The NotebookLM Alternative Built for Studying
Same idea — notes and chat from your own sources — plus the parts NotebookLM leaves out: flashcards, quizzes, and a real iPhone app.
Almanac vs. NotebookLM
| Feature | Almanac | NotebookLM |
|---|---|---|
| Notes & chat from sources (PDF, audio, YouTube, text) | Yes | Yes |
| Native iPhone / iPad app | Yes | Web only, no native iOS app |
| Flashcards from your sources | Yes — one card at a time, tap to flip | No |
| Auto-generated quizzes | Yes — scored, one question at a time | No |
| Audio recording in-app | Yes — record a lecture directly | No — upload only |
| Onboarding required | No — open and start | No — open and start |
| Price | Free tier + Pro at $119.99/yr, $14.99/mo or $2.99/wk | Free (Google account) |
Why students switch
Notes alone don't teach you
NotebookLM stops at notes and Q&A. Almanac turns the same sources into flashcards and quizzes so the material actually sticks before an exam.
Study on the go
A native iPhone app means you can record a lecture, review flashcards on the walk to your next class, and study offline — no browser tab required.
Record right in the app
NotebookLM only accepts uploads. Almanac's iOS app records lectures directly, then transcribes and organizes them automatically.
One card at a time, not a wall of answers
Flashcards come up one by one — tap to flip — and the quiz marks each answer as you go, then scores you and shows what you missed.
Frequently asked questions
Is Almanac really free like NotebookLM?
Yes. The free plan covers your first 3 sources with full notes, chat, and flashcards — no credit card, no signup wall on the tools on this site. Pro ($119.99/year, $14.99/month, or $2.99/week) removes the limit and adds audio overviews and priority AI.
What does Almanac have that NotebookLM doesn't?
Flashcards and quizzes generated automatically from your sources, a native iPhone/iPad app with in-app lecture recording, and 100+ language support. NotebookLM is note-taking and Q&A; Almanac adds the studying layer on top.
Can I import my NotebookLM notebooks?
There's no direct one-click import yet — copy your sources (PDFs, links, text) into a new Almanac notebook and it rebuilds notes, chat, and flashcards from them in seconds.
Does Almanac work on Android?
Almanac is iOS/iPadOS/Mac-first today. The web app at almanacnotebook.com/app works on any device with a browser, including Android and Windows.
Try the study-first alternative
3 sources free, no signup wall on the tools on this site. See the difference on your own lecture or reading in under a minute.