Google Keep
Who makes it? Google.
Strengths: The interface is nicely designed with big "cards" for each task (or note) which can be tweaked to make them stand out. Notes can be rearranged by importance and the search feature is comprehensive.
Weaknesses: The app is tied to your Google account which means if you use another service, such as Outlook, it won't be for you.
Apple Notes
Who makes it? Apple.
Strengths: The app is simple, clean, and works offline. Apple updated Notes on Mac earlier this year, introducing a syncing feature that keeps everything together. There is also support for Notes from multiple accounts, including Yahoo, Google, and iCloud.
Weaknesses: The app is iPhone-only and doesn't offer reminders (although Apple's Reminders app does).
Price: Preinstalled on iPhones.
Any.do
Who makes it? Any.do.
Strengths: The app is nicely designed, with a clear interface that resembles a lot of Google's design thinking. Panels fade in and out with a sliding animation, for example. Syncing is available across devices.
Weaknesses: Not all of the app's features are available for free and the app offered an annoying "What are you up to today?" notification every morning.
Wunderlist
Who makes it? Microsoft.
Strengths: The app is functional and well designed with basically no frills. Everything is clear and the syncing between devices works well.
Weaknesses: The app's design is functional but nowhere near as pretty as Any.do. The Premium option (which costs £39.99 a year) does have a larger collection of background options.
Todoist
Who makes it? Ist Productivity.
Strengths: The app is lightweight and functional with a clear view of the tasks that need to be done. There is also a view to break down tasks into those that need to be done today and over the next seven days.
Weaknesses: Many of the features — such as the ability to label tasks — are only available in the Premium version of the app, which costs £21.99 per year. I often found that a feature I wanted to use wasn't available, creating an annoying experience.
