Joplin
Open-source note-taking with optional end-to-end encrypted sync you control.
Quick facts
- Price model
- Open source
- Starting price
- Free
- Best for
- Cross-device notes · Encrypted sync · Evernote escapees
- Replaces
- Evernote, OneNote, Bear
- Platforms
- MacWindowsLinuxiOSAndroid
- Last verified
- 2026-06-22
Why it's listed
Fully open source with exportable Markdown—sync is optional and you pick the backend.
Joplin stores notes as Markdown and syncs through your own cloud (Dropbox, Nextcloud, WebDAV, or Joplin Cloud). It handles notebooks, tags, web clipper, and attachments without locking you into a proprietary format.
The catch
Jump to setup guide ↓UI feels utilitarian compared to polished commercial apps; Joplin Cloud sync has a paid tier.
How to set up Joplin
Markdown notes on all devices—pick a sync backend you control instead of Evernote's bill.
- Time
- 25–40 min
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Verified
- 2026-06-22
Before you start
- Desktop + phone you want synced
- Choose sync: Syncthing folder, Nextcloud, Dropbox, or WebDAV
- Export from old app (ENEX if leaving Evernote)
Install and create notebooks
Install Joplin on desktop. Create notebooks (Personal, Work, Reference). Notes are Markdown files in app data.
Configure sync target
Settings → Synchronisation → pick File system (Syncthing path), Nextcloud, or WebDAV. Avoid Joplin Cloud if avoiding subscription—self-hosted paths are free.
Set E2EE password
Encryption → set master password if syncing via third-party cloud. Store password in Bitwarden—loss means unreadable notes.
Install mobile and sync test
Joplin mobile → same sync settings → Sync. Create test note on phone; appears on desktop.
Import old notes
File → Import notes from ENEX or Markdown folder. Tag and prune during import—don't drag 10 years of clutter blindly.
Troubleshooting
- Sync conflicts
- Two devices edited same note offline—pick correct version in conflict dialog.
- Syncthing path wrong
- Point Joplin file sync at dedicated subfolder, not entire home directory.
- Want graph PKM instead
- Obsidian or Logseq (see our guides) for linked thinking.
Keep it working
- Export backup quarterly: JEX or Markdown
- Update clients together to avoid version skew
- Web clipper sparingly—review clipped junk monthly
Official docs: joplinapp.org/help/apps/sync
Good fit for
- Privacy-minded note-takers
- Open-source supporters
- Multi-device users
Not ideal for
- People who want a graph-native PKM tool
- Minimalists who hate configuration
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