Compare Joplin vs. Obsidian vs. Zettlr

Joplin is a versatile, open-source application designed for note-taking and task management, capable of accommodating a substantial volume of notes that are systematically arranged within notebooks. Users can search for, copy, tag, and edit these notes directly through the app or using their preferred text editor, with all notes formatted in Markdown. Additionally, it supports the import of Evernote notes through .enex files, allowing for the preservation of formatted content (which gets converted to Markdown), along with resources like images and attachments, as well as comprehensive metadata such as geolocation and timestamps. Furthermore, plain Markdown files are also compatible for importation. The app offers synchronization with various cloud storage services, including Nextcloud, Dropbox, OneDrive, and WebDAV, as well as local file systems such as network directories. During synchronization, all notes, notebooks, tags, and associated metadata are stored in plain text files, which allows for straightforward inspection, backup, and transfer. Joplin is accessible on multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS, ensuring broad usability for diverse users. Overall, its flexibility and feature-rich environment make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a robust note-taking solution.

Obsidian serves as a robust knowledge management tool that operates using a directory of plain text Markdown files stored locally. Much like the way our minds shift from one concept to another, your second brain should mimic this non-linear pattern. In Obsidian, the process of creating and navigating "connections" between notes is seamless and intuitive. Cultivate your notes with care, and at the end of your day, take a moment to appreciate the intricate web of knowledge you've created. Personalization in note-taking is key, and if you've experimented with various applications but always felt something was amiss, Obsidian offers a refreshing alternative. Designed to be highly customizable, it features 22 essential plugins and 149 additional community-created plugins, allowing you to tailor your toolkit and get started in just a few minutes. Furthermore, when Obsidian reaches version 1.0, you'll have the option to integrate third-party plugins or even create your own, opening up endless possibilities. In today's landscape, where cloud services are vulnerable to sudden changes or shutdowns, relying on proprietary formats and facing potential data lock-in is the last thing you need. With Obsidian, your information remains securely within a local folder, giving you peace of mind and complete control over your data. This ensures that your knowledge remains accessible and safe, no matter what the future holds.

Writing plays a crucial role in our daily lives, so why complicate it? Zettlr transforms the writing experience by being sleek, quick, and adaptable. Concentrate on what truly matters to you—publish your ideas rather than letting them fade away. In today's world, navigating the overwhelming amount of information can be just as challenging as getting a USB drive inserted correctly on the first try. With Zettlr, you can seamlessly organize your information utilizing the advanced Zettelkasten method. The standout feature is that, unlike many other tools, Zettlr never restricts your options. It accommodates nearly every method for creating connections and managing your files. Essentially, regardless of your background, all Zettelkästen are elegantly supported by Zettlr right from the start. Additionally, Zettlr's design flexibility allows for an effortless transition to dark mode and various themes tailored to your preferences. Switching between these options is as simple as the press of a button, making it an invaluable tool for anyone looking to enhance their writing experience. With Zettlr, you can truly maximize your productivity and creative output.