The best gratitude journal apps, compared
4 min read
There's no single best one; pick by how you like to write. Presently for a free, simple Android app. The Five Minute Journal for a guided routine on paper or in an app. Day One for a full diary. Gratitude: Self-Care Journal for prompts and affirmations. 3gratitudes if you'd rather not install anything and just reply to an email.
At a glance
| Journal | Works on | Price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3gratitudes | Any device with email, and the web | Free; optional Plus | A 2-minute habit with nothing to install |
| Presently | Android | Free, no ads | A simple, free app on Android |
| Five Minute Journal | Paper book, iPhone, Android | Book, or an app subscription | A guided morning and evening routine |
| Day One | iPhone, Android, Mac, web | Free, with paid plans | A full diary with photos, beyond gratitude |
| Gratitude: Self-Care Journal | iPhone, Android | Free, with a paid Pro plan | Prompts, affirmations and vision boards |
Checked October 2026. We make 3gratitudes, so read our pick with that in mind. Prices change often; check each app's store page.
Try it by email, free
One email each evening. Reply with your 3 good things and we keep them in a private journal.
How to choose
- Do you forget to open apps? Pick something that comes to you: a daily email, or a notebook on your pillow.
- Do you like paper? The Five Minute Journal or a plain notebook with our free template.
- Do you want more than gratitude? Day One is a full diary for anything you want to remember.
- Do you want guidance? Gratitude: Self-Care Journal has prompts, affirmations and boards.
What we'd look for
Gratitude journaling works best as a small, steady habit: a few specific good things, at the same moment each day, for weeks rather than days. Streaks and badges can help at first, but many people quit the day the streak breaks. Whatever you pick, make it easy to come back after a missed week.
Questions
Which gratitude journal is best for beginners?
One you'll still use in a month. If you've dropped apps before, try one that comes to you, like a daily email, or keep a paper notebook by your bed.
Do I need an app at all?
No. A notebook works, and so does email. What matters is a fixed moment each day and writing a few specific good things.
Is this list sponsored?
No. We make 3gratitudes, so we're not neutral, but no one paid to be on this list.