Obsidian

Where Obsidian fits

Obsidian keeps each vault as a folder of Markdown files, so notes remain readable outside the app and easy to back up with ordinary tools. The core app is free for personal and commercial use without an account. Paid extras are optional: Sync adds encrypted cross-device syncing and version history, while Publish turns selected notes into a public site. The interface starts spare, but workspaces can become highly tailored through themes, hotkeys, properties, templates, and community extensions.

Before you build a vault

The best fit depends on how much setup you want to own.

1. Choose it for control: local files avoid lock-in and work offline.
2. Expect configuration: useful workflows often require plugins and personal conventions.
3. Plan collaboration separately: Obsidian is strongest for individual knowledge work, not live team editing.
4. Budget only if needed: use your own sync method or pay for the official services.