Ulysses has earned a loyal following among Apple users who want a clean Markdown environment for articles, books, and blog posts. Its unified library, direct publishing integrations, and distraction-free interface make writing straightforward on macOS and iOS. However, its strict platform lock-in is an immediate deal-breaker for anyone working across Windows, Android, or Linux. If you collaborate with non-Apple users or switch devices during your workday, Ulysses leaves you completely stranded.
Pricing and file storage are two other frequent complaints from long-time users. Ulysses operates on a continuous paid subscription with no one-time purchase or functional free tier. Your files are also stored inside an iCloud-managed database rather than plain, open text files on your local drive. Many writers prefer tools that store raw Markdown directly in their own folders, guaranteeing that their manuscripts stay accessible even without an active subscription or an Apple ID.
Finally, long-form project planning reveals structural limits in Ulysses. While its sheets and groups work well for short essays and chapter drafts, breaking down complex manuscripts or connecting scattered research notes can feel rigid. Writers managing non-linear ideas often outgrow simple folders, looking instead for tools with deep hierarchical outlining, networked note links, or visual whiteboards to shape their drafts.
