Notion is really great. Modular design, databases, cross-page references—features so powerful they're addictive.
But I've noticed an interesting phenomenon around me: quite a few people give up after using it for a while. It's not that the features aren't enough, it's that using it always feels like something is missing.
Missing a bit of warmth.
The gray-white interface, square blocks, emotionless layout... Notion is like a tidy office. Efficient, but after staying there a while, you miss the little plant on the windowsill.
If you feel the same way, congratulations—it's not that there's something wrong with your aesthetic, it's just that Notion's style really isn't for everyone.
The Beauty of Block Editors, Once You Use It You Know
Before talking about alternatives, let's discuss why block editors are addictive.
Traditional note-taking software treats text as text, images as images. Want to add a to-do item? You have to switch to a dedicated function area. Block editors are different—every element is an independent "block." Text is a block, images are a block, tables are blocks, code is also a block.
You can drag these blocks at will, adjust their order. You can insert new blocks before any block. You can use slash commands to quickly bring up various content types. This feeling is like playing with building blocks—very high degree of freedom.
Notion is the pioneer of this concept. But successors can add something different on top of that foundation.
CanJournals: Block Structure + Warm Cute Style
CanJournals has done something interesting: combining the flexibility of block editors with the cute style of journals.
You can still use slash commands to bring up various content blocks. Text, lists, images, dividers—these basics are all there. But the overall visual is warm-toned, with rounded corners, hand-written style decorative elements.
Templates are its highlight. Open the template center, and you'll see page structures designed for different scenarios. For example, the "Evening Diary" template presets areas for today's events, mood index, and tomorrow's plan. For example, the "Weekly Plan" template helps you clearly arrange seven days.
For those new to block editors, this "no need to design from scratch" feeling is very friendly. Open a template and use it, and you'll get familiar as you use it.
iPad users using a stylus can handwrite and doodle directly on blocks. This hybrid approach is an experience that pure text note apps can't provide.
Jinze: Something Minimalist Style Lovers Might Like
If you want a quieter feel, Jinze is a choice worth trying.
The interface goes the minimalist route, with restrained color schemes and neat layouts. It also supports block editing, but the overall tone is more like Notion—strong tool feel, weak decorative feel.
Suitable for that "I'm just here for efficient recording" user. Open the app, write in peace, without distractions.
If You Mainly Use iPad for Notes
There are actually several established note apps on iPad that support basic block operations, even though they're essentially handwriting tools.
GoodNotes and Notability can both insert different types of content blocks. You can place an image next to a handwriting area, or add a text box. They're closer to the concept of "digital paper" than "database-driven note systems."
If you already have an iPad and stylus, you can try these two first. Low cost, quick to get started.
How to Choose?
It all comes down to what you want.
Want warm cute visuals + block editing convenience → CanJournals Want minimalist quiet environment + block editing convenience → Jinze Want ultimate feature depth + can accept cold interface → Notion Want handwriting experience + iPad exclusive → GoodNotes / Notability
Honestly, every tool has its own suitable audience. Notion is great, but not necessarily for everyone. Finding the one that feels comfortable to use is what matters most.
Start recording, it's much more important than choosing the right tool.