect alternative. Here’s why:
1. Offline Functionality
Noteey works seamlessly offline, allowing you to access and edit your notes anytime, anywhere.
Milanote, on the other hand, is entirely cloud-based and requires an internet connection.
2. Local File Support
Noteey allows you to import local videos, audio files, and other media without size restrictions.
While Milanote also supports file uploads, it imposes size limits and requires files to be uploaded to the cloud, which can slow down the user experience.
3. Library for Knowledge Reusability
Noteey has a Library where you can store and manage all your notes, PDFs, videos, and other content. This content can be reused across multiple boards, making it ideal for building a comprehensive knowledge base.
Milanote lacks this feature, as all content is tied to individual boards.
4. Advanced Annotation System
Noteey offers a powerful annotation system that allows you to take notes on PDFs, local videos, and even YouTube videos.
Milanote does not support annotations on external resources.
5. Rich Text Editor
Noteey’s card-based text editor supports multi-level headings, quotes, formulas, and multimedia content.
Milanote has a more limited text editing capability.
6. Multiple Boards in One Project
Noteey allows you to include multiple boards within a single project, which is essential for creating complex visual knowledge bases.
Milanote does not support sub-boards, limiting its flexibility.
7. One-Time Payment Option
Noteey offers a single-purchase license for its desktop app, making it a cost-effective choice.
Milanote operates on a subscription model, which can be more expensive over time.
8. Comprehensive Whiteboard Features
Noteey provides a full suite of whiteboard tools, including sticky notes, shapes, lines, and freehand drawing. While Milanote offers a slightly richer set of whiteboard elements (like its popular Column feature), Noteey is one of the most feature-rich alternatives available.
Where Milanote Still Shines
While Noteey has many advantages, Milanote still excels in certain areas:
1. Real-Time Collaboration
Milanote offers robust real-time collaboration features, making it ideal for team projects.
Noteey currently lacks this feature but plans to introduce remote collaboration by Q2 2025.
2. Templates
Milanote provides a wide range of templates tailored for designers, filmmakers, product designers, and more.
Noteey does not yet support templates but plans to introduce them by March 2025, with a focus on personal visual knowledge management.
3. Tool Integrations
Milanote integrates seamlessly with various third-party tools, enhancing its versatility.
Noteey has limited integrations at this time.
4. Design and Aesthetics
Milanote is known for its sleek and user-friendly interface, which appeals to design-conscious users.
Noteey’s interface is functional but not as polished.
5. Cross-Platform Support
Milanote supports web, mobile, iPad, and offers a web clipper for easy content saving.
Noteey currently lacks cross-platform support but plans to introduce these features by 2025.
Final Verdict: Milanote vs Noteey
Choose Milanote if: You need a tool for team collaboration, real-time brainstorming, or multi-platform support. Its rich templates and integrations make it a great choice for creative professionals.
Choose Noteey if: You’re focused on personal knowledge management and need a tool that works offline, supports reusable content, and offers advanced annotation and whiteboard features. Its one-time payment option also makes it a budget-friendly alternative.
Conclusion
Both Milanote and Noteey have their unique strengths, but Noteey stands out as the best alternative for individuals looking to build a visual knowledge base without the limitations of cloud dependency. As Noteey continues to evolve, it’s poised to become an even stronger competitor in the visual note-taking space.