Standard Notes

Notes & Knowledge

A notes application emphasizing end-to-end encryption and cross-device synchronization, starting with simple plain-text notes.

Use with conditions

Official website Repository

Last updatedRelease 2026-08-17

Open source licenseAGPL-3.0

PlatformsWindows · macOS · Linux · iOS · Android · Web

DeploymentDesktop / Mobile / Web

About this project

Standard Notes stores notes and files across web, desktop, and mobile applications. Its repository describes end-to-end encrypted synchronization and an option to run a synchronization server yourself. The web client consists of separately deployable static application files. Client access and the service transporting synchronized data are therefore distinct components of the overall system.

Different note types handle plain text, rich text, Markdown, tasks, code, and spreadsheets. Organizational tools include nested folders built from tags, pinning, archiving, and Smart Views based on custom queries. Import and export help move material. Application locking and individual note protection add access controls, with biometric unlocking available on supported mobile devices. Notes can also be exported later.

Clients cover iOS, Android, browsers, macOS, Windows, and Linux. The features page presents long-term revision history, encrypted nightly email backups, and editor choices alongside plan comparisons. These advertised capabilities should not all be assumed to belong to the free basic offering. The applicable plan determines which editing, history, and backup features are available.

Standard Notes official repository README Standard Notes — Features

Decision guide

Why it is worth a look

The free Standard plan includes plain-text notes and multi-device synchronization
Desktop, phone, and browser clients
Data export is available

Before you use it

Enhanced features such as rich text, Markdown, and file storage vary by plan
Manage your own synchronization account and password
Take care with storage and deletion locations after plaintext export

Manual setupLow

With an AI agentLow

DeploymentDesktop / Mobile / Web

Additional requirements1 confirmed; others not verified

Use a supported operating system; Have permission to install local applications; Confirmed requirements: Account; Some requirements have not been verified. Check the official setup instructions.

What it can do

End-to-end encrypted synchronization
Multi-device notes
Offline access
Organization with tags
Encrypted or plaintext export

Who it fits

Good for

Valuing simple text and encrypted synchronization; Willingness to evaluate enhanced plans as needed

Not a fit

Requiring all advanced editing and file features for free

Getting started

Create a personal notes account in the official web app
Download a desktop or mobile client as needed
Write test notes and check synchronization and export

Alternatives to consider

What it takes

Getting startedLow

Ongoing maintenanceLow

Failure impactModerate

Knowledge neededLow

Not selected for comparison.

Get help from an AI agent

DeploymentDesktop / Mobile / Web

Additional requirements1 confirmed; others not verified

With an AI agentLow

{
  "project": "Standard Notes",
  "decision": "Use with conditions",
  "purpose": "A notes application emphasizing end-to-end encryption and cross-device synchronization, starting with simple plain-text notes.",
  "repository": "https://github.com/standardnotes/app",
  "official_site": "https://standardnotes.com/",
  "deploy_shape": "Desktop / Mobile / Web",
  "additional_dependencies": "Use a supported operating system; Have permission to install local applications; Confirmed requirements: Account; Some requirements have not been verified. Check the official setup instructions.",
  "direct_setup": "Easy: use the official graphical installer",
  "ai_assisted_setup": "Easy: AI can explain platform choices, settings, and errors; successful troubleshooting is not guaranteed",
  "operational_burden": "Low: update regularly and independently back up personal data",
  "operational_risk": "Moderate: back up important data before importing or synchronizing",
  "knowledge_requirement": "Low: basic knowledge of installing applications, managing files, and backups",
  "license": "AGPL-3.0",
  "install_steps": [
    "Create a personal notes account in the official web app",
    "Download a desktop or mobile client as needed",
    "Write test notes and check synchronization and export"
  ],
  "good_for": "Valuing simple text and encrypted synchronization; Willingness to evaluate enhanced plans as needed",
  "avoid_if": "Requiring all advanced editing and file features for free"
}