RemNote represents a category of tool that Quizlet never attempted to be: a complete knowledge management system that happens to include spaced repetition. Comparing RemNote to Gridually is therefore also a comparison about what problem you are actually trying to solve.
If the problem is 'I need to review material I already have organized,' Gridually is the simpler, more focused solution. If the problem is 'I need a system that handles everything from initial capture to long-term retention,' RemNote is worth the complexity cost.
RemNote is not a simple tool. Its rem structure, bi-directional linking, document hierarchy, and plugin system require genuine investment to use effectively. Users who have tried RemNote and bounced off it usually cite the same problem: the tool rewards investment but punishes casual use. If you are not ready to commit to learning the system, you will not get much value from it. Gridually is designed to reward immediate use. Open a grid pack, play it, learn. The depth comes from spatial encoding that happens automatically as you study, not from a system you have to build before you can use it.
RemNote supports shared documents and collaborative knowledge bases, which makes it functional for study groups who want to build a shared knowledge repository. Gridually supports shared grid packs that any user can study. The collaborative models are different: RemNote collaborates at the note-taking level while Gridually collaborates at the review level. For study groups that already take notes collaboratively and want to share review material, Gridually's grid packs are a lighter-weight solution that does not require every group member to learn RemNote's system.
RemNote is the right tool for learners who want a unified capture-to-review knowledge system and are ready to invest in learning it. Gridually is the right tool for learners who want effective, spatially organized review without the overhead of a full knowledge management system. Most learners who use RemNote seriously could benefit from Gridually for the active recall phase. Gridually's spatial encoding is based on memory research from the University of Chicago, University of Bonn, and Macquarie University.
RemNote is the better choice if you want your lecture notes and study cards in one place and are willing to invest in learning its system. Gridually is better for the review phase specifically, particularly for subjects where spatial relationships between concepts aid recall.
Gridually does not currently offer PDF annotation. It focuses on the review and retention phase rather than the note-taking and capture phase. The two tools can be complementary: RemNote for capture and organization, Gridually for active recall practice.
RemNote has a free tier with limitations on the number of documents and some advanced features. Its paid tier is priced higher than most flashcard apps because it is a full knowledge management system. Gridually's free tier is more generous for pure review and retention work.