Best Novel Writing Software: Complete Guide & Comparison for 2025
Choosing a Writing Software
Deciding on a novel writing software can be a difficult choice especially when considering a paid option. There are some great free options simple word processors, but a dedicated novel-writing software may be worth it for the extra features. This guide compares the leading options available to fiction writers in 2025 to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Essential Features for Fiction Writers
What makes specialized novel-writing tools special? They're packed with features that make a writer's life easier. They provide ways to keep your manuscript organized, tools to track your characters and plot (goodbye, sticky notes everywhere!), and systems to save different versions of your work (because we've all accidentally deleted something important). Plus, some come with extras like research folders and flexible ways to export your work. A novel-writing software can streamline the writing process so you focus on what really matters - getting those words on the page.
Premium Software Deep-Dive
Scrivener ($59.99 One-Time Purchase)
Scrivener stands as the veteran in the novel-writing software arena, and for good reason. This tool provides organizational features and flexible writing environments, making it a favorite among professional authors.
If you are a writer that spreads out all your scene ideas on a board or a wall you will love Scrivener’s Corkboard system. It allows you to plot out your novel on a virtual plotting board instead of your actual wall. With Scrivener you can rearrange scene cards at will and get a bird's-eye view of your narrative. It also has a research management system that allows you to store character profiles, setting descriptions, and reference materials directly within your project file.
The writing environment itself is highly customizable. You can choose between a distraction-free mode for focused writing sessions or split screen to reference notes while drafting. The software also supports extensive metadata tagging, helping you track plot threads, character appearances, and timeline elements. All of these features can seriously improve your productivity by making it much easier and faster to reference your notes.
However, Scrivener's learning curve represents its main drawback. New users often need several weeks to learn all of the features but it is worth learning for the level of organization it gives you.
Dabble ($7-29/month)
Dabble has emerged as a strong contender in recent years, offering a more modern, cloud-based approach to novel writing. Dabble provides a Plot Grid system that allows you to map out as much or as little of your book as you would like. It also has a sticky note feature that allows you to note big-picture edits to make it easier to return and revise later. There is a comment feature as well for noting smaller changes and details without muddling up the readability of your manuscript.
Dabble allows you to create character profiles that record character traits, background, and arcs. These profiles give you a quick reference to help keep your characters consistent and their arc on track. There are also goal-tracking features to help you maintain steady progress toward your writing targets. There is even a NaNoWriMo word tracker. The focus mode utilizes typewriter scrolling to keep the words flowing.
The downside is Dabble's monthly subscription model which might deter some users. There are multiple pricing options for basic, standard, and premium plans. Annual subscriptions are 20% cheaper than the monthly subscription. The Standard plan costs $15 a month for the annual plan and provides all the features that I have highlighted here and will be sufficient for the majority of writers.
Microsoft Word ($69.99/year with Microsoft 365)
We are all probably very familiar with Microsoft Word. It is a general word processor, but it gets the job done. Track Changes is an invaluable tool during the editing process and Word remains the publishing industry standard. Many editors and agents will require you to submit your work in Microsoft Word. You can export your manuscript from Scrivener and Dabble to Word if you would prefer to use one of those options for writing and only use Word for submitting work. Personally, I allow the clients I work with to submit with Word or Google Docs.
Free Software Options
Google Docs
Google Docs is free alternative for writers who prioritize collaboration. Its real-time collaboration features exceed even those of Microsoft Word and the cloud-based nature allows your work to be accessible from any device.
It does lack some of the specialized novel-writing features found in the dedicated software options. However, its familiar interface and zero learning curve make it an excellent choice for beginners or writers working on shorter projects. You can export Google Docs to Word for submittals as well.
LibreOffice Writer
This free, open-source is another alternative to Microsoft Word. While LibreOffice Writer may lack some of the more specialized features of dedicated novel-writing software, its familiar interface and reliable performance make it a solid choice for writers on a budget.
FocusWriter
For those who find themselves easily distracted, FocusWriter offers a minimalist writing environment and best of all, it’s free. It has customizable themes and clears your screen of all distractions but you'll need additional tools for organization and editing.
Software Comparison
| Feature/Software | Scrivener | Dabble | MS Word | Google Docs | LibreOffice |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $59.99 one-time | $7-29/month | $69.99/year | Free | Free |
| Platform | Windows/Mac | Web-based | All platforms | Web-based | All platforms |
| Learning Curve | High | Medium | Low | Low | Low |
| Outlining Tools | Advanced | Advanced | Basic | Basic | Basic |
| Character Management | Advanced | Advanced | Limited | Limited | Limited |
| Research Integration | Advanced | Basic | Basic | Basic | Basic |
| Collaboration | Limited | Basic | Advanced | Advanced | Limited |
| Offline Access | Yes | Limited | Yes | Limited | Yes |
| Export Options | Extensive | Basic | Standard | Basic | Standard |
| Auto Backup | Yes | Yes (cloud) | Yes (cloud) | Yes (Cloud) | Manual |
| Distraction Free Mode | Yes | Yes | Limited | Limited | Yes |
Plotters vs. Pantsers: Software Recommendations
For Plotters
Plotters, who meticulously plan their novels before writing, will likely find the most value in:
Scrivener
Outline management
Detailed character and setting sheets
Corkboard view for scene planning
Custom metadata for tracking plot elements
Research management capabilities
Dabble
Plot Grid feature for story structure
Character arc tracking
Scene outlining tools
Goal setting and progress tracking
For Pantsers
Writers who discover their story while writing ("writing by the seat of their pants") might prefer:
Google Docs
Simple, distraction-free interface
Minimal setup required
Easy to reorganize content later
Quick access to start writing immediately
FocusWriter
Minimalist interface
Focus on the writing process
Fewer planning tools to get in the way
Quick startup time
Choosing the Right Software
Consider these factors when choosing the right software for you:
Budget: Balance one-time purchases against subscription costs
Learning curve: Consider how much time you can invest in learning new software
Feature requirements: Identify must-have features versus nice-to-have options
Platform compatibility: Ensure the software works on your preferred devices
Backup solutions: Evaluate the backup and recovery options available
Recommendations
Best Overall: Scrivener
Despite its learning curve, Scrivener offers the most comprehensive feature set. Its one-time purchase model is the best option for career novelists.
Best for Beginners: Google Docs
The familiar interface and collaborative features make Google Docs an ideal starting point for new writers. Its zero cost and minimal learning curve allow you to focus on developing your craft.
Best for Professional Use: Microsoft Word
For writers working with traditional publishers, Microsoft Word remains the industry standard. Its universal compatibility and change tracking features allow for smooth collaboration with editors and publishing houses.
Best Cloud-Based Solution: Dabble
Dabble is intuitive to use and offers a lot of the features that make Scrivener so popular. Its Plot Grid system particularly shines for complex plots.
Conclusion
The best novel writing software for you depends entirely on your specific needs, working style, and budget. Remember to make use of free trials when available! At the time of writing this article, Dabble offers a 14-day free trial and Scrivener offers a 30-day free trial. If you are new to book writing, I would advise starting with simpler tools. As your needs evolve, you can graduate to more sophisticated software that works with your writing process.
Remember, these tools should enhance, not hinder, your creative process. Don’t feel pressured to get a software with all the special features. Some writers thrive with highly organized systems and others are overwhelmed by all these tools. Choose software that feels natural to use and supports rather than complicates your writing journey.
The Scrivener and Dabble links are affiliate links. If you purchase through those links I will receive a small commission.