25 Best Free Offline Writing Apps to Enhance Your Productivity

Buddy, it’s sweet that you just haven’t forgotten how powerful “offline” writing apps can be!

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 25 best free offline writing apps for every writer.

Whether you are taking notes in a cabin, trying to avoid distractions, or drafting your next story, you’ll find the perfect match.

As technology improves, more and more apps are being designed to help writers:

Save battery
Focus more
And keep writing even when there is no Wi-Fi

Indeed, we’ve got you the best free offline writing apps you can find on the internet.

The Best Free Offline Writing Apps For Writers

Here are the best free offline writing apps tailored for professional writers looking for reliable tools that function without the Internet:

1. LibreOffice Writer

LibreOffice Writer is an impressive word processor that rivals Microsoft Word, a giant in the industry.

It supports tables, complex formatting, templates, bibliographies, mail merges, and more.

That way, it makes an excellent pick for writing from full-length books to short reports.

Platforms: Linux, MacOS, and Windows
Offline capability: It functions fully without an internet connection. Documents are saved locally, and all features are available offline.
Perfect for: Professional writers desiring an offline tool with advanced editing, formatting, and publishing features.

2. Zoho Writer

Zoho Writer offers a more refined offline mode for writers who set it up as a mobile app or browser.

It greatly supports collaboration, rich formatting, and document sharing.

Interestingly, all these can synchronize seamlessly when you’re back online.

Platforms: Web, iOS, and Android
Offline capability: Yes, you can access this after initial setup. You can save documents, edit them, and queue them for syncing later.
Perfect for: Writers who require cloud access but want to work offline during power outages or while traveling.

3. FocusWriter

This is appearing on our list of the best free offline writing apps.

FocusWriter excels as a minimalist writing environment designed to eliminate distractions and help you maintain your flow.

It comes with features such as session goals, autosave, a hide-away interface, and live statistics. All of it focused on simplicity.

Platforms: Linux, windows, and macOS.
Offline capability: You’ll get 100% offline functionality. No internet connection is required.
Ideal for: Novelists, authors, and screenwriters who want to focus purely on writing.

4. Typora

This offline writing app is a sleek Markdown editor that merges syntax with real-time rendering, presenting writers with a What-You-See-Is-What-You-Get editing experience.

Its support for diagrams, code blocks, tables, and LaTeX makes it excellent for both technical and creative writing.

Platforms: MacOS, Windows, and Linux
Offline capability: It’s completely offline. All its features can be accessed without an internet connection.
Perfect for: Writers and developers who utilize Markdown and require elegant formatting and export options in an offline setting.

Also Check: 29 Best Free Writing Software (With Quick Review)

5. Obsidian

This writing tool is more than a text editor.

Notes on this writing app are stored as Markdown files on the device, protecting your privacy and offering offline access.

Platforms: Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android
Offline capability: It’s fully offline. Files are saved locally, and you can access all the features without the internet.
Perfect for: Authors, researchers, and content creators requiring deep linking between notes, ideas, and drafts.

6. Joplin

Joplin offers tags, notebooks, and search tools for organizing large volumes of text.

Joplin can also function in a full-scale writing setting.

Platforms: MacOS, Windows, iOS, Linux, and Android.
Offline capability: Yes, all features work offline, with optional syncing to connect with services like One Drive or Dropbox.
Perfect for: Writers who handle extensive notes or manage several writing projects.

7. Zettlr

We’ve known Zettlr to be a powerful open-source Markdown editor that’s tailored for both long-form, scientific, and academic writers.

It offers a tabbed interface, supports citation management, and features a built-in file manager to help writers navigate large projects.

Platforms: MacOS, Windows, and Linux
Offline capability: It fully functions offline. All files are stored locally and do not require an internet connection for editing, writing, or organizing documents.
Perfect for: Researchers, academic writers, and nonfiction authors requiring reference management, spell-checking, and export-ready formatting tools without depending on cloud access.

8. Manuskript

This dedicated tool features an intuitive outlining system, as well as tools for plot and character development.

It also comes with a corkboard and a distraction-free writing mode.

Manuskript is open-source and designed to manage large writing projects.

Platforms: Linux, Windows, and macOS
Offline capability: It works 100% offline. You can save project files on your computer, allowing for private and uninterrupted writing.
Perfect for: Screenwriters, storytellers, and novelists who desire robust project structuring tools for character arcs, world-building, and narrative design while not needing to be online.

9. Simplenote

Simplenote is a clean, no-frills note-taking writing app that supports synchronization across devices, tagging, and version history.

Though designed with simplicity in mind, it’s perfect for writers who capture thoughts on the go.

Platforms: iOS, Windows, Android, macOS, and Linux.
Offline capability: It works offline the moment the notes and app are downloaded. Notes are editable and accessible without sync and internet and sync immediately when you are connected to the internet.
Perfect for: Writers who write drafts, jot down ideas, or outlines on several devices and desire those notes to be accessible offline when they travel, go for meetings, or when there is downtime.

10. Bear

This beautifully designed Markdown-based note-taking and writing app is exclusive to Apple users!

It offers impressive organizational features, including advanced search, nested tags, and several export options, such as Word and PDF.

Platforms: iOS and macOS
Offline capability: Full offline capability. All notes are stored locally and would be accessible and editable even when there is no internet connection.
Perfect for: iPhone and Mac writers who appreciate Markdown support, elegant design, and quick access to short-form writing and notes, whether offline or online.

11. iA Writer

This minimalist writing app is designed for focus and clarity.

It features a distraction-free writing space and seamless expertise in Word, HTML, and PDF.

Platforms: iOS, Windows, macOS.
Offline capability: Completely functional offline. Documents are stored locally and are edited when there is no internet access.
Perfect for: Journalists, writers, and bloggers who desire a clean interface with innovative editing features that function offline—perfect distraction-free writing and for writing retreats.

12. Q10

Q10, an offline writing app, removes all distractions.

It includes a timer, word count tracker, timer, typing sound effects, and spell checker—making it a favorite for writers requiring a digital typewriter feel.

Platforms: Windows
Offline Capability: Operates fully offline. It doesn’t demand any login or any installation of internet components.
Perfect for: Writers who want to boost productivity in a minimalist, focused environment. It is also great for writers who desire a nostalgic streak.

13. Ghostwriter

While Ghostwriter is a distraction-free Markdown editor, it’s designed to function offline and designed with an elegant and modern interface.

It offers session statistics, a live preview, a Hemingway Mode, and several themes for eye comfort.

Platforms: Linux and Windows
Offline capability: All features are accessible offline. Files are saved locally, and it has no cloud dependence.
Perfect for: Writers who utilize Markdown and desire live preview and a slick user interface while staying offline.

14. RedNotebook

RedNotebook is one of the excellent journaling apps that doubles as a digital writing app.

It comes with calendar-based navigation, tag cloud support, export options, and rich-text formatting.

RedNotebook auto-saves entries and is capable of generating templates.

Platforms: Linux, Windows
Offline capability: It is entirely offline-capable. All journal entries are saved locally.
Perfect for: Writers who maintain daily reflections, personal logs, journaling, and writing practices—especially in places without Wi-Fi.

15. Turtl

This is a secure, open-source note and task management application that comes with end-to-end encryption.

Turtl supports image attachment, Markdown, and tagging.

Turtl is well-suited for storing outlines, research, or completing writing projects securely.

Platforms: Windows, MacOS, Link, and Android, Windows.
Offline capability: It works offline the moment you are logged in. Notes and changes are saved locally and synchronized later if desired.
Perfect for: Journalists, privacy-focused writers, or journalists.

16. Atom

Atom supports a wide range of themes, plugins, and packages that allow users to tailor the writing environment to their specific needs.

It comes with version control, grammar checks, and support for Markdown.

Platforms: Linux, Windows, and macOS
Offline capability: Once installed, writers can write, edit, proofread, and manage documents offline without needing the internet.
Perfect for: Developers, technical writers, writers who desire open-source tools that function as coding tools and writing tools, writers who love customization, and developers.

Note: While Atom has stopped receiving updates, you can still use it. Just that it might not be fully secured.

17. Vim

We regard Vim as a legendary, keyboard-driven text editor.

It is used widely in minimalist and programming writing.

Vim is known for its steep learning curve, for it offers matchless control and speed for experienced users.

Platforms: Linux, macOS, and Windows
Offline capability: It is completely offline. All editing modes, functions, and file stores are local.
Perfect for: Developers, advanced users, or writers comfortable with command-line tools. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a lightweight, distraction-free writing tool with fast responsiveness.

18. Gedit

Likely your first time learning about these apps.

Gedit is recognized as the default text editor for GNOME desktop on Linux.

It offers auto-indentation, syntax highlighting, and a smooth and clean interface with basic plugins.

Platforms: Linux, Windows/macOS—but unofficially
Offline capability: It is entirely offline. Interestingly, it runs natively and stores all documents locally.
Perfect for: Linux-based writers or coders. It is also great for those who prefer a simple, distraction-free editor for Markdown, plain text, or even code documentation.

19. WPS Office Writer

WPS Office Writer is an impressive feature-rich word processor that copies Microsoft Word’s feel and look.

It supports PDF, DOCX, export, templates, tables, and more—great for new and professional writers who operate in traditional publishing formats.

Platforms: MacOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Offline capability: Once installed, it’s fully usable offline. The mobile version is also free to use offline, with limited cloud synchronization.
Perfect for: Writers familiar with Microsoft Word. It’s also ideal for writers who want a free, offline-capable alternative for offering polished, professional documents.

20. TextMaker (FreeOffice)

Text Maker is part of the FreeOffice suite designed by Soft Maker.

This free, offline app provides Microsoft Word-compatible layout options, an intuitive interface, and export formats, including EPUB and PDF.

Platforms: macOS, windows, and Linux
Offline capability: It operates 100% offline. No internet connection is required, and no login is needed once you’ve installed it.
Perfect for: Writers desiring a powerful alternative to Microsoft Word that doesn’t need an internet connection to function and is lightweight.

21. Atlantis Word Processor (Free Version)

Atlantis is an incredibly Windows-only word processor that is focused on portability, speed, and a distraction-free interface.

It comes packed with customizable themes, text-to-speech, and smart file backup.

Platforms: Windows
Offline capability: It is fully functional offline and doesn’t need account creation and cloud services.
Perfect for: Essays, writers working on novels, or blogs needing a fast, compact alternative.

22. RoughDraft

No doubt this is an older yet beloved word processor.

Developers designed it with script and fiction writers in mind.

It supports chapter management, scene, and script formatting, and multiple file tabs.

Platforms: Windows
Offline capability: It works entirely offline. Files are stored locally, and no updates or accounts are required.
Perfect for: Novelists, and creative writers searching for a retro, purpose-built tool to manage and organize significant narrative works.

23. Calmly Writer

We often regard this as “calm” because it deserves that nickname.

Calmly Writer offers a minimalist, serene writing environment.

It comes with features like focus mode, export to various formats, and word count tracking. This offline app emphasizes flow and clarity.

Platforms: Chrome App, and Web app.
Offline capability: The Chrome app offers complete offline functionality, allowing users to save, edit, and export content even without an internet connection.
Perfect for: Writers who focus on simplicity and concentration—ideal for drafting essays, articles, or journaling.

24. Notepad++

Notepad++ is a powerful open-source text editor that features syntax highlighting, a tabbed interface, a minimalist design, and macro support.

Though primarily utilized by developers, it’s also perfect for writers who prefer Markdown or plain text and requires fast, distraction-free functionality.

Platforms: Windows
Offline capability: Fully functional offline. It requires no internet connection for saving documents and writing.
Perfect for: Writers who are keen on simplicity, speed, and custom workflows—this is especially perfect for writing code documentation, drafts with no formatting clutter, and scripts.

25. WriteMonkey

This full-screen, distraction-free writing environment is designed for serious writers.

It includes word count goals, markdown support, file organization features, and timed sessions—all in a lightweight footprint.

Platforms: Windows, and portable Java
Offline capability: It is fully functional offline; all data is saved locally.
Perfect for: Bloggers, authors, and screenwriters who desire a zen-like powerful editing and workspace tool without any online bloat or noise.

Reasons to Opt-in for The Best Free Offline Writing Apps?

Here are some reasons you should pick from the best free offline writing apps:

If you are without the internet? No problem. Just Write from anywhere, anytime.
Enhances focus. It reduces online distractions, such as emails or social media.
Save battery. With offline apps, you will be able to use less energy than browser-based tools.
Free forever. Most of the apps highlighted here are completely free and come with no hidden costs.

Final Thoughts

The Exquisite Writer wants to help you keep your creativity flowing when writing your project.

So, even if you’re off the grid or managing your battery, you’ll get the best free offline writing app in this list.

Therefore, we encourage you to choose the one that suits your device and style and let the words flow.

Trust us, all the tools listed here can be utilized offline, making them ideal for bloggers, professional writers, novelists, and those working without an internet connection.