Best Scrivener Alternatives: Top 5 Writing Software Options for Authors
Today, I want to talk about my top five novel writing software choices, focusing on alternatives to Scrivener for writing fiction and non-fiction. I’m ranking these based on user interface, ease of use, and features.
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5. Papyrus Author
Screenshot from Papyrus Author Website
Papyrus Author is number five. It closely resembles Scrivener, so if you’re comfortable with Scrivener’s interface, this might be your best alternative. With both paid and free plans available, the free plan isn’t limited — you can write a full book from start to finish without upgrading. The planning mind map board is a nice bonus, and unlike Scrivener, you won’t need separate software like Scapple for an extra $20.99. The free plan also lets you test things out without plugging in payment information or worrying about a trial period. It’s a solid starting point.
4. Vellum
Screenshot from Vellum Website
Vellum is number four for two main reasons. First, it only works on macOS, leaving out anyone not using a Mac. Second, its price tag is hefty at $249.99 for Vellum Press (Ebook & Print) or $199.99 for Vellum Ebook (Ebook Only). If you’re not into subscriptions, a one-time fee might appeal to you, but if it’s too steep, don’t worry — this is only number four!
Still, Vellum is extremely user-friendly and minimalist in the best way. It makes customizing your book a breeze, and I’ve seen stunning fantasy novels with maps and artwork created in it. One standout feature is generating ebooks formatted for Kobo, Kindle, and other platforms.
That being said, I think the software is extremely user-friendly and easy to use. It’s minimalist in the best way possible, focusing on ease of use without overwhelming you with tabs and settings.
3. Dabble
Screenshot from Dabble Website
At number three, we have Dabble. I used it for a while and loved its co-authoring features, progress tracking with NaNoWriMo integration, and ability to share unique links with editors and beta readers. Plans start at $9/month and go up to $29/month. It’s a nit-picky thing, but I wasn’t thrilled to pay at least $19/month to access ‘dark mode.’ The lifetime pricing at $699 is also outside my budget. While I appreciate Dabble’s tools and user-friendliness, the pricing model just isn’t for me.
2. Atticus
Screenshot from Atticus Website
These last two were pretty hard for me to place. Atticus claims second place and is my favorite tool. Like Vellum, it’s user-friendly but works across all operating systems since it’s browser-based. I’m hoping an integrated app comes soon, as online/offline syncing makes me nervous. I’ve had no issues so far, though. My favorite features include fill-in tabs for the title page, copyright page, and table of contents. You can also export to any book market. At $147 for both ebook and print, it’s much more affordable than Vellum.
1. Reedsy Book Editor
Screenshot from Reedsy Website
Screenshot from Reedsy Book Editor
In first place is Reedsy Book Editor, along with the whole Reedsy platform. The editor is packed with features like version control and planning boards to organize and research your book. Goals and insights keep track of your word count. Fill-in-the-blank copyright and back matter sections let you toggle clauses and auto-format everything. Plus, it’s free! The entire Reedsy platform is a gold mine for writers: find designers, editors, or marketers, get book reviews, attend live chats with pros, and more. Reedsy is a writer’s paradise!
As you can see, each of these five software tools caters to different writing needs and preferences. Whether you’re into Reedsy’s comprehensive platform, Atticus’s flexibility, Dabble’s collaborative spirit, Vellum’s formatting finesse, or Papyrus Author’s cost-effective planning tools, you’re sure to find an option that fits your writing style. Pick the one that works for you, and start crafting your next literary adventure!