Keeping a journal can be beneficial, but sometimes keeping a pen and paper on-hand at all times can be annoying. While writing down your feelings and thoughts in a physical journal has advantages, digital journals can still give you the same experience with added convenience.
For example, if you’re always using your computer, you can easily access the app whenever inspiration strikes. In addition, searching past entries will be such a breeze. So, if you’re starting a new writing habit, here are the best journal apps you should install on your Windows 10 computer.
1. Journal
If you love the idea of physically writing down your thoughts and have a Windows 10 device with stylus-and-pen displays, Journal is perfect for you. This app was created from Microsoft Garage, a program launched in 2014 that allows Microsoft employees to build projects and apps that they’re passionate about.
As one of the best Microsoft Garage creations, users can have the tangible experience of directly scribbling their feelings away while enjoying organizational elements, panes, and other features that you get from journaling apps.
In addition, it includes many usability features such as deleting text that you’ve written, linking to sites and contacts by writing down certain icons on the screen. Furthermore, you can quickly transfer your journals between different apps.
Download: Journal (Free)
2. Friday
The Friday Journal and Planner application has everything you might need in a digital journal. In addition, the app is fully customizable, allowing you to set up different types of journals. For example, you can create a "gratitude diary," where you can get reminders to write down things you’re thankful for.
Aside from that, you can also track your mood, set weekly goals, create morning routines, and do many other things that can help you organize your life. In addition, you can also view all your journaling activities at the end of the month in a convenient monthly review.
Friday can also be used as a digital bullet journal if you’re looking to try a different approach. It can also be integrated with your calendar and task apps so you can put all the information you need across other apps. With all of these features, paying for an individual account for $4 a month is reasonable. But don’t worry, there’s a free version too.
Download: Friday (Free, paid version available)
3. Evernote
Evernote is one of the most flexible note-taking apps available today. You can use it for almost anything you can imagine, so why not use it for journaling as well? It has all the features you need for a journal app; it’s free and available on almost every platform. Plus, you may already have it installed on your computer.
All you need to do is create a new notebook, and you can start journaling right away. Evernote’s features offer different ways to compose and manage your; just choose which one is best for your habit.
Download: Evernote (Free, paid version available)
4. Diarium
If you need an app that allows you to add different elements to your entries, Diarium is a great choice. Unlike many journaling apps with many limitations when it comes to entry attachments, this software allows you to insert photos, audio, videos, and other files into your journal. You can even tag your posts and see them on a map, as well as rate your day.
Diarium features several backup options, allowing you to export your journal entries however you want. It even provides statistics on your journals, so you can keep track of what you’re writing down. In addition, you can connect it to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Untappd, Google Fit, and Swarm, letting you link entries automatically to your posts.
It’s also available on Android, iOS, and macOS. So if you want to use your digital journal on all of your devices, this is for you. However, you need to pay $19.99 for the app, but it’s justifiable given the features it offers.
Note: Diarium is currently priced at $7.99 until January 31, 2022.
Download: Diarium ($19.99)
5. Journey
Journey might look plain and simple, but this app has a modern feel that replicates the Instagram experience. Although it’s not free, it’s available on many platforms like Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Web, and Linux, and it even allows you to make entries via your email. It’s also packed with features you’ll need in a digital journal.
This journal app is more of a capture moment journaling rather than a powerhouse diary where you heavily write down everything you feel in one go. Basically, it is designed to help users create a daily self-care habit of journaling. So if you’re still new to journaling and want something lightweight and less intimidating, Diarium is an ideal option.
The app is priced at $2.49 per month, but you’ll also get access to guided journal coaching programs apart from the app itself. There’s a free version available on the web that you can try, so you can experience it before buying.
Download: Journey (Free for web, paid version available)
6. Glimpses
One downside of physical journals is their limited pages, not to mention the cost of buying one. Glimpses may still cost you a one-time fee of $12.99, but it allows you to record as many entries as you want. It also has a sleek design with a clean interface that comes with various useful features that are not overwhelming.
Through the app, you can create basic text posts and add photos to your entries. However, it doesn’t include fancy features such as inserting audio or drawings. But, you have the option to give access to your journals through a shareable link. The app uses Dropbox for cloud storage.
The Glimpses app also makes it easier for you to find something you wrote through its search feature and calendar view. While it only comes with basic formatting tools, they’re enough for many users, especially if you just want something to write your thoughts down. Plus, its developers claim that they’ll be releasing an Android and iOS app soon, making it easy for those who like to access their journals on different platforms.
However, you’re only allowed to export your files to PDF. So, if you want to switch to a different digital journal later, this might be a problem. But, if you like something simple and don’t mind a few missing features, you can stick to Glimpses instead.
Download: Glimpses ($12.99)
The Best Journal App for You
The best journaling app for you always depends on what you plan to use it for. Are you after fancy features, or do you only need a basic one? At the same time, if you’re just trying out journaling, it’s best to download something free rather than pay for something that you’ll not use later on. Remember, journaling is a commitment, and downloading an app is only the start of it.