Compare software

NotesObsidian
Freemium

Free and open source; a Pro version for $14.99 adds editing inside task boards.

 Free

Free for everyone, including commercial use, in the vendor’s own words. Obsidian Sync and…

Windows, macOS, Linux Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Browser extension
  • Local-first storage
  • Instant search across notes
  • Notes are plain Markdown files in a folder you control, readable without the app
  • Linking, backlinks, tags, graph view and fast search across the vault
  • Task boards are read-only without the paid Pro version
  • No mobile apps mentioned
  • The application is not open source, only the plugin ecosystem and the releases repository
  • Syncing between devices means paying for Obsidian Sync or wiring up your own sync tool
Downloadable app Downloadable app, Browser extension
Open source Closed source
License: MPL-2.0 License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed No account needed
Works offline Works offline

Checked October 1, 2026

Checked September 20, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.