GoodNotes 5 for macOS supports almost all features from the GoodNotes 5 iOS version. You can refer to Getting started with GoodNotes 5.
Some features might be missing because they're currently not relevant on macOS, for example, the Zoom window tool.
To get GoodNotes 5 on your Mac, you will have needed to have purchased the full version of GoodNotes 5 when it was available. If you had, then you will be able to download Goodnotes 6 from the App Store and downgrade your version to GoodNotes 5, so long as the app recognises a valid purchase in the Apple ID purchase history for GoodNotes 5.
- Tap the ⚙️ icon in the top-right corner of the Library view > Settings > Downgrade.
- Disable "Run Goodnotes in Version 6." The app will exit.
- Relaunch the app.
FAQ
I see that GoodNotes for macOS requires at least macOS 12.3 (Monterey). For various reasons, I can't or don't want to update my Mac system software. Is there a GoodNotes version for macOS Mojave, Sierra, Catalina, or lower?
Sadly, the new framework for universal apps only works on at least macOS Monterey. That's a trade-off for making the app universal. Unfortunately, there isn't a way to download an earlier GoodNotes version for an older macOS version.
How do I select PDF text?
Please enter read-only mode first by clicking the middle icon in the top-right corner. Then you can drag to select text.
How do I follow hyperlinks in an imported PDF?
Please enter read-only mode first by clicking the middle icon in the top-right corner. Then you can click on a hyperlink, or click-and-hold the link and choose Open Link.
Why can't I import PowerPoint or Word documents?
Unfortunately, importing PowerPoint and Word documents isn't yet supported in GoodNotes for macOS.
Why is the Zoom window feature not available like in the iOS version?
The Zoom window is designed for writing neatly on the glass surface, especially with a big finger or stylus tip. That said, with the growing popularity of drawing tablets that you can connect to your Mac, we might be able to support this feature in the future.
Can I use a drawing tablet with GoodNotes for macOS?
You certainly can, but sadly the performance isn't that great, and we're looking to improve this. The note-taking experience on an iPad will be much smoother.