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Open source Notion alternatives

Top Note-taking & Knowledge Bases like Notion

The most popular alternative to Notion is Joplin, which has a free version. Other great alternatives to Notion are Baserow, Logseq, and AppFlowy.

Most alternatives to Notion are in the Note-taking & Knowledge Bases category, compared here by price, platform and features.

Notion alternatives
AllFreeOpen source
4 apps

All Notion alternatives

  1. Joplin is an open source note-taking app with Markdown notes, notebooks, end-to-end encrypted sync and a web clipper.

    11 Joplin alternatives

    Pros

    • Open source, with Markdown notes stored in an open format
    • End-to-end encrypted sync via Dropbox, OneDrive, WebDAV or Joplin Cloud
    • Web clipper and plugins extend the core app

    Cons

    • Interface feels dated next to newer note apps
    • Sync setup takes more effort than turnkey services
    • No web app for reaching your notes from a browser
    Cost / License
    FreemiumOpen source
  2. Baserow is a no-code database from the Dutch company of the same name, with a spreadsheet-like interface, linked tables, multiple views and a REST API. It also includes an application builder and AI fields for turning data into internal tools. The core is open source under MIT and can be self-hosted; the cloud version, hosted in the EU, has a free plan and paid tiers.

    8 Baserow alternatives

    Pros

    • Open source core that can be self-hosted at no cost
    • Familiar spreadsheet-style interface with linked tables and views
    • EU-hosted cloud option helps with GDPR requirements

    Cons

    • Smaller integration ecosystem than Airtable
    • Some advanced features are reserved for paid plans
    • Self-hosting requires server maintenance and updates
    Cost / License
    FreemiumOpen source
  3. Logseq is a privacy-first outliner that stores notes locally in Markdown or Org files, with bidirectional links, journals and whiteboards.

    7 Logseq alternatives

    Pros

    • Notes live in local Markdown or Org files that you fully own
    • Bidirectional links, block references and daily journals
    • Free and open source, with a plugin ecosystem

    Cons

    • Outliner-only structure is a poor fit for long-form writing
    • Can slow down with very large graphs
    • Syncing between devices takes extra setup
    Cost / License
    FreeOpen source
  4. AppFlowy is an open source workspace for docs, databases and kanban boards that you can self-host, with AI features and offline support.

    7 AppFlowy alternatives

    Pros

    • Open source Notion alternative that you can self-host
    • Docs, databases and kanban boards in one workspace
    • Offline support with apps on desktop and mobile

    Cons

    • Fewer templates and integrations than Notion
    • Some features still feel less polished than in mature rivals
    • Advanced AI features are reserved for paid plans
    Cost / License
    FreemiumOpen source

Notion vs its alternatives at a glance

Pricing, platforms and the key features of Notion, compared with its most popular alternatives.

Notion vs its alternatives at a glance
AppPricingPlatformsAI assistantAPI accessMarkdown supportReal-time collaborationTemplates
NotionFreemiumWeb, Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android
JoplinFreemiumOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux, iPhone, Android
BaserowFreemiumOpen sourceWeb, Self-hosted
LogseqFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux, iPhone, Android
AppFlowyFreemiumOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux, iPhone, Android, Self-hosted

Notion alternatives: frequently asked questions

What is the best alternative to Notion?

The most popular alternative to Notion is Joplin: Open source note-taking and to-do app with sync. Other great alternatives are Baserow, Logseq, and AppFlowy.

Is there a free alternative to Notion?

Yes, 4 alternatives are free or have a free plan, including Joplin, Baserow, Logseq, and AppFlowy.

Is there an open source alternative to Notion?

Yes, 4 open source alternatives are listed, including Joplin, Baserow, Logseq, and AppFlowy.

Is Notion free?

Notion has a free plan, with paid plans that unlock more features.

Compare Notion with its alternatives

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