Squid - Take Notes & Markup PDFs

Squid - Take Notes & Markup PDFs is a versatile Android app designed for seamless note-taking and PDF annotation. Ideal for students, professionals, and creatives, it blends intuitive handwriting tools with robust file-editing capabilities. Whether jotting down ideas with a stylus or signing documents, Squid transforms your device into a digital notebook and collaboration hub.  

Key Features and Highlights of Squid - Take Notes & Markup PDFs  

- Handwritten Note-Taking – Squid lets users write naturally with a stylus or finger, mimicking pen-on-paper precision.  

- PDF Annotation & Editing – Highlight, underline, or add text to PDFs directly; Squid supports form-filling and digital signatures.  

- Cloud Integration – Sync notes to Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive, ensuring accessibility across devices.  

- Presentation Mode – Turn Squid into a virtual whiteboard and project notes wirelessly for meetings or lectures.  

- Vector-Based Clarity – Notes remain sharp at any zoom level, thanks to Squid’s vector graphics technology.  

- Export & Share – Save work as PDF/PNG files or share via email, social media, or cloud platforms.  

Advantages  

- Offline Functionality – Squid operates without internet, perfect for on-the-go use.  

- Customizable Templates – Choose from grids, lined paper, or calendars to organize content.  

- Free Core Features – Squid offers essential tools at no cost, unlike subscription-heavy alternatives.  

- Cross-Platform Sync – Access notes seamlessly via Android or web browsers (beta).  

Disadvantages  

- Android-Exclusive – Squid lacks an iOS version, limiting its user base.  

- Limited OCR – Advanced features like text conversion require a paid upgrade.  

- Large PDF Lag – Complex files may load slowly on older devices.  

- Stylus Dependency – While functional with fingers, Squid shines best with a stylus.  

Tips for Using Squid - Take Notes & Markup PDFs  

1. Use a pressure-sensitive stylus for smoother handwriting in Squid.  

2. Organize notes into folders by subject or project for quick retrieval.  

3. Layer diagrams, text, and images for dynamic presentations.  

4. Explore Squid’s “Copy as Text” tool to digitize handwritten notes.  

More Similar Apps  

- Evernote: Cloud-based note organization with OCR, but subscription-focused.  

- Xodo PDF Reader: Strong PDF editing but lacks Squid’s handwriting tools.  

- Noteshelf: Rich customization for iOS/Android, though pricier.  

Conclusion and Personal Opinion  

Squid - Take Notes & Markup PDFs excels as a lightweight, user-friendly tool for tactile learners and PDF power users. Its blend of simplicity (free features) and depth (premium upgrades) makes it a standout in crowded note-taking markets. While the lack of iOS support is a drawback, Squid remains a top choice for Android users seeking a flexible, no-frills productivity app. For students juggling lectures or professionals managing documents, Squid delivers reliability without complexity.