Key takeaways
- Currently in beta with waitlist-only access
- True plain-text markdown with no reformatting on open/copy/paste
- VS Code-inspired editing with multiple cursors and expand selection
FAQ
What is Nota app?
Nota is a beta macOS markdown editor designed for local files with wiki links, powerful editing, and extensibility through custom scripts.
Is Nota available to download?
Nota is currently in closed beta on macOS. You must request an invite from nota.md to join the waitlist.
What are alternatives to Nota?
Alternatives include Obsidian, FSNotes, iA Writer, and VS Code with markdown extensions.
Executive Summary
Nota is a macOS markdown notes application that spent six years in development before entering public beta in 2021. Designed for power users who want "pro" editing features with local markdown files, Nota emphasizes true plain-text storage with no transformations, VS Code-style editing, and extensibility through custom scripts. The app remains in beta with waitlist-only access.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Company | NotaHQ |
| Founded | ~2015 (6 years before 2021 beta) |
| Funding | Unknown |
| Employees | Small team |
| Headquarters | Unknown |
Product Overview
Nota targets the gap between simple markdown editors and full development environments like VS Code. The app promises powerful editing features—multiple cursors, expand selection, intelligent completions—while maintaining complete data ownership through local markdown files with no cloud dependency.
Key Capabilities
| Capability | Description |
|---|---|
| Multiple Cursors | Make ten edits at the same time, not one edit ten times |
| Expand Selection | Quickly select current element or any parent |
| Wiki Links | [[wiki]] syntax with auto-updating links on file rename |
| Backlinks | See what notes link to current note |
| Extensibility | Custom scripts for commands, hooks, and completions |
Product Surfaces / Editions
| Surface | Description | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| macOS | Native Mac app | Beta (waitlist) |
| iOS | Not announced | N/A |
| Windows | Not announced | N/A |
Technical Architecture
Nota works directly with markdown files on disk, supporting Dropbox, iCloud Drive, or any folder structure you manage yourself. The app promises "true plain-text" with no reformatting on open and no transformations on copy/paste.
Key Technical Details
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Storage | Local markdown files (any folder) |
| Sync | User-managed (Dropbox, iCloud, etc.) |
| Format | Standard Markdown with wiki link extensions |
| Extensions | Custom scripts in various languages |
| Open Source | No |
Strengths
- True plain text — No hidden transformations; files are exactly what you write
- Power user editing — VS Code-inspired features like multiple cursors and expand selection
- Complete ownership — Local files work with any app, now or 50 years from now
- Wiki links — Bidirectional linking with automatic link updates on rename
- Extensible — Custom scripts for commands, hooks, and workflows
Cautions
- Still in beta — Not generally available; requires waitlist invite
- macOS only — No iOS, Windows, or web version announced
- Unknown viability — Limited public information about company and funding
- Limited ecosystem — New app without established plugin/community ecosystem
- Pricing unknown — No published pricing model
Pricing & Licensing
| Tier | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Beta | Free (waitlist) | Current beta access |
| GA Pricing | TBA | Not announced |
Licensing model: Unknown; pricing not yet announced
Hidden costs: Unknown until general availability
Competitive Positioning
Direct Competitors
| Competitor | Differentiation |
|---|---|
| Obsidian | Nota claims cleaner editing; Obsidian has established ecosystem and mobile apps |
| FSNotes | Nota has more advanced editing; FSNotes is open source and free |
| VS Code | Nota is purpose-built for notes; VS Code requires extension setup |
When to Choose Nota Over Alternatives
- Choose Nota when: You want VS Code-level editing in a dedicated notes app
- Choose Obsidian when: You need mobile apps, plugins, and an established ecosystem
- Choose FSNotes when: You want open source and free with proven stability
Ideal Customer Profile
Best fit:
- Power users who want advanced editing without VS Code complexity
- Developers familiar with code editor features
- People who value true plain-text storage
Poor fit:
- Users needing mobile access
- People wanting a stable, established product
- Anyone uncomfortable with beta software
Viability Assessment
| Factor | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Financial Health | Unknown |
| Market Position | Emerging |
| Innovation Pace | Slow (6+ years in development) |
| Community/Ecosystem | Limited |
| Long-term Outlook | Uncertain |
With six years of development before entering beta and limited public information about the company, Nota's long-term viability is difficult to assess. The extended development timeline raises questions about sustainable development pace.
Bottom Line
Nota promises an intriguing middle ground between simple markdown editors and full code editors, but its extended beta and limited visibility make it hard to recommend over established alternatives. Worth watching for power users, but wait for general availability before committing.
Recommended for: Power users who want to try the latest in markdown editing and don't mind beta software.
Not recommended for: Anyone needing mobile apps, stable software, or proven long-term support.
Outlook: Promising concept but unclear execution; needs to ship GA to prove viability.
Research by Ry Walker Research • methodology