I’ve liked using standard notes.
this post was submitted on 09 Mar 2026
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SNotepad + Syncthing
dumbpad
Logseq. Have used it for years. Sync across devices via syncthing. Since its all markdown files there should be no issues.
Need to restore? Copy files to new location, point the program at the new folder and you're good to go.
Seconded, came here to suggest exactly this. Do prefer syncthing over their built-in cloud sync, as the former is much more dependable.
Some CalDav servers also do notes. As others have noted, Joplin has a self-hosted option. If you're willing to go with a service, Obsidian is .md based and multiplatform.
why would you host anything? that's just an app. QOwnNotes (stupidest name ever) stores .MD files that you can syncthing, rsync, copy, edit externally, whatever, allowing you never to be locked-in again. all the toolboxes can be turned off, netting you a UI that looks like apple's notes.
I never really considered that tbh. but for what it's worth, I like a central repository
that's what syncthing is for. you can set it up to sync the Notes folder to your other devices in a read/write way or just one way, so you got your central repo.
also, qown has nextcloud notes sync built in.
I tried SilverBullet and it was really good and really neat, but not for me. Now I’m using Obsidian, which is easy enough to self host, but the company that makes it is small and indie and I decided to support them with a subscription.
I also switched to Asahi Linux 5 months ago. After decades of being an Apple fan, they are most unappealing these days.
It's worth noting that Obsidian is closed source and proprietary.
there's a dongle for that!
Joplin
I installed joplin, and while it doesn't have flat file structure, I think this is the way to go. It's easy enough to create backups through the UI.
+1 for Joplin. Sync via webdav-server (nginx, nextcloud) or their sync server. Works like a charm.
Does everyone pay for Joplin or is there a way to get it to work for free?
You can use Joplin without Paying. You only need to pay for Joplin Cloud for syncing. But you can use a selfhosted Joplin Server or Webdav to sync you notes without it.
oh, I should note (geddit?), it should have an ios app and a macos app/web accessible site.
I use Memos. It doesn't use a flat file structure, but it does just use a SQLite database file. You can open it in any SQLite browser to read your notes, or copy it somewhere for backups.
Do you think your boy Pichai isn't licking boots? He sat right next to Tim Apple at the inauguration.
That's why they are asking for a self-hosted solution, not a Google one.
eh, I'm going to keep my iphone, but I want to cancel icloud, because fuck giving them any extra money so they can buy yet another golden statue for trump.
Oh I see.