SideNotes is a quick-access notes app that lives on the side of your screen. Always available, even in full screen. Format text with Markdown (markup stays hidden), make task lists, customize with themes and lots of settings, sync via iCloud.
Hello 👋
I’m Marcin, the maker of SideNotes.
A few days ago I've launched the biggest update since version 1.0. 🎉
Version 1.5 introduces a completely new text editor that hides Markdown syntax from view. Your notes now look clean and readable, while still being Markdown under the hood. You can still type using Markdown, of course — or use the Aa menu.
SideNotes is designed for taking quick notes without losing your workflow. The app lives on the side of your screen (you can choose which side). You can open it by clicking the Open Bar (a small button), using a keyboard shortcut, or simply by moving your mouse to the screen edge.
It’s always available — even in full-screen apps. So whenever a thought, task, or idea pops into your mind, you can quickly jot it down, then hide the app and continue working. Or leave it open — it’s entirely up to you.
The app is highly customizable. It comes with variety of settings. You can even choose a theme or create your own one. It includes automatic backups and optional iCloud sync, so your notes are accessible on iPhone or iPad via SideNotes Mobile (sold separately).
I sell the app as a one-time payment, with upgrades for major versions — just like in the good old days. No subscriptions. Once you buy it, it’s yours.
There is also a 40% discount on the app until August 1 as a part of 14 Years of Apptorium sale.
— Marcin
Sounds fun. But one question : what’s all the fuss about markdown ? Why do I need it ? Why should I bother learning it ?
This looks perfect for side research. Can I link notes to specific files or folders?
SideNotes has such a thoughtful balance between minimalism and power — love how it stays out of the way until you need it. The hidden Markdown feature in 1.5 is a great touch — clean visuals and formatting flexibility. Also really appreciate the one-time purchase model. Congrats on the big update!
Good！very practical. I can record my ideas and comments while reading documents without having to open a note .
Congrats on the big update, Marcin! Hiding Markdown syntax while keeping it editable is such a smart move — makes note-taking cleaner without sacrificing flexibility. Love the always-accessible design too. One-time pricing + iCloud sync? Big win. 👏👏
Any integration, yes, with AI? To decide what to do the first thing next morning for example?
This feels like the kind of app that slips into your workflow without interrupting it. How come the EULA is not copiable though? I wanted to generate a FairPact report for it.
Tried this out and it’s actually really handy. I like how it just stays on the side without getting in the way, even in full screen. The hidden Markdown is a nice touch too — keeps things clean. Plus, the iCloud sync is super useful for switching between devices. Definitely a solid option for quick notes or to-dos.
Congrats on the launch! Side panel notes are exactly what my messy desktop needed. Quick capture without breaking flow is a win.
I have been feeling the need of something like this since a few months now.
SideNotes launched on Product Hunt on July 29th, 2025 and earned 311 upvotes and 33 comments, placing #4 on the daily leaderboard. SideNotes is a quick-access notes app that lives on the side of your screen. Always available, even in full screen. Format text with Markdown (markup stays hidden), make task lists, customize with themes and lots of settings, sync via iCloud.
SideNotes was featured in Mac (103.5k followers), Productivity (649.8k followers) and Notes (8.3k followers) on Product Hunt. Together, these topics include over 138.2k products, making this a competitive space to launch in.
Who hunted SideNotes?
SideNotes was hunted by Marcin Krzywonos. A “hunter” on Product Hunt is the community member who submits a product to the platform — uploading the images, the link, and tagging the makers behind it. Hunters typically write the first comment explaining why a product is worth attention, and their followers are notified the moment they post. Around 79% of featured launches on Product Hunt are self-hunted by their makers, but a well-known hunter still acts as a signal of quality to the rest of the community. See the full all-time top hunters leaderboard to discover who is shaping the Product Hunt ecosystem.
Want to see how SideNotes stacked up against nearby launches in real time? Check out the live launch dashboard for upvote speed charts, proximity comparisons, and more analytics.
Marcin Krzywonos