Sticky notes apps for Windows 11, compared
Most sticky notes apps float notes on the desktop. A few can attach a note to a program, so it appears only when that program is in front. This page compares the main options, including the cases where ContextNotes isn't the right choice.
ContextNotes isn't on sale yet
ContextNotes is in development for Windows 11. Purchases aren't open, so you can't buy it today. The browser demo shows how it works with sample notes.
At a glance
| App | Cost | Attaches notes to programs | Sync |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Sticky Notes | Free, built into Windows | No attachment feature found in its documentation | Yes, with a Microsoft account |
| Stickies (Zhorn Software) | Free | Yes, to windows or applications | Not covered in this comparison; check its current features |
| Stick A Note | Free | Yes, by window title | No; notes are saved as text files on your PC |
| Notezilla | Paid; check its website for current pricing | Check its documentation for current features | Yes, with its paid sync options |
| ContextNotes | US$4.99, one-time (not on sale yet) | Yes, matched by program | No; notes stay on your PC |
Based on public listings and vendor support pages checked in October 2026. Prices and features change, so check each vendor's site before you decide.
The apps
Microsoft Sticky Notes
Built into Windows and free. Signing in with a Microsoft account syncs your notes across apps and devices, according to Microsoft's support pages. Sync depends on your account type, and some work or school accounts may not sync, so check Microsoft's current sync requirements if that matters to you.
Choose it if you want free notes that sync across your devices with a Microsoft account.
Stickies by Zhorn Software
A free, lightweight sticky notes utility. It can attach a note to a window or application, so the note shows when that program is running. Deleted notes can be restored from its Manage tool.
Choose it if you want a free app with attachments and don't need a rail or a notes manager.
Stick A Note
A small free app that attaches a note to a program or document window, using the Win+N shortcut. Attachments are matched by window title. When a program changes its title, for example while you type in the search box of Everything, its notes stop showing until the title changes back. Notes are saved as text files in the app's own folder.
Choose it if you want a tiny free tool and don't mind notes depending on window titles.
Notezilla
An established paid sticky notes app with sync and mobile apps. We couldn't confirm its current price or every feature, so check its website before you buy.
Choose it if you need sync and mobile apps today.
ContextNotes
Notes appear as tabs on a slim rail at the edge of the screen, so they stay out of your way. Each note is either attached to a program, such as VS Code or Chrome, or shown everywhere. Attachments follow the program rather than the window title, so they keep working when a file or tab changes. Notes are stored only on your PC, with no account, no cloud sync and no telemetry.
ContextNotes is for Windows 11 (64-bit) only. It has no sync, mobile app or AI features, and notes can't be attached to a single window or browser tab in version 1.
Choose it if you want notes that follow the program you're using, with no account, and you use a single Windows 11 PC.
Which one to choose
- You need notes to sync between PCs or phones: Microsoft Sticky Notes or Notezilla.
- You want something free today: Stickies or Stick A Note.
- You want notes to follow the program you're using, with no account: ContextNotes, once it's on sale.
- You're on Windows 10, macOS, Linux, or mobile: ContextNotes doesn't run on those platforms.
Related
- ContextNotes pricing: US$4.99, one-time, with the license details
- Frequently asked questions
- Support