JoplinKeep searchable notes, attachments and notebooks locally, with optional encrypted sync.
Free open-source apps · no note-count cap · storage limited by your device or chosen sync provider
Notes, tasks & docs
Logseq
Free optionOpen sourceLocal
Build a linked knowledge base from outlines, daily notes and references.
What you can use it for
Build a linked knowledge base from outlines, daily notes and references.
- Notes are stored as plain Markdown and Org-mode text files directly on your local filesystem.
- Bidirectional page linking with interactive visual graph view.
- Zero vendor lock-in: files remain readable by any text editor forever.
Workflow coverage and comparison notes
Privacy-first, local-first outliner and knowledge base with bidirectional linking and flashcards, eliminating Evernote’s device restrictions and subscription fees. Local-first, privacy-respecting outliner and networked thought platform using plain markdown and Org-mode files without recurring note subscriptions.
Before you switch
Strict outline-based structure (bullets and blocks) rather than freeform word processor canvas. Lacks Evernote’s optical character recognition (OCR) search within scanned handwriting.
Alternatives to these paid apps
Each comparison covers the workflow described above, rather than every paid feature.
More for the same workflow
See alternatives →Joplin
AnytypeOrganise linked notes, documents and collections in a local workspace.
Free desktop and mobile apps with 1GB free encrypted backup node sync.