Write!

Write! presents itself as a compelling writing environment for users seeking a balance between functionality and a distraction-free workspace. Upon launching the application, the minimalist interface is immediately apparent. The focus is squarely on the writing area, with toolbars and menus remaining unobtrusive until needed. This design philosophy is at the core of its 'distraction-free' claim and it largely succeeds in creating a conducive environment for focused writing.

The application's Markdown support is a significant advantage for many writers, particularly those involved in web content creation, technical documentation, or anyone who prefers a keyboard-centric workflow. The implementation feels smooth, allowing for quick formatting of text without interrupting the writing flow. While it fully supports Markdown, Write! also offers elements of a WYSIWYG editor, providing a live preview of formatted text, which can be beneficial for visualizing the final output.

Export options within Write! are notably robust. Going beyond simple text or Markdown exports, the ability to directly export to PDF and ePub is a valuable feature for authors and content creators. The mentioned integrations with LibreOffice and potentially Microsoft Office suggest a strong focus on interoperability with existing document workflows, although the effectiveness and scope of these integrations can vary by platform and version.

Cloud synchronization is a standard expectation in modern writing tools, and Write! incorporates this feature to ensure documents are accessible across devices. The added layer of End-to-End Encryption and encrypted notes is a significant plus for users concerned about the security and privacy of their work, particularly when leveraging cloud services. This commitment to privacy helps differentiate Write! in the market.

Organization features like the outliner and visual bookmarks are valuable for managing longer writing projects. The outliner helps structure ideas and sections, while visual bookmarks allow for quick navigation to important parts of a document. Character and word tracking are standard but necessary features efficiently displayed.

Customization options are available, allowing users to tailor the appearance of the interface and utilize custom templates, enhancing the personal writing experience. Support for multiple languages and spell checking are essential functionalities that are well-integrated.

The mention of portability suggests flexibility in how the application can be used, which can be advantageous for users who work on different computers or prefer not to install software. The potential for collaborative workspaces and real-time collaboration, possibly through integrations like Nextcloud, indicates an effort to cater to team-based writing, although the practical implementation and effectiveness of these features may depend on the specific setup.

While the core writing experience is generally excellent, some users accustomed to feature-heavy word processors might initially find the minimalist interface a learning curve. Discovering all available features may require exploring the menus and settings. Consistency in features and integrations across different operating systems and versions should also be considered by potential users.

In summary, Write! is a well-designed writing application that successfully balances a distraction-free environment with a solid set of features. Its strong Markdown support, comprehensive export options, and focus on privacy make it a strong contender for writers of all types. It is particularly well-suited for those who prioritize a clean workspace and efficient formatting.