Scrivener is a popular writing app, but there are many other great options available. In this article, we will compare Scrivener to some of its top alternatives, so you can decide which one is right for you. We will also introduce WPS Office, a free and convenient writing app that is worth considering.
Part 1: What is Scrivener and Why Use Scrivener Alternative?
Scrivener is a popular word processing and project management software designed primarily for writers, particularly those working on longer and complex documents, such as novels, research papers, screenplays, and dissertations. It was developed by Literature & Latte and is known for its robust organizational tools and features tailored to the writing process.
Features of Scrivener:
Corkboard and Outliner: Scrivener provides a corkboard and outliner view, allowing users to outline and organize their writing project visually.
Document Management: Users can break down their work into smaller, manageable pieces called "scrivenings" and arrange them in a hierarchical structure.
Research Integration: It offers tools for integrating research materials directly into the project, keeping all relevant information in one place.
Distraction-Free Writing: A full-screen composition mode helps writers focus on their content without distractions.
Version Control: Scrivener keeps a history of changes, allowing users to review and revert to previous versions of their work.
Pros
Organizational Power: Scrivener's organization tools make it well-suited for complex writing projects.
Research Integration: The ability to store research materials within the project is convenient.
Customization: Users can tailor the writing environment to their preferences.
Export Options: Scrivener provides various export options for different types of writing.
Distraction-Free Writing: The full-screen mode helps writers stay focused.
Cons
Learning Curve: Scrivener has a steeper learning curve compared to simpler word processors.
No Free Version: Scrivener is not a free software; it requires a one-time purchase.
Windows Version Differences: The Windows version has historically lagged behind the Mac version in terms of features and updates.
Part 2. 5 Best Scrivener Alternatives
1. WPS Writer
Overview:
WPS Writer is a free and open-source word processing software developed by Kingsoft Office. It is a powerful alternative to Microsoft Word, with a wide range of features and supported devices.
Features:
A powerful text editor with a variety of formatting options.
A built-in spell checker and grammar checker.
A variety of templates and wizards to help you create different types of documents.
The ability to collaborate with others on documents.
The ability to save and share documents online.
A variety of export options.
Pros:
Free and open-source
Powerful
Collaborative
Cloud-based
Cons:
Not as polished as some commercial writing apps
Support Devices:
Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Overall, WPS Writer is a great option for users who are looking for a free and open-source word processing software with a wide range of features. It is a powerful tool for creating documents, and it is also collaborative and cloud-based
2. Manuskript
Overview:
Manuskript is a writing app for macOS and iOS that is designed to help writers organize their work. It has a number of features that make it a great option for writers, including:
Pros:
Flexible document structure
Powerful search and replace tool
Built-in dictionary and thesaurus
Variety of export options
Distraction-free writing mode
Cons:
Not as widely used as some other writing apps
Can be complex to learn
Not as feature-rich as some other writing apps
Support Devices:
macOS, iOS
Manuskript is a writing app for macOS and iOS that is designed to help writers organize their work. It features a flexible document structure, a powerful search and replace tool, and a distraction-free writing mode. However, it is only available for these two platforms, so it may not be a good fit for everyone.
3. Google Docs
Overview:
Google Docs is a free, web-based word processing software developed by Google. It is part of the Google Drive suite of productivity apps. Google Docs allows users to create, edit, and collaborate on documents online.
Features:
A powerful text editor with a variety of formatting options.
A built-in spell checker and grammar checker.
The ability to collaborate with others on documents in real time.
The ability to track changes and revisions to documents.
The ability to export documents to a variety of formats.
Pros:
Free
Cloud-based
Collaborative
Easy to use
Secure
Cons:
Not as powerful as some desktop word processing software
Can be slow to load
Can be difficult to use for complex documents
Supported Devices:
Web, Android, iOS
It is a great option for users who need to work on documents with others in real time. However, it may not be as powerful as some desktop word processing software.
4. Microsoft Word
Overview:
Microsoft Word is a word processing software developed by Microsoft. It is one of the most popular word processing software in the world, and it is used by millions of people every day to create documents, letters, reports, and more.
Features:
A powerful text editor with a variety of formatting options.
A built-in spell checker and grammar checker.
A variety of templates and wizards to help you create different types of documents.
The ability to collaborate with others on documents.
The ability to save and share documents online.
Pros:
Widely used
Powerful
Collaborative
Cloud-based
Cons:
Expensive
Can be complex
Not as user-friendly as some alternatives
Support Devices:
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
Microsoft Word is a powerful word processing software that is available for Windows and macOS. It offers a wide range of features, including a built-in spell checker, grammar checker, and templates. However, it is not free, and it can be expensive for individual users.
5. Quoll Writer
Overview:
Quoll Writer is a free and open-source writing app that is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It is a distraction-free writing environment that allows you to focus on your work. Quoll Writer has a number of features that make it a great option for writers, including:
Features:
Flexible document structure: Quoll Writer allows you to organize your work in a variety of ways, using folders, binders, and tags. This makes it easy to keep track of your projects and find the information you need quickly.
Powerful search and replace tool: Quoll Writer's search and replace tool is very powerful. You can search for text, regular expressions, and even hidden text.
Built-in dictionary and thesaurus: Quoll Writer comes with a built-in dictionary and thesaurus, so you can always look up the meaning of a word or find a synonym.
Variety of export options: Quoll Writer can export your work to a variety of formats, including PDF, HTML, and Markdown.
Pros:
Free and open-source
Distraction-free writing environment
Powerful features
Cons:
Not as polished as some commercial writing apps
Lack of cloud sync
A few bugs and the interface can be a bit clunky
Support Devices:
Windows, macOS, Linux
Quoll Writer is a new writing app that is designed to be simple and distraction-free. It is a great option for writers who need to focus on their work. However, it is still under development and does not have as many features as some of the other writing apps on this list.
FAQs
1. How much does scrivener cost?
The Windows and Mac versions both cost $49 (a bit less if you're a student or scholar), while the iOS version costs $19.99. If you want to use Scrivener on both Mac and Windows, you must purchase both, but you will receive a $15 cross-grade discount.
2. Can I use Scrivener on multiple devices?
Yes, you can use Scrivener on multiple devices. You can sync your projects using cloud services like Dropbox to work on them across different computers. Additionally, there is a mobile version of Scrivener available for iOS devices.
Summary
In this 2023 article, we've explored top Scrivener alternatives, with a strong emphasis on WPS Writer. WPS Writer stands out as a collaborative and cloud-based writing solution that can revolutionize your writing process. Its user-friendly interface, robust features, and seamless cloud integration make it a powerful contender.
However, we also discussed other alternatives, such as Manuskript, Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Quoll Writer, to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of your options. Remember that your choice should align with your specific writing needs, but WPS Writer is certainly worth a closer look, especially if collaboration and cloud accessibility are priorities for you.
