ZettlrWrite and organise Markdown documents, research notes and longer manuscripts.
Free open-source desktop editor · local files · no document quota
Writing & clarity
novelWriter
Free optionOpen sourceLocal
Organise novel chapters, scenes, notes and cross-references while drafting.
What you can use it for
Organise novel chapters, scenes, notes and cross-references while drafting.
- Organise novel chapters/scenes, notes, synopsis and cross-references.
Workflow coverage and comparison notes
Organise and write a novel with chapters, character notes and plot outlines in local plain-text projects instead of the manuscript-organisation slice of Scrivener. Not AI prose generation, Scrivener project compatibility or all rich-text/research features.
Before you switch
Markdown-like syntax, not Scrivener rich text, its research binder/media support or native project compatibility.
Alternatives to these paid apps
Each comparison covers the workflow described above, rather than every paid feature.
More for the same workflow
See alternatives →Zettlr
Reedsy StudioDraft chapters and produce ebook/print interior files.
Core writing and formatting remain free; export EPUB3 and print-ready PDF. Optional Craft/Outline paid add-ons. Browser/account required.
ObsidianWrite linked Markdown notes and organise a personal knowledge base locally.
Free without limits. No sign-up required. (obsidian.md/pricing); Sync/Publish are optional paid add-ons.