VNote is a Qt-based open-source note-taking application that combines note management with editing for Markdown, Typst, plain text and code, mind maps, and PDF reading on Linux, Windows, and macOS.
The Best QOwnNotes Alternatives in 2026
Looking for something like QOwnNotes? Here are 24 alternatives, ranked by how closely they match it on purpose, features and platforms. Of these, 3 are free or have a free plan and 6 are open source.
QOwnNotes supports Markdown note-taking on Linux, macOS, and Windows, and works with Nextcloud Notes.
Top picks at a glance
Quick comparison
| # | Alternative | Pricing | Open source | Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vnote | — | Yes | Linux, macOS, Windows |
| 2 | Joplin | — | Not stated | Android, iOS, Linux |
| 3 | SigmaNote | — | Not stated | Web |
| 4 | Edna | — | Not stated | Web |
| 5 | Xournalpp | — | Yes | Linux, macOS, Windows |
| 6 | MicroPad | — | Not stated | Linux, macOS, Web |
| 7 | App | — | Yes | Android, iOS, Linux |
| 8 | HelixNotes | — | Not stated | Android, iOS, Linux |
| 9 | Notesnook | — | Not stated | Android, iOS, Linux |
| 10 | Joplin | — | Not stated | Android, iOS, Linux |
All QOwnNotes alternatives
Joplin
github.com/laurent22/joplinTake notes and sync them across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS using Joplin, the privacy-focused note-taking app.
SigmaNote
sigmanote.appSigmaNote organizes PDFs, voice notes, webpages, and videos into a searchable knowledge base for AI-assisted learning and work.
Edna
edna.arslexis.ioTake notes in Edna, which the supplied page describes as a note-taking application with added features.
Xournal++ supports handwritten note-taking and PDF annotation on Linux, macOS, and Windows, including pen input from devices such as Wacom tablets.
MicroPad
getmicropad.comMicroPad supports note-taking and note organization, according to its product page.
Standard Notes is an end-to-end encrypted note-taking app for capturing notes and files, according to its repository description.
HelixNotes
helixnotes.comHelixNotes stores Markdown notes as local plain-text files and lets users decide whether to sync them.
Notesnook
notesnook.comNotesnook provides open-source note-taking with zero-knowledge encryption, a free tier, and paid plans for added storage and features.
Joplin
joplinapp.orgJoplin provides open-source note-taking, with plugins, help resources, and a cloud service listed on its site.
Mochi Cards
mochi.cardsMochi supports spaced-repetition flashcards and note-taking, according to its product page.
Lokus - A modern, intuitive note-taking application with powerful editing capabilities
A fully open source and end-to-end encrypted note taking alternative to Evernote.
SilentNotes
martinstoeckli.ch/silentnotesSilentNotes offers cross-platform note-taking, with downloads and privacy information on its site.
Obsidian
obsidian.mdObsidian supports private note-taking, with sync, publishing, plugins, and web clipping listed among its options.
Noteshelf
noteshelf.netHandwriting, document annotation, diaries, and journals are among the features of Noteshelf note-taking app.
Flotes turns Markdown notes into flash cards, mind maps, and a wiki to support learning.
Tolaria organizes notes as Markdown files and describes itself as a second-brain app.
Inkdrop
inkdrop.appOrganize project context in Inkdrop’s Markdown notes for developers, with AI features for connecting information to agent workflows.
Papers.IM
papers.imPapers.IM provides in-browser note-taking, with its page describing the app as restrictionless and for digital professionals.
Butterfly
butterfly.linwood.devLinwood Butterfly provides an endless workspace for handwriting, sketching, annotating, taking notes, and organizing ideas.
Trilium
triliumnotes.orgTrilium Notes is an open-source app for taking notes and organizing a personal knowledge base locally or through synchronization.
Butterfly supports handwritten note-taking, drawing, and organizing ideas in an open-source endless workspace.
Org-roam is a Roam-inspired note-taking project built around Org-mode, as stated in its repository description.
Alternatives to similar tools
What is the best alternative to QOwnNotes?
Is there a free alternative to QOwnNotes?
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Alternatives are suggested from the purpose and features described in our listings. Different pages for the same product appear once. Read each description to check whether it fits your task. How we choose alternatives · Suggest an alternative























