A Microsoft Sticky Notes alternative that also holds your files
Microsoft Sticky Notes is a free, solid choice for quick text. FloatyNotes is for when your notes also need to include files, images, audio and video that you can drag into other apps.
Windows and Mac. No card required. Then $4.99/month or $39.99/year.
The main differences
| FloatyNotes | Microsoft Sticky Notes | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $4.99/month or $39.99/year after a 7-day trial | Free |
| Stays on top | Yes, one floating panel | Yes, in recent versions |
| Separate note on screen | Not yet. Everything lives in one panel. | Yes |
| Holds any file type | Yes, including PDFs, audio and video | Built around text and screenshots |
| Drag items out into other apps | Yes | Not its main purpose |
| Where your notes live | On your computer only | Syncs with a Microsoft account |
| Syncs across devices | No | Yes |
| Runs on Mac | Yes | No desktop Mac app |
Microsoft's app changes over time, so check its current version before you decide. Last reviewed November 2026.
Choose FloatyNotes if
- You keep moving the same files, images or snippets between apps.
- You want one panel for a project's notes and files.
- You'd rather keep your notes on your own computer than sync them.
- You use both Windows and Mac and want the same kind of tool on each.
Stick with Microsoft Sticky Notes if
- You only need short text reminders.
- You want several separate notes spread around your screen.
- You need your notes on more than one device.
- You don't want to pay for a notes app.
Common questions
Can I import my Microsoft Sticky Notes?
There's no automatic import. You can paste the text of each note into FloatyNotes.
Why does Windows show a warning when I install it?
The Windows installer isn't code-signed yet, so Windows SmartScreen may show an "unknown publisher" warning. To continue, select More info, then Run anyway.
What happens after the 7-day trial?
The app locks until you subscribe. Your notes stay on your computer.
FloatyNotes is made by LeLuxe Tech LLC and isn't affiliated with Microsoft. Microsoft and Sticky Notes are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.