OneNote, previously known as “OneNote 2016,” is a free desktop application that is compatible with all Microsoft Windows versions and is included in Office 2019 and Microsoft 365. On the other hand, OneNote for Windows 10 is a pre-installed app that comes with all editions of Windows 10.
Let’s delve into the detailed difference between OneNote and OneNote for Windows 10.
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Onenote vs Onenote For Windows 10
The key differences between these versions can be observed in the following:
OneNote is a free desktop application that is part of the Microsoft Office suite. It can be used on all supported versions of Microsoft Windows and is included in Office 2019 and Microsoft 365.
OneNote has a wide range of features, including the ability to create notebooks, sections, and pages, as well as add images, tables, and audio recordings. It also supports handwriting recognition and allows users to search for text within images.
OneNote for Windows 10, on the other hand, is a pre-installed app that comes with all editions of Windows 10. It has a modern and slimmed-down user interface and is designed to work seamlessly with other Windows 10 apps.
OneNote for Windows 10 also allows users to create notebooks, sections, and pages, but it has fewer features than the other version. For instance, it lacks support for some add-ins and does not have handwriting recognition capabilities.
Page Setup
In OneNote, you have the option to customize the page size and layout according to your preference. This can be done by selecting a built-in page size, such as letter, legal, A4, or by setting a custom page height and width. Additionally, OneNote allows you to modify other page settings, including page orientation, margins, and page direction.
In contrast, OneNote for Windows 10 limits your page size customization to the Windows Print function when printing your notes. Therefore, you won’t be able to adjust the page size or layout directly within the app.
Sharing Options
When it comes to sharing options, there is not much difference between OneNote and OneNote for Windows 10. Both allow you to add email addresses and manage permissions, including view and edit permissions.
However, OneNote has a couple of additional features that are only available if you have an Office subscription. These features include the ability to set an expiration date for the shared link and to protect notes with a password.
Recording
OneNote for Windows 10 only enables you to record audio. In comparison, OneNote provides the ability to record and insert both audio and video into your notes.
Templates
OneNote provides a wide variety of templates to help users organize their notes efficiently. These templates are designed to cater to different needs, such as taking meeting notes, creating to-do lists, tracking expenses, and more.
On the other hand, OneNote for Windows 10 does not offer pre-built templates. However, users can create custom templates and save them for later use.
Exporting options
OneNote for Windows 10 offers limited exporting options, allowing users to only send notes via email. However, there is a workaround for saving notes as PDF and XPS documents from the Print Note section.
OneNote on the other hand, offers more flexibility as it supports exporting notes in OneNote, XPS. PDF, etc. format. This makes it easier to share and save your notes across different devices and platforms.
Data Backup
OneNote offers a local data backup option to ensure that your notes are protected in case of data loss or device failure. OneNote for Windows 10, unfortunately, doesn’t offer such an option.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between OneNote and OneNote for Windows 10 comes down to personal preference and specific needs. If you require more advanced note-taking features and flexibility, OneNote might be the better option.
If you need a straightforward note-taking app that integrates seamlessly with your Windows 10 device, OneNote for Windows 10 might be the better choice.
