Obsidian

Obsidian is a local-first note-taking app built around Markdown files stored on your own device. It creates a personal knowledge base where every note can link to others — a “second brain” that maps how your ideas connect.

Key Features

• Bidirectional linking — notes reference each other automatically
• Graph view visualizes your entire knowledge network
• AI Copilot plugin for writing, summarizing, and Q&A on your notes
• Canvas for visual brainstorming and layouts
• 1,000+ community plugins for every workflow
• Works offline, no subscription required for core features

Pricing

• Free: Core app, unlimited notes, local storage
• Sync ($5/month): End-to-end encrypted sync across devices
• Publish ($10/month): Publish notes as a website
• Catalyst (one-time $25+): Early access to insider builds

Best For

Researchers, writers, developers, and knowledge workers who want a durable, portable note system they fully own.