Open and type
kayet opens straight to the editor. Create a new document with ⌘N and start writing.
Drafts alternative
The free, open-source Drafts alternative for Mac.
Drafts is built for capturing text and sending it elsewhere with actions. kayet is built for staying with the text: a quiet editor for Markdown files that you write and keep.
kayet vs Drafts at a glance
| kayet | Drafts | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free, no paid tiers | Free, Pro subscription |
| Source code | Open source (Apache 2.0) | Closed source |
| Where your text lives | Plain files in any folder you pick | Its own database, synced with iCloud |
| Platforms | macOS on Apple Silicon | Mac, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch |
| Automation | — | Actions and scripting |
| Markdown preview | Live split pane | Preview |
| Code files | Syntax highlighting | Syntax definitions |
What will feel familiar
Keyboard driven
A command palette with every command and its shortcut.
Markdown aware
Smart lists, emphasis shortcuts and links from pasted URLs.
Where kayet is different
Files, not draftsEvery document is a file in a folder you choose, with a file tree and workspace search.
Long-form friendlyZen mode, a readable column width, HTML / PDF export and presentations.
No subscriptionFree and open source. Every feature included.
Edit code tooSource and config files open with syntax highlighting.
When Drafts is the better choice
kayet does less on purpose. Stay with Drafts if:
- You capture quick notes on iPhone or Apple Watch.
- You process text with actions and send it to other apps and services.
Questions
Is kayet a free alternative to Drafts on Mac?
For writing and editing on the Mac, yes. kayet is free and open source, though it has no automation actions or mobile apps.
Can I open kayet from the terminal?
Yes. Install the kayet command from the app menu, then run kayet notes.md or kayet ..
Start writing.
Free and open source. Requires macOS on Apple Silicon.
Download for Mac
Signed and notarized. Release notes & previous versions.
Other comparisons
iA Writer Typora Ulysses Bear Obsidian Notion Apple Notes Byword Sublime Text BBEdit TextEdit
Drafts is a trademark of its respective owner. kayet is an independent project, not affiliated with or endorsed by the makers of Drafts. The comparison reflects publicly available information as of October 2026 and may change.