flatnotes vs siyuan
Self-hosted note-taking projects compared
flatnotes stores notes as ordinary Markdown files in a flat folder, with search, tags, and note links. siyuan is a broader block-based knowledge workspace with references, databases, flashcards, and apps for multiple platforms; its Docker hosting has specific limitations.
flatnotes: Take Notes in Self-Hosted Markdown Files
flatnotes is a self-hosted note-taking web app that stores notes as ordinary Markdown files instead of using a database. It suits people who want searchable, taggable notes they can manage independently of the app.
siyuan: Organize Knowledge in a Self-Hosted Workspace
SiYuan is a privacy-first knowledge workspace for organizing notes as linked content blocks. It combines a Markdown WYSIWYG editor, references, databases, flashcards, and AI features, with desktop, mobile, and self-hosted options.
| flatnotes | siyuan | |
|---|---|---|
| Language | Vue | TypeScript |
| License | MIT | AGPL-3.0 |
| Stars | 3.2k | 46.6k |
| Forks | 218 | 3k |
| Last analyzed | Oct 3, 2026 | Oct 3, 2026 |
Key differences
- flatnotes keeps notes in portable Markdown files that can be edited outside the app; siyuan organizes content as linked blocks with references and backlinks.
- flatnotes focuses on straightforward note-taking with full-text search, tags, and wikilinks; siyuan adds features such as databases, flashcards, outlines, and embedded SQL queries.
- flatnotes is written in Vue and uses the MIT license; siyuan is written in TypeScript and uses the AGPL-3.0 license.
- flatnotes can be run with Docker; siyuan offers desktop and mobile apps, a CLI, and Docker hosting, but Docker hosting is browser-only and does not connect to its desktop or mobile apps.
- flatnotes is suited to people who prefer a simple, file-based notes app; siyuan is aimed at people seeking a structured knowledge workspace, and some features require paid membership.
Choose flatnotes if you…
- want notes stored as regular Markdown files that you can edit or move independently of the app.
- need full-text search, tags, and wikilinks in a simple self-hosted notes app.
- prefer a configurable authentication setup, including read-only access or two-factor authentication.
Choose siyuan if you…
- need block-level references, backlinks, databases, or embedded SQL queries for organizing knowledge.
- want features such as flashcards, long-document outlines, and export options.
- need desktop or mobile apps, a CLI, or a workspace designed for linking ideas across documents.
This comparison is generated with AI from the OSRepos analyses of both projects. Always check each project's repository and documentation before choosing.