Free, open-source alternatives to Microsoft OneNote
Microsoft's digital notebook. 4 apps you can run yourself instead of Microsoft OneNote, sorted by how well they replace it. Each one is open source, so your data stays with you.
JoplinBest match
Note taking application with markdown editor and encryption support for mobile and desktop platforms. Runs client-side and syncs through a self hosted Nextcloud instance or similar (alternative to Evernote).
TriliumNext Notes
Cross-platform hierarchical note taking application with focus on building large personal knowledge bases (fork of Trilium Notes).
SiYuan
A privacy-first personal knowledge management software, written in typescript and golang.
Standard Notes
Simple and private notes app. Protect your privacy while getting more done. That's Standard Notes.
Side by side
| App | Stars | License | Activity | Runs on |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joplin | 56,706 | MIT | Node.js | |
| TriliumNext Notes | 38,301 | AGPL-3.0 | Node.js, Docker, Kubernetes | |
| SiYuan | 46,739 | AGPL-3.0 | Docker, Go | |
| Standard Notes | 6,659 | GPL-3.0 | Ruby |
Why replace Microsoft OneNote?
Microsoft OneNote works, but your data lives in someone else's account, the price can change at any time, and features can disappear. An open-source app you run yourself is yours: you choose where it runs, who can see the data, and when to update.
Questions
What is the best free alternative to Microsoft OneNote?
Joplin is the closest open-source replacement for Microsoft OneNote in our list. TriliumNext Notes and SiYuan are worth a look too, depending on what you need.
Can I self-host an alternative to Microsoft OneNote?
Yes. All 4 apps on this page are open source and can run on your own server, usually with Docker, or on a managed host that installs them for you.