Obsidian vs Bear (2026 comparison)
Obsidian and Bear are both note-taking apps. Obsidian is best for local-first markdown notes and linked knowledge graphs (free without limits, including commercial use; optional Sync from about $4 per user per month and Publish from about $8 per site per month). Bear is best for elegant markdown writing on Apple devices (free tier; Pro from about $2.99 per month).
Pricing and features verified against each vendor's published information on 2026-09-03. Sources linked below.
At a glance
| Feature | Obsidian | Bear |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing from | Free without limits, including commercial use; optional Sync from about $4 per user per month and Publish from about $8 per site per month | Free tier; Pro from about $2.99 per month |
| Best for | local-first markdown notes and linked knowledge graphs | elegant markdown writing on Apple devices |
| Founded | 2020 | 2016 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux | iOS, Mac |
Quick verdict
Choose Obsidian for local-first markdown notes and linked knowledge graphs. Choose Bear for elegant markdown writing on Apple devices. Both are compared on published information only, so confirm current pricing at each source below.
More options
Sources
FAQ
- Is Obsidian or Bear cheaper?
- As published, Obsidian starts at Free without limits, including commercial use; optional Sync from about $4 per user per month and Publish from about $8 per site per month and Bear starts at Free tier; Pro from about $2.99 per month. Verify current pricing at each vendor.
- Does Obsidian have a free plan?
- Yes, Obsidian has a free plan as of 2026-09-03.