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Joplin

Open-source notes with sync through whichever service you choose.

Instead of Evernote, OneNote, Google Keep

M · ToolOpen sourceFreeWorks offlineSelf-hostable
joplinapp.org
Screenshot of the Joplin website

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Most people have moved their notes from one app to another at least once, usually by copying and pasting and losing something on the way. Joplin was started by Laurent Cozic and keeps your notes as Markdown with attachments, and it runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS. You decide where they sync: Nextcloud, Dropbox, any WebDAV server or the paid Joplin Cloud at a few euros a month. End-to-end encryption is available, and you can read the whole source.

Joplin scores a 5 on lock-in, power and longevity, a 4 on footprint and delivery and a 3 on self-direction.

Nothing is hidden from you, and the cost is some setup work. Encryption is off until you turn it on, and the app is plainer and less polished than the commercial ones.

It is a notes app you can still open in ten years, with your notes sitting in plain Markdown wherever you decided to keep them.

    What stands out

  • Notes saved as Markdown with attachments
  • You choose where they sync: Nextcloud, Dropbox, WebDAV or paid Joplin Cloud
  • End-to-end encryption is available but off until you turn it on
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For comparison, we also reviewed Microsoft Word (15/30) as a benchmark.

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