Logseq
Outliner and knowledge graph app that stores everything as local plain-text files.
Quick facts
- Price model
- Open source
- Starting price
- Free
- Best for
- Daily notes · Outliner workflows · Graph-based thinking
- Replaces
- Roam Research, Workflowy premium, Notion for PKM
- Platforms
- MacWindowsLinuxiOSAndroid
- Last verified
- 2026-06-22
Why it's listed
Roam-style linking without a monthly research subscription—your graph lives in local files.
Logseq uses bullet journals and bidirectional links to build a personal wiki. It's free and open source, stores data locally, and appeals to Roam/Obsidian users who prefer outliner-first thinking.
The catch
Jump to setup guide ↓Learning curve for outliner syntax; mobile app still maturing compared to desktop.
How to set up Logseq
Outliner + graph notes as local files—Roam-style thinking without a monthly research subscription.
- Time
- 25–40 min
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Verified
- 2026-06-22
Before you start
- Pick graph storage folder (Documents/Logseq)
- Decide sync: Syncthing or iCloud (conflicts possible—one editor at a time)
- 10 minutes to learn bullet/indent syntax
Install and create graph
Download Logseq. Create new graph in Documents/Logseq/Household. This folder is plain files—back it up.
Daily journal habit
Use today's journal page for capture. Bullet → indent for sub-thoughts. [[Link]] other pages with double brackets.
Link related ideas
Create pages for projects (Kitchen Reno, Subscriptions Audit). Link from journal bullets. Graph view shows connections.
Optional — sync
Syncthing the graph folder to second device (see Syncthing guide). Open same graph path on laptop.
Export safety
Settings → Export → Markdown or JSON monthly. Your graph outlives any app shutdown.
Troubleshooting
- Sync corrupted graph
- Restore from backup; avoid simultaneous edit on iCloud+desktop.
- Overwhelming graph
- Archive old journals to separate graph yearly.
- Want WYSIWYG notes
- Obsidian may fit better (see our Obsidian guide).
Keep it working
- Weekly review linked pages
- Plugins sparingly—disable unused
- Mobile for read-mostly; heavy editing on desktop
Official docs: docs.logseq.com/
Good fit for
- Researchers
- Students
- Obsidian users wanting outliner mode
Not ideal for
- Teams needing structured project management
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