Coda
Docs, tables, and apps combined into one collaborative workspace
Joplin
Offline-first Markdown note-taking with end-to-end encrypted sync
Free note-taking and to-do app that stores notes in Markdown, works offline, and syncs securely across Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS.
Overview
What is Joplin?
Joplin is a note-taking and to-do application designed for users who need reliable offline access to their notes while maintaining the flexibility to sync across devices. Notes are stored in Markdown format, making them portable and easy to edit in any text editor. The application supports full-text search, tagging, and organization into notebooks, handling large collections of notes efficiently.
Key Capabilities
Built on an "offline first" architecture, Joplin ensures all data remains accessible on your device without requiring an internet connection. When you're ready to sync, end-to-end encryption protects your notes across cloud services including Nextcloud, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Joplin Cloud. The platform imports Evernote exports seamlessly, converting formatted content to Markdown while preserving metadata and attachments.
Who Uses Joplin
Joplin serves individuals and teams who prioritize data ownership, privacy, and cross-platform availability. Available on Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS, it includes a Web Clipper extension for Firefox and Chrome to capture web pages and screenshots. The app supports customization through plugins and themes, allowing users to tailor the experience to their workflow.
Highlights
Offline-first architecture keeps all notes accessible without internet
End-to-end encrypted sync with Nextcloud, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Joplin Cloud
Markdown-based notes with full-text search across all platforms
Web Clipper for Firefox and Chrome to save pages and screenshots
Pros
- Complete offline access ensures notes are always available
- Strong privacy with end-to-end encryption and local data storage
- Cross-platform support covers desktop, mobile, and web browsers
- Extensible through plugins and themes for workflow customization
Considerations
- Markdown format requires learning curve for non-technical users
- Self-hosted sync setup can be complex for beginners
- Plugin ecosystem smaller than commercial alternatives
- Interface may feel less polished than proprietary note apps
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Fit guide
Great for
- Privacy-conscious users who want encrypted, self-hosted note storage
- Markdown enthusiasts seeking portable, plain-text note formats
- Cross-platform users needing consistent experience on desktop and mobile
- Evernote migrants looking for an open alternative with import support
Not ideal when
- Users who prefer rich WYSIWYG editors over Markdown syntax
- Teams requiring real-time collaborative editing features
- Organizations needing enterprise admin controls and user management
- Beginners uncomfortable with technical sync configuration
How teams use it
Migrating from Evernote
Import existing Evernote notebooks with formatted content, attachments, and metadata converted to Markdown while maintaining organization structure.
Research and web clipping
Capture web pages and screenshots directly from Firefox or Chrome, storing them as searchable Markdown notes synchronized across devices.
Offline field work
Access and edit notes on mobile devices without internet connectivity, then sync changes when connection is restored.
Privacy-focused personal knowledge base
Build a searchable note collection with end-to-end encryption, syncing to self-hosted Nextcloud or commercial cloud services.
Tech snapshot
TypeScript72%
JavaScript18%
Rust4%
HTML2%
CSS1%
Java1%
Frequently asked questions
Does Joplin require an internet connection to work?
No. Joplin is offline-first, meaning all notes are stored locally on your device and remain fully accessible without internet. Sync is optional and only needed when sharing notes across devices.
Can I import my notes from Evernote?
Yes. Joplin imports Evernote exports including formatted content (converted to Markdown), images, attachments, and metadata like geolocation and timestamps.
What cloud services does Joplin support for syncing?
Joplin syncs with Nextcloud, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Joplin Cloud. All sync methods support end-to-end encryption to protect your data.
Are notes stored in a proprietary format?
No. Notes are stored as plain Markdown files, making them portable and editable in any text editor without requiring Joplin.
What platforms does Joplin run on?
Joplin is available for Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS. A Web Clipper browser extension is also available for Firefox and Chrome.
Project at a glance
Active- Stars
- 53,062
- Watchers
- 53,062
- Forks
- 5,686
Repo age9 years old
Last commit6 hours ago
Self-hostingSupported
Primary languageTypeScript
Last synced 52 minutes ago