I Tried 6 Open-Source Note-Taking Apps So You Don’t Have To

If you’re like me, your brain is a constant storm of ideas, reminders, and tasks. The right note-taking app can be a lifesaver—but finding “the one” is tricky. Proprietary apps often lock you in or raise privacy concerns. That’s why I dove into the world of open-source note-taking apps and tested six of the most recommended tools.

Instead of you spending hours downloading, syncing, and experimenting, here’s a human-friendly breakdown of what works, what doesn’t, and how to pick the perfect app for your workflow.

Why Choose Open Source?

• Transparency → No black box. The code is visible and auditable.

• Control: Store your notes locally, or sync with your own server.

• Privacy: Many support strong encryption.

• Future-proof → Open code means the community can keep it alive.

In short: open source = freedom for your thoughts.

The Six Contenders

Joplin—The Powerhouse

Joplin is the Swiss Army knife of note-taking. Markdown support, attachments, to-dos, and even a web clipper. Sync with Dropbox, Nextcloud, or your own server.

Best for: Students, researchers, and power users who want offline control and flexibility.

Anytype—The Builder’s Playground

Anytype feels like Notion’s open-source cousin. Instead of notes, you build “objects” and link them into a personal knowledge web.

Best for: Visual thinkers, project managers, and anyone who loves building systems.

Standard Notes—The Privacy Guardian

Minimal and distraction-free, Standard Notes focuses on end-to-end encryption. The free tier is simple, but extensions unlock more editing power.

Best for: Journalers, professionals handling sensitive info, and privacy-first users.

Simplenote—The Quick Jotter

True to its name, Simplenote is all about speed and simplicity. Notes sync instantly, and you can tag them for quick retrieval.

Best for: Writers, students, and anyone who wants to jot ideas fast without clutter.

Notesnook—The Balanced Middle Ground

Notesnook gives you encryption plus richer features like attachments, markdown, and vaults. A nice balance between minimal and feature-heavy.

Best for: Developers, knowledge workers, and anyone who needs structure without complexity.

AFFiNE—The All-in-One Workspace

AFFiNE wants to be your everything app: notes, whiteboards, databases, and planning tools all in one. Think Notion + Miro with an open-source twist.

Best for: Teams, creatives, and startups who want notes and brainstorming in the same place.

Quick At-a-Glance Comparison

My Honest Take

• Joplin is my personal daily driver—flexible, portable, and private.

• Standard Notes wins for peace of mind if you just want a private journal.

• Simplenote is unbeatable for sheer speed and simplicity.

• Anytype and AFFiNE are perfect if you love structure or team brainstorming.

• Notesnook is a comfortable middle ground.

Want the Full Printable Guide?

I turned my research into a print-ready PDF guide complete with:

• Set up checklists for each app

• Syncing & backup tips

• Markdown + printing hacks

• Resource links

Grab your copy here:

I Tried 6 Open-Source Note-Taking Apps So You Don’t Have To (Printable PDF Guide)

No matter which app you pick, going open source means you stay in control of your notes, your privacy, and your workflow. That alone makes the switch worth it.