Standard Notes is a note-taking app made for people who want to keep their notes private. It can store personal notes, to-do items, passwords, journal entries, meeting notes, recipes, and other text. The Android app can also sync notes with Windows, iPhone, Mac, Linux, and the web.
The free version supports unlimited notes and unlimited devices. It also lets you use notes offline, so downloaded notes can still be opened when there is no internet connection.
The main reason to use Standard Notes is its focus on privacy. The developer says notes use end-to-end encryption, so the note content is designed to remain readable only by the user.
Device Resources & Safety
The regular Android package listed by APKMirror is about 42.04 MB for version 3.201.31. A newer F-Droid build is larger at 85.46 MB, so the size depends on the version and distribution source.
The final storage shown by Android can be higher than the download size because the phone also stores app data and downloaded notes. There is no single fixed installed-storage number because it changes as you add notes and other local data.
Offline access is supported. Internet access is mainly needed for account syncing and other online services.
Google Play currently says Standard Notes does not share data with third parties. It may collect personal information, while Google Play also says data is encrypted during transfer and users can request deletion.
Testing on Android
For a Redmi-style two-day test, the useful daily checks are opening the app, creating notes, scrolling through saved notes, searching, and switching between screens. I would not claim exact battery or temperature numbers without recording them from a real Redmi device during a controlled test.
Public Google Play reviews describe the app as simple and fast for some users, while the current listing shows a 4.6-star rating from thousands of reviews. The Play Store also shows a June 8, 2026 update with fixes related to importing notes.
The app is mainly designed for writing and reading notes, so normal use does not require long periods of heavy screen activity. Exact battery drain and heating can change with the phone model, Android version, number of notes, and sync activity.
Key Functions
- Private Notes: Standard Notes uses end-to-end encryption for notes. This keeps the note content protected while it is stored and synced.
- Offline Access: Downloaded notes can be opened without an internet connection. This is useful when you are travelling or have no mobile data.
- Tags: You can add tags such as work, ideas, or passwords to organize notes. This makes it easier to group notes by topic.
- Multi-Device Sync: Notes can sync between Android, Windows, iOS, Linux, Mac, and web browsers. The free plan does not limit the number of devices.
- Note Protection: The app supports password and fingerprint protection. You can also pin, lock, archive, or move notes to the trash.
Competing Apps
Samsung Notes is a good choice for Samsung users who want a simple note app, while Microsoft OneNote offers more tools for larger notebooks and work or school notes. Standard Notes puts more focus on private, encrypted text and works across many platforms. Its free plan also provides unlimited notes and devices, while some advanced editors and cloud tools require a paid plan.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- End-to-end encrypted notes.
- Unlimited notes on the free plan.
- Unlimited devices.
- Offline access.
- Open-source software.
Cons
- Some advanced editors require a paid plan.
- The app package can be fairly large.
- It may feel too simple for users wanting many formatting tools.
- Full syncing needs an account and internet connection.
Target Audience
Who Should Get This App:
- People who want private notes.
- Users who need the same notes on several devices.
Who Should Skip This App:
- People who only need a basic local notepad.
- Users who want advanced document editing for free.
Key FAQs
Can Standard Notes work offline?
Yes, downloaded notes can be opened without an internet connection. Internet access is needed for syncing between devices.
Is Standard Notes free?
Yes, the free plan includes unlimited notes and unlimited devices. Paid features add extra editors and other tools.
Are Standard Notes notes private?
The developer says notes are protected with end-to-end encryption. Google Play also says data is encrypted during transfer and that no data is shared with third parties.
Offzack Verdict
Standard Notes is a good choice for people who want a simple notes app with strong privacy features. Its free plan, offline access, tags, multi-device syncing, and encrypted notes cover many everyday needs.
Download Standard Notes – App from Google Playstore
Final Scorecard
- Ease of Use: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — The basic note tools are simple and easy to understand.
- Performance: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — The app is built mainly for quick note reading and writing.
- Features: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — It offers offline notes, tags, syncing, protection, and several note types.
- Privacy & Safety: ★★★★★ (5/5) — End-to-end encryption and no third-party data sharing are strong privacy points.
- Value for Money: ★★★★★ (5/5) — The free plan gives unlimited notes and unlimited devices.
- Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — Standard Notes is a solid option for users who want simple notes with a strong privacy focus.