Comparing Novel Writing Software: The Top Three Programs
Novel writing software can transform your ideas and rough draft into a finalized book. Not only will your manuscript grow professionally but also refine your writing skills, giving you a clearer vision and the confidence to complete your novel. There are many choices when it comes to software for writing and editing but Scrivener, Atticus, and Microsoft Word or Google Docs are the top 3 novel writing apps. Let’s cover the ease of use, special features, price points, and writers’ choice in our novel writing software comparison below.
1. The Go-To for Plotters and Researchers
Scrivener is one of the most popular novel writing software tools. Writers love it because it works great for authors who need to manage complex storylines, character arcs, and large research files all in one place. While its extensive features provide great flexibility, it does come with a steeper learning curve compared to simpler word processors.
✅Pros:
- Corkboard & binder system for organization allowing writers to organize their scenes, chapters, and notes visually.
- Great for large manuscripts and research-heavy books with world-building and structuring long-form projects.
- Extensive customization options to allow writers to get the most out of scrivener by tailoring the interface, formatting and workflow to match their work style.
❌Cons:
Steeper learning curve, harder for beginners to pick up and use.
Scrivener is best for writers who…
📖 Love detailed world-building and in-depth plotting.
📝 Prefer structuring and organizing their writing process extensively.
Price Point
💰 $49 for Mac and Windows (one-time purchase).
💰 $19.99 for iOS (separate purchase).
💰 Free 30-day trial available (counts active days of use, not consecutive days).
2. The New Self-Publisher’s Best Friend
Atticus is a newer, all-in-one writing and formatting tool. It combines manuscript creation, formatting, and publishing in one easy-to-use platform. Atticus streamlines the entire self-publishing process, making it a great alternative to tools like Vellum and a huge over-all time saver. It is cloud-based, meaning it works across Mac, Windows, and Chromebooks without any installation.
✅Pros:
- Built-in Book Formatting for publishing with just a few clicks.
- User-Friendly Interface making it easy for beginners to navigate.
- Cloud-Based So you can write anywhere with automatic syncing across devices.
- One-Time Purchase No subscriptions, just a one-time payment for lifetime
❌Cons:
- Lacks Advanced Outlining Tools – Not as feature-rich as Scrivener for plotting and research-heavy projects.
- Still a Newer Tool so there could be some bugs.
Atticus is best for writers who…
📖 Want an all-in-one solution for writing and publishing their books.
📝 Prefer a simple, distraction-free interface with built-in formatting.
📚 Are self-publishing authors who need quick and professional formatting.
Price Point
💰 $147 one-time purchase for lifetime access.
💰 No subscription fees (unlike Adobe or Vellum).
💰 Includes free updates and improvements over time.
3. The Traditionalist’s Choice
Microsoft Word and Google Docs are widely used word processors that many writers rely on for drafting their novels. While they lack the advanced features of Scrivener or Atticus, they offer a familiar, straightforward writing experience with easy accessibility and cloud-saving options.
✅Pros:
- Easy to Use and most writers are already familiar with these programs.
- Widely Available because it is included in most Microsoft Office subscriptions or free with Google Docs.
- Cloud Sync & Collaboration Edit with friends in real-time collaboration and access the cloud on any device.
- Formatting Flexibility Standard text formatting and manuscript drafting.
- Industry Standard Many publishers, editors, and agents prefer receiving manuscripts in Word format.
❌Cons:
- Lacks Advanced Writing Features No built-in outlining, corkboards, or scene organization.
- Not Ideal for Large Manuscripts
- Limited Formatting for Publishing – Requires additional software for proper book formatting (e.g., Vellum, Atticus).
Microsoft Word (or Google Docs) is best for writers who…
📖 Prefer a simple, no-frills writing experience.
📝 Need basic word processing without extra tools.
📚 Want real-time collaboration with co-authors or editors.
Price Point
💰 Microsoft Word: Available with Microsoft 365 ($69.99/year or $6.99/month)
💰 Google Docs: Free with a Google account.
Which One is Best?
Scrivener is amazing for seasoned writers who need organization, heavy plotting integrations, and love to customize their workspace. Atticus will be perfect for any indie writer who is working on their next self-published novel. Word (Google Docs) will be your go to if you are a casual author with simple writing needs. Now that you have a good idea of what each app is good for, where it falls short, if it suits you as a writer, and the budget, pick from the 3 novel writing software applications and get started on the next best seller! We will always be here for when you have that book finished, formatted, and finalized. Start dreaming of your final version today!
