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GoodNotes 5

8.9

Very Good

From N/A (no longer sold)

language

description GoodNotes 5 Overview

GoodNotes 5 is the predecessor to GoodNotes 6. While it has been superseded by the newer version, it remains a highly capable and stable note-taking app. Many users prefer it because it doesn't require a subscription and offers a familiar, proven interface. It still supports all the core features like handwriting, PDF annotation, and folder organization.

However, it lacks the newer AI features and the refined UI of version 6. It is a great choice for users who want a reliable, one-time purchase app and don't need the latest bells and whistles.

recommend Best for: Users who prefer a one-time purchase over subscriptions and need reliable, offline note-taking with excellent Apple Pencil support on iPad.

info GoodNotes 5 Specifications

Status	Discontinued (superseded by GoodNotes 6)
Platforms	iOS, iPadOS, macOS
Templates	Pre-built templates, custom template creation
Last Version	5.7.x
Offline Mode	Yes - full functionality without internet
Organization	Folders, subfolders, nested tags, favorites
Export Formats	PDF, PNG, GoodNotes 5 format (.goodnotes)
Import Formats	PDF documents, image files (PNG, JPG)
Apple Pencil Support	Full (pressure, tilt, palm rejection)
Handwriting Recognition	Yes - searchable text from handwritten notes

balance GoodNotes 5 Pros & Cons

thumb_up Pros

check One-time purchase with no subscription required, making it cost-effective long-term
check Stable, proven interface with years of refinement and reliability
check Full Apple Pencil support with pressure sensitivity, tilt detection, and palm rejection
check Complete offline functionality - no internet required to access or edit notes
check Versatile export options including PDF, PNG, and GoodNotes format
check Robust organization system with folders, subfolders, and tagging capabilities

thumb_down Cons

close No longer actively developed - GoodNotes 6 has superseded it with new features
close Missing modern AI features like smart handwriting enhancement available in competitors
close Limited collaboration tools compared to cloud-based note-taking alternatives
close May face future compatibility issues as Apple updates iOS and macOS
close No free tier or trial available since it's no longer sold

help GoodNotes 5 FAQ

Is GoodNotes 5 still supported and receiving updates?

GoodNotes 5 is no longer actively developed. GoodNotes 6 has replaced it as the main version, though GoodNotes 5 users can continue using the app. Migration tools exist to transfer notebooks to GoodNotes 6.

Can I transfer my notes from GoodNotes 5 to GoodNotes 6?

Yes, GoodNotes provides an official migration tool that transfers all notebooks, folders, tags, and custom templates from GoodNotes 5 to GoodNotes 6 seamlessly.

Does GoodNotes 5 work on iPad and iPhone?

GoodNotes 5 is compatible with iPhone, iPad, and Mac. The app supports Apple Pencil on iPad for handwriting and includes full offline functionality across all platforms.

What happened to GoodNotes 5 after GoodNotes 6 release?

GoodNotes 5 was discontinued as a separate product when GoodNotes 6 launched. Existing GoodNotes 5 users can continue using it, but it no longer receives feature updates or new releases.

Can I export my notes from GoodNotes 5 to other formats?

GoodNotes 5 supports exporting notebooks as PDF documents, PNG images, or as GoodNotes format backups. This allows users to preserve their notes even if they switch apps.

What is GoodNotes 5?

GoodNotes 5 is the predecessor to GoodNotes 6. While it has been superseded by the newer version, it remains a highly capable and stable note-taking app. Many users prefer it because it doesn't require a subscription and offers a familiar, proven interface. It still supports all the core features like handwriting, PDF annotation, and folder organization. However, it lacks the newer AI features and the refined UI of version 6. It is a great choice for users who want a reliable, one-time purchase app and don't need the latest bells and whistles.

How good is GoodNotes 5?

GoodNotes 5 scores 8.9/10 (Very Good) on Lunoo, making it a well-rated option in the App Control category. GoodNotes 5 scores 8.9/10 because it delivers exceptional note-taking with a mature, reliable interface that many users still prefer over newer versio...

How much does GoodNotes 5 cost?

From N/A (no longer sold). Visit the official website for the most up-to-date pricing.

What are the best alternatives to GoodNotes 5?

See our alternatives page for GoodNotes 5 for a ranked list with scores. Top alternatives include: Apple App Store, Apple HomeKit, DayOne.

What is GoodNotes 5 best for?

Users who prefer a one-time purchase over subscriptions and need reliable, offline note-taking with excellent Apple Pencil support on iPad.

How does GoodNotes 5 compare to Apple App Store?

See our detailed comparison of GoodNotes 5 vs Apple App Store with scores, features, and an AI-powered verdict.

Is GoodNotes 5 worth it in 2026?

With a score of 8.9/10, GoodNotes 5 is highly rated in App Control. See all App Control ranked.

What are the key specifications of GoodNotes 5?

Status: Discontinued (superseded by GoodNotes 6)
Platforms: iOS, iPadOS, macOS
Templates: Pre-built templates, custom template creation
Last Version: 5.7.x
Offline Mode: Yes - full functionality without internet
Organization: Folders, subfolders, nested tags, favorites

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8.9

Very Good

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Why this score

GoodNotes 5 scores 8.9/10 because it delivers exceptional note-taking with a mature, reliable interface that many users still prefer over newer versions. The one-time purchase model and full offline functionality are significant advantages. It loses points because it's no longer actively developed, lacks modern AI features found in competitors, and will eventually face compatibility challenges as operating systems evolve.

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