Xournal++ for PC — Free Download & Install on Windows 10/11

Do you take notes by hand, mark up PDFs, or sketch ideas on a tablet, but hate switching between apps to do it? This xournal++ download for pc guide shows you how to get a free handwriting notepad and PDF annotator on Windows, how to install it on Windows 10 and Windows 11, and how to write your first note. It works with a mouse, a stylus, or a touchscreen, and it costs nothing to use.

What Is Xournal++?

Xournal++ is a free and open-source handwriting note-taking app with PDF annotation support. It lets you write, draw, highlight, and type on blank pages or on top of existing PDF files. Students use it for lecture notes, teachers use it for marking work, and office users use it for signing and commenting on documents.

The app stores notes in its own format, yet it can export everything to PDF at any time. That means your handwritten pages stay editable inside the app, while the exported file can be shared with anyone. Layers, page templates, and pen pressure support make it feel close to writing on real paper, but with undo, zoom, and search-friendly structure.

Key Features of Xournal++

Pen and stylus support: write naturally with pressure sensitivity on tablets and touchscreen laptops.
PDF annotation: open a PDF, highlight text, add handwritten comments, then export the marked file.
Layers and page tools: organise drawings on layers and pick ruled, grid, or dotted page backgrounds.
Shape and text tools: draw neat shapes, add typed text, and insert images into any page.
LaTeX support: add maths formulas to notes, which suits students and researchers.
Custom toolbars: map your favourite pens, colours, and erasers to stylus buttons or shortcuts.
Free and open source: no subscription, no account, and no locked features.

Xournal++ System Requirements for Windows

Operating system: Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64-bit)
Processor: any dual-core CPU or better
RAM: 4 GB or more
Graphics: any graphics card that runs Windows 10 or 11 smoothly
Storage: 250 MB free, plus room for your notebooks
Internet: only needed to download the app

Xournal++ Download for PC: Official Method

Always get the program from the official source so you receive the genuine, untouched software. Follow these steps:

Open your browser and go to the Download Xournal++ from the official website.
On the official site, open the Installation page and choose the Windows build.
Download the Windows installer file for your system.
Save the file to your Downloads folder and wait for it to finish.

Avoid third-party download sites that bundle extra software. The official website above is the only source you need.

The whole xournal++ download for pc process usually takes only a few minutes on a normal broadband connection. Once the file is saved on your computer, you can install it whenever you are ready.

Step-by-Step Installation

Open your Downloads folder and find the Xournal++ installer file.
Double-click the installer to begin the setup wizard.
If Windows shows a security prompt, click Yes to allow the installation to continue.
Accept the licence agreement when the wizard asks you to.
Choose the install folder, or keep the default location.
Click Install and wait for the files to copy across.
Leave Launch Xournal++ ticked, then click Finish.
Open the app and choose a new notebook or open a PDF to test it.

How to Use Xournal++

Start with a blank page and pick the pen tool from the toolbar. Adjust the pen size and colour, then write a few lines to test the pressure response. If you use a stylus, the app should follow your hand naturally and ignore palm touches where supported.

To annotate a PDF, open the file inside Xournal++ and use the highlighter or pen to mark it. Add text boxes for typed comments, draw shapes for emphasis, and save or export the result as a new PDF when you are done.

Why Choose Xournal++?

Many note apps charge a subscription or lock PDF tools behind a paywall. Xournal++ stays free, keeps your files in an open format, and gives you the same core tools on Windows, macOS, and Linux. That makes it a safe choice for students, teachers, and anyone who wants a simple digital notebook without ongoing costs.

FAQs About Xournal++ for PC

Is Xournal++ free for Windows?

Yes, Xournal++ is free and open source for Windows, with no subscription or hidden charges.

Does Xournal++ work on Windows 11?

Yes, it works on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 in 64-bit form.

Can I annotate PDFs in Xournal++?

Yes, you can open PDFs, highlight text, add handwritten notes, and export the annotated file.

Do I need a stylus to use Xournal++?

No, you can use a mouse or touchscreen, but a stylus gives the most natural handwriting experience.

Xournal++ for PC: How to Download & Install on Windows