Notes Fort Knox: Meet The 10 Most Secure Note-Taking Apps
A secure note-taking app keeps your notes end-to-end encrypted, gets its code out in the open where it can be audited, and syncs across devices without handing the decryption keys to the provider. The nine ranked apps below meet that bar, with Joplin, Standard Notes, Notesnook, and Obsidian leading the pack, plus a do-it-yourself setup built on Cryptomator.
The notes we jot down are our private thoughts that deserve to be encrypted in a secure, digital notebook. We shouldn't worry about who might read them. Like most users, I made the mistake of using whatever pre-installed app was on my smartphone. I've used Google Keep and my iPhone Notes app, but I needed to make a change. What are the best secure note-taking apps?
Etherpad
Standard Notes
Turtl
Joplin
Obsidian
NextCloud + Notes
HedgeDoc
SilentNotes
Notesnook
BONUS: DIY Method
I tested each of these notebook apps and included reasons why they're better than their closed-source, make-a-buck-with-my-data services. Take a look at the pros and cons.
Wait! First, here's the judgement criteria:
Security & Privacy. How is data stored, transmitted/sync-ed, and encrypted?
Open Source. Is the code available for programmers to review and audit?
User Experience. Does the app have a pleasant and modern look and feel?
Ease-of-Use. Is typing, editing, and formatting easy? Are the menus and settings clear?
Features. Are there enough features to handle the average user's needs?
Cross-Platform. Can you take notes as easily on a laptop, tablet, or smartphone?
Data Synchronization. Is data backed up and/or sync-ed across multiple devices?
Technical Know-How. Is the software hard to get installed, set up, and running?
1. Etherpad - Google Docs Alternative
Pros
Etherpad is a web-based note app, allowing multiple users to edit notes at the same time. Users simply go to a private URL address in their favorite browser and begin taking notes. Individual colors separate per-user edits. On-screen chat provides an extra layer of collaboration.
Versions are continuously tracked and note history can be played back like video.
The newest user interface provides a clean and minimalist experience, and the time-to-first-note is unbeatable when using a hosted instance. The project maintains a list of hosted instances, with some explanations about the organization and caveats to each.
Etherpad is federated, which means you can download and install it on your web server. This gives you maximum control over data security.
Cons
Etherpad's code has gone through a few rewrites, and as with many open-source projects, it contains technical debt (old, bad, or unused code).
Etherpad does not encrypt pad content on your device. There is no client-side end-to-end encryption built in, so the security of your notes depends entirely on whoever hosts the instance you use. On a server you control, that's you. On a public hosted instance, that's a stranger's sysadmin.
The web-based-only interface means that the average user will need to rely on someone else to host a server, entrusting the server owner to keep their data safe and backed up. When testing on a mobile web browser, I was disconnected several times, hinting that this might not be a good offering for the on-the-go user.
While the project is simple to use, there's not a lot of documentation and the community is small in comparison to other projects.
The average user will find the biggest hurdle in adoption is the lack of features.
How Etherpad Stacks Up
This note-taking app has more in common with Google Docs than an alternative to Google Keep or Evernote. It has some unique capabilities that might suffice for the casual note-taker, but will leave the more-serious users wanting better functionality.
2. Standard Notes - Secure Notes With Lots Of Features
Pros
Standard Notes prides itself as a privacy- and security-centric note app. It is now part of Proton, the company behind Proton Mail, and the source code for all the platforms is on GitHub for code review.
The software does an impressive job of providing a clean and bright interface across its desktop and mobile app versions. The user experience is well-thought-out and logical, with menuing and clear settings. The web-based version performs very well.
The on-ramp is surprisingly short and fast from installation to your first note, which required no upfront account creation or keying.
Standard Notes also offers mobile apps (which I found user-friendly) from both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store
Cons
Standard Notes falls short in out-of-the-box features. Additional functionality comes from a variety of extensions that the user must install on each platform. Even formatting text inside notes or attaching images is not supported until an extension is added to the app.
Using extensions requires a paid Standard Notes plan. The Productivity plan costs $90 per year and unlocks the Super note editor with formatting, spreadsheets, and folders. The Professional plan costs $120 per year and adds 100 GB of encrypted file storage. Don't expect a free trial. Standard Notes does not run one. Instead, the company offers a 14-day 100% refund window on the Productivity plan (90 days on Professional), so you can test the paid tiers risk-free.
How Standard Note Stacks Up
Aside from the enhanced security and privacy of your data, users coming from Google Keep or Evernote will find even the features a large step backward.
3. Turtl - Notes App With A Version For Each OS
Pros
Turtl is a rather functional notebook. The developers have done an excellent job securely storing and synchronizing your note data.
This note-taking app provides several note types, reminiscent of the paradigm found in a password manager. One of the note types is labeled as "password".
The desktop and mobile apps look identical, so users will feel at home with either client.
Cons
Turtl's installation is fairly straightforward on Windows and mobile devices. Users on Mac and Linux will need to first unarchive the downloads and go through a manual installation.
You'll need to create or log in to an account before taking your first note. While this is a familiar process, the developer devotes a whole step during sign-up to point out that there's no password recovery option. This can be a bit off-putting for some.
There is still no web-based version. The Turtl downloads page lists desktop apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux plus an Android app on Google Play, and the iOS app is still marked "coming soon" there. Turtl is honest about that gap, and its client-side encryption syncs against the Turtl server.
There are no buttons to apply formatting to your notes. Users need to use the GitHub Markdown guide for formatting. Here's a short video showing the super basics of Markdown formatting.
How Turtl Stacks Up
Turtl provides a way to format plain-text notes and some additional organizing options, but it too is not as full-featured as Evernote. I found most of the options I needed to replicate Google Keep.
4. Joplin
Pros
Joplin is the next step-up in cross-platform note-taking apps. The software provides text formatting buttons, drag-and-drop capabilities, and even a web clipping browser extension.
Users have notes organized in notebooks, which themselves can be organized into a hierarchy in the sidebar. Global search, templates, and import/export are snappy and provide a lot of flexibility.
Data backup and multi-device synchronization occur through a connected local directory, OneDrive, NextCloud, Dropbox, WebDAV (generic web storage), or Joplin Cloud, the project's own paid sync service. Once you enable end-to-end encryption (E2EE) in settings, all data is encrypted on your device before it's transmitted and stored remotely.
Cons
Joplin scores well on its security, except for an issue tracker about data stored unencrypted & without a password while on your local device. This might be a deal-killer if you're looking for the most secure note-taking option. It's worth noting the project added biometric authentication when launching the app.
E2EE is opt-in, not automatic. You'll need to go into the Joplin settings to create an encryption password. The application does not prompt you to turn on encryption during setup. Here's how to create a strong and secure password.
The user experience is utilitarian, and the what-you-see-is-what-you-get (WYSIWYG) editor functions well and converts to Markdown well enough. Joplin's note tagging is functional, but clunky and lacks the multi-tag capability.
How Joplin Stacks Up
Joplin takes note (pun intended) of the organization from Evernote, but the user experience is basic. Users have some visual formatting buttons, but using Markdown is needed to be fully productive.
Just like Turtl above, don't let Markdown scare you.
This is my favorite secure notes app, especially since it gives me access to my notebook across multiple platforms and devices.
Tip: Be sure to click the Synchronize button and wait before you close the app to make sure your notes are sent to your chosen, preferably free cloud storage.
5. Obsidian - Is Obsidian Secure Enough For Private Notes?
Pros
Obsidian takes a different approach from every app above. Your notes live as plain Markdown files in a folder on your own device, and Obsidian is just the editor on top. No account is required to start, and no data leaves your device unless you point it somewhere. The company states plainly that its apps store data locally, collect no telemetry, and never sell user data.
That local-first model means you own the files outright. Backups, migration, and a change of mind later all stay in your hands.
Obsidian Sync, the optional paid sync service, costs $4 per user per month billed annually and secures your notes with AES-256 end-to-end encryption plus version history, according to the Obsidian pricing page.
Cons
Obsidian is not end-to-end encrypted out of the box. Encryption only arrives when you pay for Obsidian Sync. Plain files on a single device are as secure as that device, which is the same caveat Joplin carries.
The third-party plugin ecosystem is a real attack surface. Community plugins run arbitrary code inside the app with access to your vault, so a malicious plugin can read every note you own. Vet what you install.
How Obsidian Stacks Up
Obsidian is the pick for people who want local files they own first and encrypted synchronization as an option they pay for. Skip the plugin store if you're chasing the smallest attack surface, and the app becomes about as private as note-taking gets.
6. NextCloud + Notes - Keep Notes Safe On Your Server
Pros
NextCloud is an open-source collection of software that replicates productivity offerings from "big tech". The techie, DIYer uses their server to host services like file storage (replaces Dropbox), calendar and contact organization (replacing Google), and even chat and video conferencing through a set of add-on apps.
The NextCloud Notes app added to your NextCloud server provides a basic set of note-taking functionality, including synchronization with mobile apps.
The clean, productivity-focused user interface/experience centers around simple categorized notes formatted in Markdown.
In addition to categories, star-favoriting and integrated search round out this app add-on.
The security of NextCloud and thus your notes rely on the level of control, security, and encryption of the server as a federated project.
Cons
NextCloud and the Notes app require a tech-savvy enthusiast to set up and run. This level of experience and responsibility might not match the average user's requirements.
How NextCloud + Notes Stacks Up
The Notes app under Nextcloud is a great alternative to Google Keep. It falls short in replicating the features of Evernote.
If you are tech-savvy, you should consider switching to a smartphone keyboard that respects your privacy so your notes and everything you type on your phone is more secure.
7. HedgeDoc - Self-Hosted Web-Based Docs For Your Notes
Pros
HedgeDoc (formerly CodiMD) is a collaborative notes web app allowing users to create and share Markdown-based docs via public links.
This editor is federated. You'll need to find a hosted instance or run your own instance, which will give you greater control of your data.
The clean, minimalistic UI allows for dark and light themes and a presentation mode. A toolbar gives quick formatting help for users just getting started with Markdown during editing, and drag and drop is supported and well-implemented.
The free and open-source software (FOSS) project is under active development and there's a supportive community of enthusiasts.
Cons
Once published, your notes cannot be unshared and those with the link to the files will continue to be able to view and edit the file.
How HedgeDoc Stacks Up
HedgeDoc fulfills a particular niche for users wanting a wide-open document collaboration tool. The development team has a clear use case around this offering and sticks to a target audience by providing this competent markdown editor.
8. SilentNotes - FOSS Version Of Google Keep
Pros
SilentNotes is another excellent choice for end-to-end encrypted notes. This free and open-source software (FOSS) offering has a committed developer with active project improvements.
The apps offer synchronization via 5 online storage services. User notebooks can stay updated between Windows computers and Android smartphone devices.
Notes can also move in and out of Joplin. SilentNotes added a Joplin (.jex) importer and exporter in version 8.7.0, according to the project's GitHub releases page, so your notes are never locked into the app.
The WYSIWYG editor on both platforms is solid and among the better implementations, I've seen, especially for mobile.
SilentNotes actually feels most like Google Keep's sticky note user interface, offering the same types of notes.
Cons
There are no Mac, Linux, or iOS app versions expected.
Encryption has limits you should understand. Notes synchronized to online storage are encrypted in transit and at rest, but unprotected notes sitting on your device are stored in readable form unless you move them into the app's safe, which encrypts them with your own password. SilentNotes documents that split on its security page.
How SilentNotes Stacks Up
Users that primarily work on Windows and Android operating systems will find SilentNotes a good fit.
9. Notesnook - Looking For A Free Encrypted Notes App?
Pros
Notesnook is the strongest fit in this list for anyone who wants encryption switched on from the first note. The app is open source under GPLv3, both the client and the sync server, and notes are end-to-end encrypted by default with no setting to hunt for.
The free plan allows unlimited notes on unlimited devices. Paid tiers exist for people who need more attachment storage. The Essential plan costs $1.99 per month and the Pro plan costs $6.99 per month, with a 14-day free trial on both, according to the Notesnook pricing page.
Notesnook runs everywhere. Native apps cover Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and the web, and importers pull your notes across from Evernote, Google Keep, and Obsidian. The company even offers Vericrypt, a tool that lets you verify your notes are encrypted the way the company claims.
Cons
The free plan caps attachment storage at 50 MB per month and file uploads at 10 MB. Notes are fine. Files are the constraint.
Notesnook is younger than the veterans on this list. A shorter track record is a fair trade-off to weigh against its clean encryption defaults.
How Notesnook Stacks Up
Notesnook covers the ground the average user cares about, fast onboarding, encryption that is on by default, and real apps on every platform, without asking for a credit card first. It replaced Evernote-style convenience with private defaults rather than paid unlocks.
10. BONUS: Secure & Sync Your Note Files
Pros
For the tech-savvy, consider simply storing your notes into folders and files on your device. You can securely synchronize them using Cryptomator and any free online storage provider of your choosing.
This method also allows you the flexibility to use whatever editor you decide without being locked into a particular app or dealing with subscription plans.
Cons
Notes are only encrypted while they travel to and sit in your cloud storage. On a smartphone or tablet, the vault is not treated as an actively mounted storage location, so you open your notes through the Cryptomator app rather than seeing the folder as a normal drive the way you do on desktop.
This approach can be clunky with lots of moving parts to get working smoothly.
How the DIY Approach Stacks Up
The DIY approach will not be for the average user who wants to take notes and stay productive. There's value to having your tool(s) work for you instead of you working on your tools.
Other Questions You Might Have
Is the iPhone notes app secure?
The iOS Notes app contains a "Lock Note" function, which encrypts individual notes with a passphrase. According to Apple's Platform Security guide, locked notes on iCloud accounts are protected with end-to-end encryption, tightly securing user notes across devices and iCloud storage.
How do you encrypt iPhone notes?
On the iOS Notes app select the "Lock Note" option and enter a unique password & password hint as described by Apple's support page. For Android users, Google Keep does not currently have an encrypt option. Install a third-party notes app like Joplin or use your password manager to a secure note.
Can Apple read my notes?
Apple's iCloud notes and your iPhone Notes app on iOS are stored encrypted on Apple's servers and covered by their privacy policy. For extra security, use the "Lock Note" option and set a password + hint. This adds another layer of privacy, preventing Apple from reading your notes.
Is Evernote private and secure?
Evernote offers encryption and optional two-factor authentication, enhancing its security for storing personal information. However, text within notes is not end-to-end encrypted by default, so sensitive information may be accessible by the service.
