10 Best Open Source Scrivener Alternatives
A curated collection of the 10 best open source and self-hosted alternatives to Scrivener in 2026.
Looking for a free, privacy-friendly, or self-hosted replacement for Scrivener in 2026? The top open-source alternative is Joplin — Cross-platform note-taking app with end-to-end encryption, Markdown support, web clipping, and sync via Dropbox, OneDrive, or Joplin Cloud..
Other highly rated open-source Scrivener alternatives include Logseq, Notesnook and Blinko.
Cross-platform note-taking app with end-to-end encryption, Markdown support, web clipping, and sync via Dropbox, OneDrive, or Joplin Cloud.
Cross-platform note-taking app with end-to-end encryption, Markdown support, web clipping, and sync via Dropbox, OneDrive, or Joplin Cloud.
Privacy-first open-source knowledge base
Logseq is a privacy-first, open-source knowledge base that helps you organize thoughts, manage tasks, and retain knowledge efficiently. Built for local-first workflows, it stores all data in plain markdown files for future-proof access. - Local-first architecture: All notes stored locally in markdown files for complete data ownership - Outliner & block-based editing: Structure ideas with nested blocks and indentation - Flashcards & spaced repetition: Built-in flashcard system for memorization (via plugins) - Knowledge graph: Visualize connections between notes and concepts - Task management: Built-in task tracking with kanban-style boards - PDF annotation: Highlight and annotate PDFs directly within the app - Cross-platform sync: Encrypted sync between devices (beta) - Plugin ecosystem: 150+ plugins to extend functionality - Multi-format support: Works with markdown, org-mode, and more - Privacy focused: No tracking, no ads, GDPR compliant - Open source: MIT licensed, available on GitHub - Cross-platform: Native apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android - Self-hosting: Not required (local-first by default), but sync service available - Data format: Plain text markdown files for easy migration - Performance: Optimized for handling thousands of notes efficiently
Open source zero-knowledge private note taking app
Notesnook is a privacy-first note-taking app designed to keep your personal data secure and private. Unlike traditional note apps, Notesnook ensures your notes are encrypted end-to-end, meaning only you can read them. - End-to-end encryption: All notes are encrypted before leaving your device, ensuring only you can access them. - Cross-platform sync: Write on your laptop and finish on your phone with seamless, encrypted sync. - Open-source: Every app and server component is open-source (GPLv3), allowing anyone to verify security and privacy. - App lock: Protect your notes with fingerprint, PIN, or password. - Rich text editor: Supports tables, checklists, code blocks, math formulas, and attachments. - Web clipper: Save articles and web pages directly to your notes without ads or trackers. - Published notes: Share a single note as a password-protected web page while keeping the rest private. - Linked notes: Connect related notes for better organization and context. - Markdown support: Write notes in Markdown for enhanced formatting. Notesnook is fully open-source, with clients available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and the web. The sync server is also open-source, allowing for self-hosting if desired. The project is built with privacy and security as core principles, making it a reliable alternative to mainstream note-taking apps.
Open-source AI-powered note-taking app
Blinko is an open-source AI-powered note-taking application designed to help you quickly capture and organize inspiration. Built with Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) technology, it enables natural language search and retrieval of your notes while keeping all data securely stored in your self-hosted environment. - AI-Enhanced Search: Utilize RAG technology for quick natural language search and retrieval of notes - Data Ownership: All notes and data are securely stored in your self-hosted environment - Fast & Efficient: Plain text and Markdown support for instant idea capture and formatting - Open Collaboration: Fully open-source with transparent code and community contributions - Instant Recording: Quickly capture and organize inspirations without losing ideas - Cross-Platform Sync: Seamless synchronization across devices - Plugin Ecosystem: Extend functionality with community plugins and integrations - Privacy-First: No third-party access to your personal notes or data Blinko is open-source and can be self-hosted on your own infrastructure. The application supports Docker deployment for easy setup and maintenance. All data remains under your control, ensuring complete privacy and compliance with data protection regulations.
Privacy-first all-in-one workspace for notes and collaboration
Anytype is a privacy-first workspace that combines notes, tasks, databases, and chats into a single secure environment. Built with end-to-end encryption, your data remains fully owned and controlled by you, accessible only through your device. - Absolute Privacy & Security: All data is encrypted locally with keys you control. No servers or gatekeepers involved. - Offline-First Operation: Works seamlessly without internet access. Syncs peer-to-peer over local networks when online. - Block-Based Editor: Compose notes, tasks, and databases using a flexible, no-code block editor. - Visual Databases: Create tables, Kanban boards, galleries, and graph views to organize information your way. - Cross-Platform Sync: Native apps for iOS, Android, and desktop with fast, reliable synchronization. - Open Protocols: Build custom apps freely without permission requirements or vendor lock-in. - Self-Hosting Support: Store data locally and self-host backups wherever you prefer. - Templates & Widgets: Jumpstart projects with pre-built templates and customizable widgets. Anytype uses peer-to-peer synchronization and local-first architecture. While the core app is open-source (TypeScript), the sync server and some features are proprietary. Self-hosting is supported for backups, and the open protocols allow for custom app development. The project is developed by Any, a Swiss association, ensuring GDPR compliance and EU data residency standards.
End-to-end encrypted notes app with unmatched privacy
Standard Notes is a free, secure note-taking application designed to protect your personal and sensitive information with industry-leading end-to-end encryption. Unlike mainstream note-taking services, Standard Notes ensures your data remains private and inaccessible to third parties, including employers and governments. - End-to-end encryption: Audited, zero-knowledge encryption protects all notes and files - Cross-platform sync: Access your data seamlessly across unlimited devices - Advanced privacy controls: Prevents unauthorized access from employers, governments, and hackers - Offline access: Always have an offline copy of your data for uninterrupted access - Secure file storage: Store sensitive documents, passwords, financial records, and more - Rich text and Markdown support: Flexible formatting options for all note types - Automated backups: Secure cloud sync ensures data safety even if devices are lost - Open-source applications: Transparent, audited codebase for maximum trust - Multi-purpose notes: Supports tasks, code snippets, journaling, and more Standard Notes offers a fully self-hostable solution through its open-source applications. The platform is built with privacy-first principles, ensuring compliance with GDPR and other data protection regulations. No AI models are used in the core functionality, making it a reliable choice for users seeking AI-free software. The application is available as a web app, desktop client, and mobile app, with all versions maintaining the same high standards of encryption and security.
Distraction-free open-source notebook for focused writing
Darkwrite is a minimalist, open-source notebook designed for distraction-free writing. Built for users who prioritize simplicity and privacy, it offers a clean editor with no AI integrations, offline functionality, and full customization. - Distraction-free writing: Simple interface with no unnecessary features or AI buttons - Offline-first: All notes stored locally; no account or internet required - Customizable themes & fonts: Choose from included themes or create your own - One-click backups: Archive and restore notes effortlessly - No ads or tracking: Respects user privacy with no data collection - Open source: AGPLv3 licensed with full transparency - Cross-platform: Available for Linux with planned Flatpak support - Future roadmap: Collaboration sync server, plugin API, and graph view Darkwrite is a fully self-contained desktop application with no backend or cloud dependencies. All data remains on the user's device, making it inherently self-hosted. The app is built with modern web technologies and distributed as a native Linux binary. No server setup or configuration is required.
Open-source, lightweight note-taking app with E2E encryption
OpenNotas is an open-source, lightweight, and privacy-respecting note-taking application designed for simplicity and security. Built for individuals who value a distraction-free space to capture thoughts, it offers seamless synchronization across devices while ensuring your data remains encrypted and under your control. - Simple & Intuitive: Minimalist design with no complicated settings or learning curve. Start writing notes instantly with a single tap. - Cross-Platform Support: Available on mobile, desktop, and all major operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux) with a native-like experience. - End-to-End Encryption (E2EE): Notes are encrypted with AES before syncing, ensuring your data remains private even if servers are compromised. Your secret key never leaves your device. - Offline-First: Full functionality without an internet connection. Data syncs automatically when connectivity is restored. - Pluggable Adapters: Sync notes via your preferred backend (Turso, S3-compatible storage, or local-only) for complete data ownership. - No Accounts Required: No sign-ups, no tracking, and no clutter—just open the app and start writing. - Multi-Language Support: Available in English, Vietnamese, Russian, and Traditional Chinese. OpenNotas is a Progressive Web App (PWA) built with modern web technologies. It can be self-hosted using any compatible storage backend (Turso, S3, or local) for full control over your data. The application is open-source under the MIT license, allowing for customization and community contributions. For setup instructions and advanced configurations, refer to the official documentation.
Justnote is a secure note-taking app that lets you easily create and sync notes across devices while maintaining full control of your data.
Justnote is a secure note-taking app that lets you easily create and sync notes across devices while maintaining full control of your data.
Open-source collaborative document editor
Docs is an open-source, web-native document editor designed for real-time collaboration, structured knowledge, and full data ownership. Whether you self-host it or use a public instance, Docs empowers teams to create, organize, and share documents effortlessly. - Real-time collaboration with live cursors, presence indicators, and comments - Block-based editing using slash commands, tables, columns, and collapsible sections - Knowledge organization through nested documents and hierarchies - Granular access control for viewing, commenting, or editing permissions - Import & export support for .docx, .md, .odt, and .pdf formats - Version history with rollback capabilities for every save - Fast search to quickly find and pin frequently accessed documents - Self-hosting with full data ownership and no third-party dependencies - Accessibility compliance with ongoing WCAG/RGAA improvements - Optional AI integration for summarization, rewriting, translation, and slide creation - Built on open-source foundations: Next.js, Django REST Framework, Yjs, BlockNote.js - Self-hostable via Docker Compose, Kubernetes, Nix, or YunoHost - 100% MIT licensed with no vendor lock-in - Verified Digital Public Good by the DPG Alliance - AI integration supports custom LLM providers or Mistral models via Albert API - Security note: Documents are not end-to-end encrypted (not suitable for classified data)
About Scrivener
Scrivener is the go-to writing application for authors, screenwriters, academics, and professionals. It combines a word processor with project management tools to help writers organize, draft, and refine long-form content.
Key Features of Scrivener
- Flexible Writing: Compose text in any order, break projects into manageable sections, and restructure content with drag-and-drop simplicity.
- Integrated Research: Keep notes, PDFs, web pages, and images alongside your writing for seamless reference.
- Outlining Tools: Plan your manuscript in advance or restructure later with integrated outlining and "Scrivenings" mode for editing sections together.
- Multi-Format Export: Compile your work into Word, PDF, Final Draft, or plain text for publishing or submission.
- Cross-Platform: Available for Windows, macOS, and iOS with a consistent experience across devices.
- Customizable Workflow: Adapt the interface to your writing style with styles, annotations, and formatting options.
- Import/Export Support: Easily import existing documents (Word, OpenOffice, plain text) or export to industry-standard formats.
- No Distractions: Focus mode and full-screen writing eliminate distractions for deep work sessions.
Tech / Self-Hosting
Scrivener is a proprietary desktop application with native installers for Windows, macOS, and iOS. It does not require self-hosting or cloud infrastructure. The software is installed locally and operates offline, ensuring full data privacy and control over your writing projects.