10 Best Cross-Platform Writing Apps 2024

Looking for the perfect writing app that works across all your devices? Here’s a quick rundown of the top 10 cross-platform writing apps for 2024:

1. Google Docs – Best for collaboration
2. Microsoft Word – Most feature-rich
3. Ulysses – Great for Apple users
4. Scrivener – Ideal for long-form writing
5. DeepWriter AI – AI-powered writing assistant
6. iA Writer – Distraction-free writing
7. Notion – All-in-one workspace
8. Byword – Simple Markdown editor
9. Bear – Sleek note-taking for Apple users
10. Zoho Writer – Offline-capable with team features

Related video from YouTube

Quick Comparison

Choose based on your needs: collaboration, distraction-free writing, long-form projects, or AI assistance. Many offer free trials, so test a few before deciding.

1. Google Docs

Google Docs is a powerhouse writing app that works across platforms. It’s free, easy to use, and packed with features. Writers, students, and professionals love it for its real-time collaboration and cloud access.

Why Google Docs Rocks

Google Docs isn’t just another writing tool. It’s a game-changer. Here’s why:

• You can work with up to 100 people at once. It’s perfect for team projects.
• Your work is stored in the cloud. Access it from any device with internet.
• It saves automatically. No more lost work.
• You can see old versions of your document. Made a mistake? No problem.
• You can work offline too (if you set it up).

Teamwork Made Simple

Google Docs shines when it comes to collaboration. Multiple people can edit the same document at the same time. You see changes instantly. It’s a lifesaver for remote teams and group projects.

"Google Docs lets me see exactly what my students are doing. It’s a game-changer for remote learning." – A teacher using Google Docs

Use It Anywhere, Anytime

Google Docs lives in the cloud. That means you can access your work from any device with internet. It also plays nice with other Google tools like Drive, Sheets, and Slides. And it works with apps like Dropbox and Zapier too.

What’s the Cost?

For personal use, Google Docs is FREE. Can’t beat that price! But if you’re a business, you can get more features with Google Workspace:

How to Use Google Docs Offline

Want to use Google Docs without internet? Here’s how:

1. Open Google Drive (with internet).
2. Click the gear icon, then "Settings."
3. Check the box for "Sync Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Drawings to this computer."

On your phone? Tap the three dots next to a document and turn on "Available offline."

Google Docs is a top pick for writers in 2024. It’s great for teamwork, easy to use, and works on all your devices. Whether you’re writing a book, working on a group project, or just jotting down ideas, Google Docs has got you covered.

2. Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word is still a big player in cross-platform writing apps. In 2024, it’s got some cool new tricks up its sleeve.

Cloud Sync: Write Anywhere

Word’s OneDrive integration is pretty sweet:

• Edit on your phone, tablet, or computer
• Changes save automatically
• Work offline? No problem. It’ll sync when you’re back online

Team Up Like a Pro

Word’s collaboration features are top-notch:

• Multiple people can edit at the same time
• Track changes and go back to old versions
• AI can sum up your docs for quick sharing

Make Your Docs Look Good

Word’s formatting tools are hard to beat:

What’ll It Cost You?

Word’s got options:

AI Helper: Copilot

Word’s new AI buddy, Copilot, is pretty cool:

• Helps with writing and formatting
• Summarizes long docs
• Works in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more

"Copilot turns hours of work into minutes", says Jared Spataro from Microsoft.

Use It Everywhere

Word works on pretty much everything:

• Full app for Windows and Mac
• Solid apps for phones and tablets
• Use it in your web browser

Who’s It For?

Word’s great if you:

• Use a lot of Microsoft stuff
• Need fancy formatting
• Work with teams
• Often work without internet

In 2024, Word isn’t just for typing. It’s a full-on writing and teamwork tool that works everywhere. If you need something powerful and flexible, Word’s worth a look.

3. Ulysses

Ulysses is a writing app for Apple users that’s all about focus. It’s clean, simple, and packs a punch for both short and long-form writing. Here’s what you need to know about Ulysses in 2024:

Key Features

Writing Experience

Ulysses is all about getting you in the zone. It’s minimal, but don’t let that fool you:

• Pick your writing mode: typewriter, dark, minimal, or full-screen.
• Break big projects into smaller "sheets".
• Set word count goals to keep you on track.

"If you’re a serious writer, Ulysses is worth every penny." – Mark McElroy, Author and Reviewer

Sync and Backup

No more lost work nightmares:

• Your writing syncs across all your Apple devices.
• Automatic backups every 12 hours, 7 days, and 6 months.

Pricing

Ulysses uses a subscription model:

• $5.99/month
• $49.99/year
• 14-day free trial

Some users debate the subscription, but it means regular updates and new features.

Who’s It For?

Ulysses is perfect if you:

• Use Apple devices
• Want a distraction-free writing space
• Like Markdown
• Juggle multiple writing projects

The Ulysses Edge

Ulysses looks simple but packs a punch:

• Add notes and research in the sidebar.
• Export to various formats or publish straight to WordPress.
• Use keywords to organize your work.

For Apple users who want a pro-level writing tool in 2024, Ulysses streamlines your process from idea to publish. It’s constantly evolving, so expect new features to keep rolling in.

4. Scrivener

Scrivener is a beast of a writing tool. It’s built for long-form content and research, and it’s the weapon of choice for many top-selling authors, screenwriters, and non-fiction writers. Let’s see why it’s still a big deal in 2024.

Key Features

Writing Experience

Scrivener shines when you’re not writing in a straight line. You can hop between different parts of your project without scrolling through a massive document. It’s perfect if your brain doesn’t work in perfect order (whose does?).

"Scrivener is our go-to app for long-form writing projects." – Scrivener Review

Syncing Across Devices

In 2024, you need your stuff everywhere. Here’s how Scrivener handles it:

1. Desktop to Mobile Sync

You can sync between your computer and iOS devices using Dropbox:

• Set up a Dropbox account (the free 2GB plan works for most)
• Turn on syncing in Scrivener’s settings
• Follow the "Sync, Close, Open, Sync" rule when switching devices

2. Sync Best Practices

• Don’t open the same project on multiple devices at once
• Make sure Dropbox has finished syncing before you open a project
• Skip iCloud Drive for Scrivener projects (it can mess up your files)

Pricing

Scrivener keeps it simple with a one-time purchase:

• Scrivener 3 for desktop: $45 (yours forever)
• iOS version: $19 (one-time buy)

They also offer a 30 non-consecutive day trial. That’s plenty of time to kick the tires.

Who’s It For?

Scrivener is great for:

• Novelists juggling complex, multi-chapter books
• Academic researchers drowning in data and citations
• Screenwriters organizing scenes and character arcs
• Non-fiction authors wrangling multiple sources and chapters

The Scrivener Edge

What makes Scrivener special is how it handles big, messy writing projects. The Binder lets you break your work into bite-sized pieces, while the Corkboard gives you a bird’s-eye view of your project.

You can even set word count goals for your whole project or just today’s writing session. It’s like having a personal trainer for your writing.

Yes, Scrivener can be tricky to learn. But for serious writers in 2024, its power and flexibility make it worth the effort. If you’re tackling a big writing project, Scrivener’s organizational tools and distraction-free writing environment might be just what you need to turn your ideas into reality.

5. DeepWriter AI

DeepWriter AI is a new writing tool that uses AI to help you write better. It works on different devices and has some cool features that make it stand out in 2024.

Key Features

How It Works

DeepWriter AI mixes your creativity with AI help. It’s like having a smart writing buddy. The AI can suggest plot ideas, help with character stories, and even help when you’re stuck.

"Using DeepWriter AI is like having a bunch of expert writers helping me. It’s changed how I write." – Sarah Chen, Popular Sci-Fi Author

Pricing

DeepWriter AI has two main plans:

Who Should Use It?

DeepWriter AI is great for:

• Novel writers who want AI help with their stories
• Students writing research papers
• Content creators looking for tips on specific types of writing
• Writers curious about how AI can help with writing

What Makes It Special

DeepWriter AI is different because it works WITH you, not just FOR you. It’s not just a blank page – it’s a smart writing partner. It’s especially good at helping with different types of writing, like mysteries, science papers, or fantasy stories.

You can also choose how much help you want from the AI. Want just a little nudge? Or more direct help? DeepWriter AI can do both.

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6. iA Writer

iA Writer is a no-frills writing app that cuts out the noise. It’s built for writers who want to get down to business without fancy bells and whistles.

Key Features

Writing Experience

iA Writer keeps it simple. Here’s what you get:

• A clean, white canvas for your words
• A custom monospaced font that’s easy on the eyes
• Focus Mode that dims everything but what you’re working on

One user puts it this way:

"iA Writer changed how I write. It feels like the digital version of a trusty typewriter." – João Ferreira, Assistant Professor (Design), Portugal

Pricing

No subscriptions here. Just one-time buys:

• Mac: $8.99 (half off)
• iPad: $1.99 (60% off)

Who’s It For?

iA Writer hits the spot for:

• Bloggers who need to tune out distractions
• Authors tackling big writing projects
• Anyone who likes a clean, fuss-free writing space

The iA Writer Edge

iA Writer keeps things simple, and it works. It’s racked up App Store awards for its design. Writers dig it because:

• It helps you cut the fluff from your writing
• It makes editing smoother
• It plays nice with markdown

Quick Tips

1. Use Focus Mode to zero in on your current thought.
2. Try the Style Check to tighten up your writing.
3. Save your work in Git for easy version tracking.

iA Writer shows that sometimes, you need less to do more. By stripping away the extras, it lets writers do what they do best: write.

7. Notion

Notion isn’t just another writing app. It’s a digital Swiss Army knife for your workspace. Here’s why it’s making waves in 2024:

More Than Words on a Page

Notion blends writing, project management, and teamwork into one package. You can:

• Write and format docs
• Build a team knowledge base
• Plan product roadmaps
• Manage sprints
• Publish blogs

It’s like having an entire office suite in your pocket.

Bend It, Shape It, Any Way You Want It

Notion’s superpower? Flexibility. Create:

You’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all approach. Mold Notion to fit YOUR writing style.

Team Players Welcome

Got collaborators? Notion’s got your back:

• Share pages for input
• Write together in real-time
• Control who sees what

Think of it as a virtual writers’ room where everyone can pitch in.

Pay As You Grow

Notion’s pricing fits teams of all sizes:

The Trade-Off: Power vs. Simplicity

Notion packs a punch, but it comes with a catch: it can be a lot to take in at first. One Capterra user put it this way:

"Notion is an extremely flexible software. Thanks to their databases and multiple views like calendar, Kanban, tables, and lists. I found it to be extremely intuitive and fun to use."

But all that flexibility means you’ll need to invest some time to learn the ropes. Dive into templates and tutorials to get the most out of it.

Writer’s Block? Not on Notion’s Watch

Stuck on your next piece? Notion can help:

• Set up brainstorming spaces
• Organize your research
• Track your progress

It’s like having a writing buddy who never sleeps.

Is Notion Your Next Writing Companion?

Consider jumping on the Notion train if you:

• Juggle multiple writing gigs
• Work with others often
• Need a central spot for ideas and research
• Want to ditch multiple apps for one do-it-all platform

Notion shines for writers who need more than just a blank page. It’s a chameleon, adapting to your writing style and project needs in ways other apps can’t match.

8. Byword

Byword is a clean Markdown editor for Apple users who want simplicity. It’s like a blank page on your screen – inviting and clutter-free.

Key Features

Writing Experience

Byword is all about minimalism. It gives you a distraction-free space to focus on your writing:

• Focus Mode dims everything except what you’re working on
• Typewriter Mode keeps your typing centered
• You can hide the Mac program bar for a clean look

These aren’t just fancy add-ons. They’re designed to keep you in the zone, whether you’re writing a blog post or brainstorming ideas.

Pricing

Byword keeps it simple:

For about $17, you get Byword on all your Apple devices. No subscriptions, no recurring fees – just a one-time purchase.

Who’s It For?

Byword is great for:

• Bloggers who need to write and publish quickly
• Writers who like a clean, focused environment
• Apple fans
• Anyone learning Markdown

The Byword Edge

What makes Byword stand out? It focuses on the basics. It’s not trying to be your do-it-all writing tool. Instead, it’s a simple, efficient text editor that stays out of your way.

"Byword is one the best Markdown app for Apple users and can help writers fulfill their dreams of typing on an iPhone or iPad without the need to worry about a mouse or expensive folio."

But this simplicity has trade-offs. Byword doesn’t have the organizational tools you’d find in apps like Scrivener or Ulysses. It’s not built for managing big projects or complex writing workflows.

Pro Tips

1. Use the built-in table of contents to organize longer pieces.

2. Check your formatting with "Preview Markdown" before publishing.

3. Learn Markdown syntax to get the most out of Byword.

Byword shows that sometimes, less is more. For Apple users who want a straightforward writing tool that helps their creative process without too many bells and whistles, Byword hits the spot.

9. Bear

Bear is a sleek note-taking app for Apple users. Launched in 2016, it’s known for its clean interface and powerful features.

Key Features

Writing Experience

Bear’s strength? Simplicity. It offers a distraction-free environment that’s perfect for quick ideas or longer pieces.

"Bear combines extreme power with elegance and simplicity. It can be whatever you want and gets out of your way!" – App Store review

Pricing

Bear has a free version with basic features. For more:

• Bear Pro: $2.99/month or $29.99/year

This unlocks syncing, themes, and exports.

Who It’s For

Bear is great for:

• Apple users
• Design-conscious writers
• Flexible note-takers
• Markdown fans

The Bear Advantage

Bear balances simplicity and power. It won Apple’s App of the Year for Mac in 2016. Why? Its hashtag system for organizing notes is smart and powerful, without cluttering the interface.

Bear’s CEO, Danilo Bonardi, says: "We can’t compete with apps that do a lot, and we don’t want to." This shows in Bear’s design, which puts smooth writing first.

Pro Tips

1. Use OCR search to find text in images and PDFs
2. Try different themes for your perfect writing setup
3. Add inline sketches to your notes

Bear shows that sometimes, less IS more in writing apps. Its focus on a beautiful, efficient writing experience makes it a top choice for Apple users in 2024.

10. Zoho Writer

Zoho Writer is more than just another online document editor. It’s a powerhouse that works offline and plays well with others. Part of the Zoho family (with over 45 apps), it’s a top pick for teams who want their tools to talk to each other.

Key Features

Writing Experience

Zoho Writer keeps it clean and simple. No clutter, just you and your words. But don’t let the sleek look fool you – it’s got muscle under the hood. Advanced formatting? Check. Markdown support? You bet.

TechRadar says: "Zoho Writer is like Microsoft Word and Google Docs had a baby, and it grew up to be cooler than both its parents."

Offline Magic

Here’s why Zoho Writer’s offline mode is a game-changer:

• Kicks in automatically when you lose internet
• Keeps your 20 latest docs ready to go
• Let’s you start new docs offline
• Updates everything when you’re back online

So, whether you’re on a plane or in a coffee shop with dodgy Wi-Fi, your work doesn’t stop.

Pricing

Zoho Writer has options for every budget:

Who’s It For?

Zoho Writer is perfect if you:

• Work with a team and need real-time collaboration
• Often find yourself writing without internet
• Want to automate document creation
• Care about keeping your data safe

Why Choose Zoho Writer?

Zoho Writer nails the balance between simple and powerful. It’s easy on the eyes but packs a punch where it counts. And that offline mode? It’s a lifesaver.

In 2024, Zoho Writer has leveled up. Now you can:

• Generate documents automatically
• Sign docs digitally
• Create and manage forms

It’s become a one-stop-shop for all your document needs, from contracts to proposals.

But let’s keep it real – it’s not perfect. Some users say the spell-check could be better, and it might slow down a bit when you’re moving big chunks of text. Still, these are small potatoes compared to what it can do.

If you’re after a writing app that works everywhere, plays nice with others, and doesn’t overcomplicate things, Zoho Writer deserves a spot on your shortlist in 2024.

Features and Pricing Comparison

Let’s compare the top cross-platform writing apps for 2024. This breakdown will help you pick the best tool for your needs and budget.

What Makes Each App Special?

Google Docs is a collaboration powerhouse. Up to 100 people can work on a document at the same time. Plus, it saves your work automatically in the cloud. No more lost drafts!

Microsoft Word is the old reliable of word processors. But it’s not stuck in the past. It now has an AI assistant called Copilot. And its track changes feature? It’s still the best for professional editing.

Ulysses and iA Writer are for those who want to focus on just writing. Ulysses has more tools for long projects, while iA Writer keeps things simple with Markdown support.

Scrivener is the Swiss Army knife of writing apps. Its corkboard view and research tools make it a hit with novelists and academics working on big, complex projects.

How Much Will It Cost You?

These apps have different ways of charging:

• Some, like Ulysses and Microsoft Word, want you to subscribe monthly or yearly.
• Others, like Scrivener and iA Writer, let you buy them outright.
• Google Docs, Notion, and Zoho Writer? They’re free to start, but you can pay for extra features.

If you’re watching your wallet, Google Docs gives you a lot for free. But if you’re a pro, you might find Scrivener or Microsoft Word worth the investment.

Which Devices Can You Use?

Not all apps work on all devices:

• Google Docs and Notion work pretty much everywhere.
• Ulysses and Bear? They’re Apple-only. Great if you’re all-in on Apple, not so much if you’re not.
• Scrivener is big on desktops, has an iOS app, but doesn’t play with Android.

How to Choose?

It all depends on what you need:

• Working with others? Google Docs or Notion might be your best bet.
• Writing a novel? Take a look at Scrivener or Ulysses.
• Want to just write without distractions? Try iA Writer or Byword.
• Need all the bells and whistles? Microsoft Word is still hard to beat.

Pick the app that fits how you work. The best writing app is the one that helps you get your words down without getting in your way.

Which App Should You Choose?

Choosing a writing app can be tricky. Here’s a breakdown based on your needs:

For Collaboration

Google Docs is your best bet. It’s free and lets up to 100 people edit at once. Great for group projects or getting feedback.

For Novel Writing

Scrivener is a powerhouse for novelists. It helps organize chapters, track research, and storyboard ideas. It costs $49 for a lifetime license.

For Distraction-Free Writing

iA Writer and Ulysses are top picks for a clean, focused writing environment.

For Budget Writers

Google Docs is free and feature-rich. Zoho Writer offers a free plan and paid options from $3/month.

For Multi-Device Users

Microsoft Word works on phones, tablets, and computers. Plans start at $5.99/month.

For AI Assistance

DeepWriter AI offers AI writing help. There’s a free plan, with more features at $30/month.

"The best writing app fits your writing style and preferences", says Jill Duffy, PCMag contributor.

Many apps offer free trials, so test a few before deciding.

If you’re writing a book, check out Atticus. It combines writing and formatting tools for $147.

The right app will feel natural and let your words flow. Pick one and start writing – don’t let the tool overshadow your craft.

FAQs

What is the best app to help with writing?

The best writing app depends on what you need. Here are some top picks for 2024:

Scrivener shines for big projects like novels or research papers. It’s got tools to keep your work organized.

"Scrivener has templates and tools for a variety of genres and forms." – Simon Whistler, writer and podcaster

Want to focus? Try Ulysses. It cuts out the clutter so you can just write.

What is the best app for long form writing?

For long-form writing, two apps stand out:

1. Scrivener

Great for novelists, academics, and big project lovers. It offers:

• Organizational tools (Binder, Corkboard, Outliner)
• Templates for different types of writing
• Ways to break down your project into smaller pieces

2. Ulysses

Perfect if you like things simple and focused. You get:

• A clean writing space with no distractions
• iCloud sync for Apple devices
• Markdown support for easy formatting

Scrivener’s packed with features. Ulysses keeps things simple. Your choice? It depends on whether you want all the bells and whistles or just a clean page to write on.

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