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The easiest setup is usually the one that’s already built into your devices and syncs automatically. Here are the best low-friction options depending on your ecosystem:

If you use Apple devices

• Apple Notes
  Syncs instantly between iPhone, iPad, and Mac through iCloud.
  Good for:

  • quick notes

  • scanned documents

  • checklists

  • voice notes

  • password-protected notes

  Biggest advantage: zero setup and very reliable if you stay in Apple’s ecosystem.

If you use Android + Windows (or mixed devices)

• Google Keep
  Probably the simplest cross-platform option.

  • instant sync

  • lightweight

  • great search

  • reminders and widgets

  • works in browser too

  Best for fast capture rather than long-form writing.

If you want organized “second brain” notes

• Notion
  Better for:

  • project organization

  • databases

  • wikis

  • study notes

  • collaboration

  Downsides:

  • more setup

  • can feel slower for quick notes

If you want something powerful but still simple

• Obsidian
  Notes are stored as local Markdown files, which many people like for ownership and portability.
  Great for:

  • linking ideas

  • research

  • long-term knowledge management

  But it’s more of a hobbyist/power-user tool.

My practical recommendation by use case

A lot of people end up using a combo:

• quick capture in Keep/Apple Notes

• deeper organization in Notion or Obsidian

If you tell me:

• your phone + laptop combo

• whether you want simple notes or heavy organization

• online-only vs offline support

…I can narrow it down to the cleanest setup for you.