Bear - Markdown Notes
authentic ratingThe best plain-text Markdown note-taking tool in the sample. Opens instantly, and the tag system replaces folders while working more flexibly. iCloud sync is reliable. Bear 2.0 removed the convenient toolbar, worsening the iPhone experience.
74real score
4.68store star
6,836ratings
About the rating
Reviews are specific: comparisons with Evernote, Obsidian, and Craft. Concrete complaints about Bear 2.0 changes. Descriptions of workflows. People write at length and on point. Criticism is constructive, not emotional.
Strengths
What users love
- The tag system lets you find a note across multiple intersecting topics without creating folders. Works equally fast on iPhone and Mac
- And iCloud sync requires no separate account. Markdown renders beautifully without getting in the way while typing.
Weak spots
What users hate
- Bear 2.0 removed the compact toolbar: formatting is now awkward on a small screen. Search does not support advanced filters and is slow in large archives. Attachments and PDFs are not supported without the premium subscription.
Who it is for
Writers, developers, and researchers who need a fast Markdown editor with reliable sync across the Apple ecosystem.
Screenshots
