To the left is the modern iteration of OneNote, while to the right lies the version for Windows 10, which is slated for discontinuation this October. Both versions hold the same promise of capturing ideas, much like the notes I took about a delightful ale I recently brewed.
This week, headlines have circulated suggesting that OneNote, the widely embraced note-taking application from Microsoft, is facing closure. However, it’s important to clarify that only a specific variant, known as “OneNote for Windows 10,” is set to be retired.
Understanding the Transition
For users who operate outside the Windows ecosystem, this news bears no significance. If you are a Windows user and your version of OneNote does not display “OneNote for Windows 10” at the top of the window, you can rest easy—this change does not impact you. Conversely, if your version does indicate “OneNote for Windows 10,” you should take note: this application will be discontinued on October 14.
Fortunately, you can transition to the desktop version of OneNote at no cost, with all your notes seamlessly syncing over. The desktop variant offers features that its Windows 10 counterpart lacks; for instance, it allows you to save notebooks offline, eliminating the necessity for a OneDrive account. This shift has been on the horizon for some time, as Microsoft announced this transition years ago.
Despite the clarity surrounding this change, not all users are pleased. OneNote for Windows 10 was designed with mobile devices in mind, and many users still favor it for touch-screen Windows devices. In my own experience testing both versions while updating the OneNote review for PCMag, I found the desktop version to be more comprehensive. However, I can appreciate the appeal of the “for Windows 10” version—it’s streamlined, quick, and meets the needs of many users.
As of now, you can still download OneNote for Windows 10 via the provided link, although Microsoft advises against it. The company plans to implement pop-ups and intentionally slow down syncing speeds to encourage users to switch. Support for this version will cease entirely in October, meaning no further security updates will be provided. Historically, this often leads to a gradual decline in functionality.
If you find yourself using OneNote for Windows 10, it may be time to explore alternative note-taking solutions. I recommend giving the desktop version of OneNote a try first. Should it not meet your expectations, there are other noteworthy applications available, such as Obsidian, which can even import your existing notes from OneNote.
