01/ AppFlowy
Best for: A Notion-style workspace you can self-host.
Runs on: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
Visit AppFlowyOffice & Productivity · Notes and wikis
Free alternatives to Notion
Notion by Notion Labs: Notes, documents, databases and team wikis in one workspace. Pricing: free plan; paid per-member plans. Here are 3 free options that cover the same job.
| Alternative | Type | Platforms | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
AppFlowy | Open source | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | A Notion-style workspace you can self-host | Get it |
AFFiNE | Open source | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux | Docs and whiteboards together | Get it |
Joplin | Open source | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Private Markdown notes with end-to-end encrypted sync | Get it |
NotionThe paid original | Free plan; paid per-member plans | – | Notes and wikis | Visit |
The alternatives in detail
02/ AFFiNE
Best for: Docs and whiteboards together.
Runs on: Web, Windows, macOS, Linux
Visit AFFiNE03/ Joplin
Best for: Private Markdown notes with end-to-end encrypted sync.
Runs on: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
Visit JoplinFrequently asked questions
Is there a free alternative to Notion?
Yes. AppFlowy is a strong free option for a notion-style workspace you can self-host. Other choices include AFFiNE, Joplin.
Which Notion alternative is open source?
AppFlowy, AFFiNE, Joplin are open source.