Ulysses is a Markdown-based writing environment with a library that organises long projects into sheets, a goal tracker that actually motivates, and export to Word, PDF, and ebook formats that keeps formatting intact. It syncs across Apple devices and gets out of the way while you type.
Who it is for
A nonfiction author or journalist writing long manuscripts on Apple devices.
Key features
- Markdown editor with a project library
- Writing goals and daily streaks
- Exports to Word, PDF, and EPUB
- Sync across Mac, iPad, and iPhone
- Publishing to WordPress and Medium
- No real-time co-authoring
Where it falls short
It is a subscription for what is, fundamentally, a text editor, it is Apple-only, and real-time collaboration with co-authors is not really supported.
Pricing
Subscription only, around $6 a month or $50 a year, covering Mac and iOS; there is no free tier, just a trial, and no Windows version.
Prices move; the tier structure is the part that stays true. Check current pricing on Ulysses.
Alternatives to Ulysses
Frequently asked
How much does Ulysses cost?
Ulysses is paid software. Subscription only, around $6 a month or $50 a year, covering Mac and iOS; there is no free tier, just a trial, and no Windows version.
What is Ulysses best for?
A nonfiction author or journalist writing long manuscripts on Apple devices.
What are the best alternatives to Ulysses?
The closest substitutes we list are Craft and Obsidian. They sit in a similar price bracket but make a different trade-off, so read the weaknesses section of each review before switching.
Which platforms does Ulysses run on?
Ulysses is available on macOS and iOS.