Apple Journal alternative: meet Diarly
Apple’s Journal app, released iOS 17.2, has brought the practice of keeping a diary to countless people. And while it’s a great introductory tool if you’re dipping your toes into this timeless practice, does it really offer everything you need to keep a diary, and get all of its benefits?
Apple Journal vs Diarly
In this page, we compare Apple’s Journal app with Diarly. We will go over privacy, personalization and customization, data portability, advanced features, and pricing structure so you can decide which journaling app fits long-term writing.
Availability
Apple Journal | Diarly | |
|---|---|---|
iPhone | ||
iPad | ||
Mac | ||
Apple Watch |
Apple’s Journal app is not yet available on Mac or Apple Watch. With Diarly, you can journal anywhere with Apple Watch, using dictation or voice recordings. Diarly is available for Mac, iPhone, and iPad, so you can truly journal anywhere, anytime.
Feature comparison
Apple Journal | Diarly | |
|---|---|---|
Customizable ThemesCustomize your journaling experience with dozens of customizable themes. | ||
Markdown SupportWrite your journal entries using Markdown for easy formatting and styling. | ||
Custom BackgroundsMake your journal truly yours with custom backgrounds. | ||
Import journalsImport unlimited entries easily from 15+ other journaling apps, including Apple Journal, to make Diarly your new home. | ||
Export journalsExport your journals to PDF for sharing or printing, or Markdown for backup. | ||
Writing GoalsSet daily writing goals to keep you motivated and on track. | ||
Advanced Search & OrganizationOrganize and find your journal entries easily with tags, smart filters, and advanced search. | ||
Writing-Focused UXEnjoy a distraction-free writing experience with a purposefully designed editor and keyboard shortcuts. | ||
Journal TemplatesCreate your own templates to streamline your journaling process. | ||
Journaling SuggestionsUse Apple's private Journaling Suggestions. |
Apple Journal covers the basics, but Diarly is built for people who actually enjoy shaping their journaling practice over time. From full Markdown support to deep customization and easy import/export, Diarly treats your journal as fully yours, and is built as a tool designed for long-term use.
Security and Privacy
Apple Journal | Diarly | |
|---|---|---|
Password ProtectionSecure your journal entries with password protection and biometric unlocking. | ||
EncryptionYour entries are secure on iCloud, with advanced password encryption. | ||
Cross-Platform SyncSync your journal entries across all your devices seamlessly. |
Diarly’s advanced encryption ensures that no one can access your journal without your password: not even us.
Support and Community
Apple Journal | Diarly | |
|---|---|---|
Personal and fast customer supportWe listen to all the feedback and suggestions, and respond quickly to all support requests. | ||
CommunityJoin the Diarly community on Reddit. | ||
Regular updatesCheck out what's coming next on our Roadmap. |
Diarly is built by a small, fully remote team, which means there’s no distance between the people using the app and the people building it. We receive and discuss your feedback right away, and often act on it directly. That closeness shows up in thoughtful updates, quick support, and features shaped by real-world journaling habits.
Elevate your journaling experience today with Diarly.
Journaling is a long game, and its value comes from showing up over years, and from trusting that the tool you’re using will grow with you. Diarly is designed with that kind of longevity in mind. We’re careful and respectful with your data, and we’re responsive and open to communication.
Diarly is built at a sustainable pace by people who actually use it themselves. If Apple Journal is a great place to start, Diarly is a place to settle in—and keep writing for the long run.