In the world of visual note-taking and knowledge management, Scrintal and Noteey are two great tools. While Scrintal, launched in late 2022, has gained popularity for its unique blend of mind mapping and note-taking, Noteey was launched in 2024 and emerging as a powerful player with extremely fast interation.
In this article, we’ll compare the strengths and weaknesses of both tools to help you decide which one suits your needs best.
What is Scrintal?
Scrintal is a visual note-taking tool that combines mind mapping with an infinite canvas, making it ideal for researchers, academics, and knowledge workers. Its innovative "Playground for Mind" V2.0 update introduced a block-based approach, enhancing its functionality. However, as a small team project, Scrintal lacks some critical features, such as offline functionality, PDF Annotation etc, which can be a dealbreaker for many users.
Why Noteey is the Best Alternative to Scrintal
If you’re looking for a tool that excels in Visual PKM 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.
Scrintal 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 directly onto the canvas.
Scrintal supports file uploads but requires files to be uploaded to the cloud, which slows down the user experience. Additionally, Scrintal doesn’t allow direct video embedding on the canvas, which is a significant limitation for a visual-first tool.
3. Library for Knowledge Reusability
Noteey has a library where you can store and manage notes, PDFs, videos, and images, which can be reused across multiple boards.
Scrintal’s Library only supports documents, limiting its usability for managing diverse content types.
4. Comprehensive Annotation System
Noteey offers a robust annotation system, allowing you to take notes on PDFs, local videos, and even YouTube videos.
Scrintal supports PDF and video viewing but lacks annotation capabilities.
5. Multiple Boards in One Project
Noteey allows you to include multiple boards within a single project, making it ideal for building complex visual knowledge bases.
Scrintal does not support sub-boards, limiting its flexibility.
6. One-Time Payment Option
Noteey offers a single-purchase license for its Desktop version, making it a cost-effective choice.
Scrintal operates on a subscription model, which can be more expensive over time.
7. Comprehensive Whiteboard Features
Noteey provides a full suite of whiteboard tools, including sticky notes, shapes, lines, and freehand drawing.
While Scrintal also offers rich whiteboard elements, it lacks some user-requested features like sticky notes and freehand drawing.
8. Mind Mapping Capabilities
Noteey includes powerful mind mapping features, which are absent in Scrintal.
Where Scrintal Still Shines
While Noteey has many advantages, Scrintal excels in certain areas:
1. Real-Time Collaboration
Scrintal offers solid 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
Scrintal’s V2.0 update introduced templates, though the template list is still limited.
Noteey does not yet support templates but plans to add them by March 2025, focusing on personal visual knowledge management.
3. Design and Aesthetics
Scrintal boasts a sleek and user-friendly interface, appealing to design-conscious users.
Noteey’s interface is functional but not as polished.
4. Web App Support
Scrintal provides a web app, making it accessible across devices.
Noteey plans to launch its web app in Q1 2025.
Final Verdict: Scrintal vs Noteey
Choose Scrintal if: You need a tool for real-time collaboration, web app accessibility, and a visually appealing interface. Its unique blend of mind mapping and note-taking makes it a great choice for researchers and teams.
Choose Noteey if: You’re focused on personal knowledge management and need offline functionality, reusable content, advanced annotations, and mind mapping features. Its one-time payment option and robust whiteboard tools make it a budget-friendly and versatile alternative.
Conclusion
Both Scrintal and Noteey have their unique strengths, but Noteey stands out as the best alternative for individuals seeking a powerful, offline-capable tool for building visual knowledge bases. As Noteey continues to evolve, it’s poised to become an even stronger competitor in the visual note-taking space.