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 |
| Spaced-repetition flashcards | Yes — SM-2 scheduling, same algorithm as Anki | No |
| Auto-generated quizzes | Yes | 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 from $9/mo | 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.
Spaced repetition, not a pile of cards
Cards are scheduled with the SM-2 algorithm — the same one behind Anki — so you review each concept right before you'd forget it.
Frequently asked questions
Is Almanac really free like NotebookLM?
Yes. The free plan includes 3 notebooks with full notes, chat, and flashcards — no credit card, no signup wall on the tools on this site. Pro ($9/month) removes the notebook limit and adds audio overviews and priority AI.
What does Almanac have that NotebookLM doesn't?
Spaced-repetition 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 notebooks free, no signup wall on the tools on this site. See the difference on your own lecture or reading in under a minute.