August 14, 2025
I have been working to drift away from using Google products recently, and one of those, of course, is Google Docs. Google Docs is what I would often use to write all sorts of things! I would write fanfictions, I would write about my OCs, I would make timelines, etc. I am not replacing it because it wasn't useful, but I am replacing it because I would simply rather use a program that feels more private! I admittedly am not very intelligent in regards to technology or websites, but I think it is fair for me to want something more private.
I have tried 3 alternatives to Google Docs!
Obsidian is a program you actually download to your computer, which means it can be used offline! While I know I said these are Google Docs alternatives, I feel this one is more comparable to a notes app one would find on a cell phone.
However, while I find the UI vaguely similar to a notes app, you must know that there are other fun things you can do that a cell phone notes app cannot!
On Obsidian, you can also link notes together, which can then be shown on some sort of organizer! There is also an option to make a "canvas," which also includes organizational features!!!
If you love to organize information, or want to make a detailed timeline, I think out of the three Obsidian would be a great option for that!
Onlyoffice is actually not only for writing, but also provides software for making powerpoints and sheets. All of what onlyoffice offers seems moreso intended to be an alternative to Microsoft products- given that they all look almost identical to the Microsoft office counterparts. While I find the Microsoft UI of them a bit boring and difficult to work with at times, it is nice to have a free alternative to the tools used in Microsoft office. Maybe one day I will make a glorious powerpoint.
I am actually writing this on Ellipsus! It is probably my favorite of the three. Ellipsus has my personal favorite UI out of the three! It is very easy to use, and very convenient as well! You can even copy what you are writing as HTML?!
This one feels like it was made especially for writers and authors! It has a word count at the top, a writing timer, and formatting options which are easy to access. It also allows you to easily have multiple drafts of your work!
I hope to use Ellipsus in the future for writing my stories, as I am already in love with writing in it!
Trying out different places for writing has been quite enjoyable for me, as I have found I really enjoy typing and exploring new options! If anybody else has any other places you write, feel free to share! Thanks for reading!