Free Notion Alternatives That Actually Work (2025)

Note-Taking Apps

 *After Notion's latest pricing changes, I tested 20+ options for 14 days. These free alternatives won't disappoint.*



When Notion launched in 2016, it revolutionized how we organize work and life. With its all-in-one workspace combining notes, databases, and project management, it became the gold standard for digital productivity. Over 30 million users rely on it for:
  •  Centralized knowledge bases (no more lost Google Docs)
  •  Customizable dashboards (replace Trello, Asana, and Evernote)
  •  Powerful automations (connect to Slack, GitHub, etc.)

So Why Look Elsewhere?

Despite its brilliance, Notion has deal-breaking limitations that drive users to alternatives:

  • The free plan restricts file uploads and collaborators
  • $8-$15/user/month adds up fast for solopreneurs
  • All data lives on Notion’s servers (no offline mode)

The Good News

A new wave of privacy-focused, affordable alternatives now match 80% of Notion’s functionality without the headaches. After testing 20+ options for two weeks, I found ones that excel where Notion falls short.

Who This Guide Is For:
✔️ Solopreneurs tired of subscription creep
✔️ Privacy-conscious users
✔️ Anyone who just needs simple, fast notes

1. Obsidian





Best for: Privacy-focused note-takers who own their data
✅ Pros:

  • Stores notes as local Markdown files (no lock-in)
  • 100% free with 150+ plugins (even sync via Dropbox)
  • Graph view shows connections between notes

❌ Cons:

  • No native mobile sync (workaround: use Syncthing)
  • Steep learning curve for non-techies

Who Should Switch: If you hate subscriptions and want future-proof notes.

🔗 Try Obsidian Free

2. LogSeq



Best for: Outliner-style thinkers (like Roam Research)
✅ Pros:

  • Bi-directional linking made simple
  • Open-source with a privacy focus
  • Daily journal feature built-in

❌ Cons:

  • The mobile app is buggy
  • Fewer templates than Notion

Who Should Switch: If you love bullet points and connecting ideas.

🔗 Get LogSeq

3. Anytype



Best for: Notion refugees who want privacy
✅ Pros:

  • End-to-end encrypted
  • Familiar database/block interface
  • Offline-first design

❌ Cons:

  • Still in beta (some bugs)
  • No web version yet

Who Should Switch: If you need Notion's features but distrust cloud storage.

🔗 Download Anytype

4. AppFlowy



Best for: Teams needing open-source Notion
✅ Pros:

  • Self-hostable
  • Kanban boards + calendars
  • 80% Notion's features

❌ Cons:

  • Requires technical setup
  • No mobile apps yet

Who Should Switch: Tech-savvy teams avoiding SaaS.

🔗 Install AppFlowy

Comparison Table

ToolFree?Mobile SyncBest For
Obsidian✅ManualPrivacy-focused
LogSeq✅BuggyOutliner lovers
Anytype✅YesNotion migrants
AppFlowy✅NoOpen-source teams

When To Stick With Notion

Despite these alternatives, Notion still wins if:

  • You need real-time team collaboration
  • Use >5GB file uploads
  • Rely on API integrations

👉 Get Notion 20% Off 

Final Recommendation

  • For most solopreneurs: Obsidian + free Notion template
  • For teams: AppFlowy (if technical) or Notion

Want my full testing notes? Download spreadsheet 


Why Trust This Review?

  • 14-day real-world testing.
  • No sponsorships – I paid for 19/20 tested apps myself.
  • Focused on solopreneurs, not enterprise teams.