yWriter
A veteran Windows novel organiser that treats scenes, characters, locations, and reports like a database, because it basically is one.
Technical Profile & Specs
verified 2026-08-11
- Cost
- $0 / forever (Free tier / Free tool)
- License
- proprietary, free
- Hosting Model
- Local (on your machine)
- Platforms
- desktopone-click install
- Installation
- Run the Windows EXE installer or portable ZIP; Windows .NET 4.8 or newer is required
- Operational Setup
- The free Windows installer is unsigned and can trigger SmartScreen, and the native macOS/mobile editions are separate paid products
- Where Your Data Lives
- Projects and automatic snapshots stay on the user's computer in yWriter project files such as .yw7; optional FTP or email backup runs only when configured by the user
- The Catch / Trade-off
- Its database-like Windows interface is dated, cross-device sync is manual, and it lacks Dabble's polished web/mobile continuity and modern planning views.
Replaces 3 paid apps
up to $34/mo ($408/yr) in subscriptions
yWriter FAQ
Common questions
Is yWriter free and open source?+
yWriter is a free tool that runs on local. A veteran Windows novel organiser that treats scenes, characters, locations, and reports like a database, because it basically is one.
What paid software does yWriter replace?+
yWriter serves as a free replacement for 3 paid SaaS applications: Dabble, LivingWriter, Novelcrafter, saving up to $34/month ($408/year) in subscription bills.
How do you install and set up yWriter?+
Installation: Run the Windows EXE installer or portable ZIP; Windows .NET 4.8 or newer is required. Setup notes: The free Windows installer is unsigned and can trigger SmartScreen, and the native macOS/mobile editions are separate paid products
What is the catch or trade-off with yWriter?+
Its database-like Windows interface is dated, cross-device sync is manual, and it lacks Dabble's polished web/mobile continuity and modern planning views.