Manuscript
6.7#90 in writing apps$79 one-timemacOSWindows
VisitManuscript vs Substack
What both publish
| Fact | Manuscript | Substack |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | No | Yes |
| Mobile apps | No | Native iOS and Android apps provide reading, subscriptions, push notifications, saved posts and mobile earnings or statistics views. |
| Privacy | The maker says manuscripts are stored as local files on the user's machine, the app works offline, no account is required, and it does not track writing activity. | Substack's privacy policy says it endeavors to protect personal information but cannot guarantee complete security. |
| Purpose | Manuscript is a desktop writing app for novelists that combines a prose editor, story planning, a story bible, and book export. | Substack is a publishing platform for writers, creators, and subscribers. |
Manuscript plans
- Pro trial—
- Pro$79, paid once
Substack plans
- Free publishingFree
- Free to startFree
- Custom domain$50, paid once
- Paid subscriptions—
Pick Manuscript if…
You want what its maker publishes above — check its page for the details.
Pick Substack if…
Substack suits writers, journalists, podcasters, video creators, experts, educators, and media companies building a direct subscriber audience. It is useful for creators who want multiple media formats, audience discovery, segmentation, email automation, and paid subscription options.