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
Writing & clarity
Zettlr
Free optionOpen sourceLocal
Write and organise Markdown documents, research notes and longer manuscripts.
What you can use it for
Write and organise Markdown documents, research notes and longer manuscripts.
- Work with local Markdown files and multi-file writing projects.
- Includes research-oriented linking and citation workflows on Windows, macOS and Linux.
Workflow coverage and comparison notes
Individual Markdown drafting, linked research notes and organising a multi-file manuscript. No promise of full Scrivener production tools, hosted note sync or proprietary plugin and library parity.
Before you switch
Electron desktop application with its own workspace conventions. Export formats can require Pandoc or a TeX installation. Not Scrivener corkboards and compile presets, Apple-only integrations, Obsidian plugins or an exact Typora editing experience. Sync and backup remain your responsibility.
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
Trilium NotesOrganise a personal wiki with nested notes, links, attachments and searchable reference material.
Free open-source desktop app · no feature paywalls · optional server uses your own resources
SiYuanKeep linked notes and structured personal knowledge in a local workspace.
Free local notes and basic features · sync features are paid