Evernote for the web gets an update with new Beta design

While there are alternatives, most people fall into one of two categories when it comes to technology-based note taking. It's generally either Evernote, or Microsoft's OneNote. Both work on multiple platforms, both computer and mobile.

Now Evernote is testing a new layout. If you visit the service on the web you may receive a pop-up message inquiring if you wish to try out the new Beta version. You're free to ignore it and stick with what you already know, but you can opt in if you're feeling adventurous.

The new design is quite a departure from the old also, though most users should have no trouble understanding it and getting around.

First, the look is much cleaner and more modern. It differs quite a bit from more cluttered appearance we have grown used to. By default, it also opens to a new note, which differs from the previous model.

There's a nice looking left column that's simple to understand and contains options for new note, search, shortcuts, notes, notebooks, tags, market and settings. That last contains an option to revert from the Beta back to the last version, so if you're not happy don't feel obligated to stick with it -- you can get out.

When Notes is clicked you find the default is now to sort them by date, whereas before it was alphabetical. This can be changed if you so choose. There's a dropdown menu at the top right that lets you choose a sorting method.

Once you enter into an option, you will find the left column narrows to provide you with more space. The words become icons, but hovering over each will tell you what it is and most are pretty self-explanatory.

Conclusion

The new changes seem to improve the user experience and the more modern and less cluttered look certainly is more appealing. However there are always some people who fear change or may, for whatever reason, not like it. Thankfully those folks aren't obligated to stick with it, though it would seem likely that will eventually become the default.