Glasp vs. Matter: Which Highlighter App Should You Use?

Glasp vs. Matter: Which Highlighter App Should You Use?

When it comes to highlighting web articles and PDF files, two popular apps come to mind: Glasp and Matter. Both apps offer unique features and functionalities that cater to different needs. In this article, we will compare Glasp and Matter to help you decide which highlighter app is best suited for you.

Glasp is known for its ability to preserve the original formatting of web articles while allowing users to highlight on the spot. Unlike other apps that use a reader view, Glasp ensures that the article's layout and design remain intact. Additionally, Glasp also supports highlighting PDF files from the web and even YouTube transcripts, making it a versatile tool for content consumption.

One standout feature of Glasp is its integration with Kindle. Users can easily import their highlights and notes from Kindle Cloud Reader, either for an entire book or selected highlights. This seamless integration makes it convenient for avid Kindle readers to consolidate their highlights in one place.

Exporting highlights and notes is also a breeze with Glasp. Users have the option to export them individually or in batches, and the app supports various file formats such as .txt, .csv, .html, .md, and .png. This flexibility allows users to transfer their highlights to other platforms or share them with colleagues and friends.

On the other hand, Matter offers a different set of features that might appeal to a different audience. One notable advantage of Matter is its ability to sync highlights and notes directly to popular apps like Roam, Obsidian, Notion, and Readwise. This integration allows users to seamlessly transfer their insights to their preferred note-taking or knowledge management tools.

Furthermore, Matter takes a community-focused approach to highlighter apps. All highlights and notes made on Matter are public, encouraging users to share what they learn and engage with like-minded individuals. This social component adds a collaborative element to the app, enabling users to gain insights from others and discover interesting content.

A unique feature exclusive to Glasp is the ability to pile-on highlights. This feature allows users to receive notifications whenever someone else highlights the same web content that they have read and highlighted. This creates a sense of community and shared learning, as users can see what others find valuable and build upon each other's insights.

In terms of use case, Glasp can be seen as a temporary area between content discovery and a permanent place for storing highlights. It serves as a content management workflow tool, allowing users to organize and manage their highlights before transferring them to their preferred note-taking apps or platforms. If you prefer a social component to your highlighting experience and enjoy sharing insights with others, Glasp is a great option.

On the other hand, Matter caters to those who prioritize seamless integration with their existing productivity tools. If you heavily rely on apps like Roam, Obsidian, Notion, or Readwise for your note-taking and knowledge management, Matter offers a convenient way to sync your highlights and notes directly to these applications.

In conclusion, both Glasp and Matter have their own strengths and unique features that make them valuable highlighter apps. To help you make a decision, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Consider your workflow and preferred note-taking tools: If you already have a preferred note-taking or knowledge management platform, check if it integrates with either Glasp or Matter. This will ensure a seamless transfer of your highlights and notes.

• 2. Assess your need for a social component: If you enjoy engaging with a community and sharing insights with others, Glasp's community-focused approach might be the right fit for you. On the other hand, if social interactions are not a priority, Matter's emphasis on seamless integration might be more appealing.

• 3. Evaluate the types of content you frequently highlight: Consider whether you primarily highlight web articles or also work with PDF files, YouTube transcripts, or Kindle books. Glasp offers a wider range of content compatibility, while Matter might be more focused on web articles and syncing to productivity apps.

Ultimately, the choice between Glasp and Matter depends on your personal preferences, workflow, and the specific features that align with your needs. Take the time to explore both apps and consider how they fit into your content consumption and note-taking routine.