Ulysses is a Markdown-based writing app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone that combines distraction-free writing with powerful organization features. It stores all writing in a unified library with iCloud sync, supports direct publishing to WordPress and Ghost, and offers a polished Apple-native experience. Ulysses targets writers who want Scrivener-like organization with a modern, minimal interface.
Ulysses sits between the power of Scrivener and the simplicity of iA Writer in the Apple writing ecosystem. Its subscription model and Apple-only availability limit its market, but users who commit value its blend of organization, Markdown support, and seamless Apple device sync.
More organizational features with binder, corkboard, and compilation engine. Steeper learning curve but more powerful for complex projects.
Even more minimalist with unique Focus Mode that highlights only the current sentence or paragraph. One-time purchase model and cross-platform support.
Note-taking app with Markdown support and beautiful design. Better for notes and shorter writing; less structured for long-form projects.
Ulysses is built exclusively for Apple platforms with native design and iCloud sync. This Apple-first approach delivers a polished experience but excludes Windows and Android users.
Markdown support enables publishing to multiple formats and platforms from a single source. Direct WordPress publishing appeals to bloggers and content writers who publish regularly.
Ulysses' switch to subscription pricing faced user backlash when it launched. Competing with Scrivener's one-time purchase and iA Writer's purchase model requires ongoing justification of subscription value.
Ulysses competes with Scrivener for long-form writing organization, iA Writer for minimalist Markdown editing, and Bear for note-taking. Its position balances Scrivener's power with iA Writer's simplicity.
No, Ulysses is exclusively available on Apple platforms (Mac, iPad, iPhone). Writers needing cross-platform support should consider iA Writer, which supports Windows and Android as well.
Ulysses' subscription includes all Apple platform apps, iCloud sync, and regular updates. Writers who use it daily across devices often find the value, but casual users may prefer one-time purchase alternatives.