At a Glance:
Beaver Notes is a privacy-first, local-first note-taking app with Markdown support, tagging, folders, note linking, optional encrypted notes, and user-controlled sync across macOS, Windows, and Linux.
Overview:
Beaver Notes is a local-first note-taking application built for users who want to capture ideas, organize knowledge, and connect notes while keeping data on their device by default. It stores all information locally and offers optional sync through a provider chosen by the user. The app supports Markdown formatting, tagging, folder-based organization, and note linking. A locked notes feature provides encrypted storage for sensitive content. Beaver Notes runs on macOS, Windows, and GNU/Linux, with a mobile version in beta testing for iOS and Android. The project is community-driven and open-source.
Key Decision Points:
Local-first by default: All data stays on the device and is not sent to any cloud service unless the user explicitly configures their own sync provider.
Cross-platform desktop support: Native installers and packages are available for macOS, Windows, and GNU/Linux, including Flatpak, AUR, Scoop, and Homebrew.
Optional user-controlled sync: Users can choose their preferred cloud provider or work entirely offline without being locked into a vendor.
Mobile access via separate app: A beta companion app called Beaver Pocket is available for iOS through TestFlight and Android through the Play Store.
Core Features:
Local-first data storage: Notes remain on the device by default with no automatic cloud upload.
Markdown support: Write and format notes using Markdown syntax.
Tags: Apply tags to notes for quick organization and retrieval.
Folders: Group notes into structured folder collections.
Note linking: Create connections between related notes.
Locked notes: Protect individual notes with encryption.
Use Cases:
Users who want a note-taking app that keeps all data local and does not require cloud accounts.
People who need Markdown writing, tagging, folders, and note linking to organize personal knowledge.
Users who want the option to set up their own sync provider rather than relying on built-in cloud storage.
Open-Source Alternative Value:
Beaver Notes provides an open-source option for local-first note-taking with Markdown writing and encrypted notes. It is distributable through multiple platform packages and can be installed directly on macOS, Windows, and Linux. Users who prefer to control sync can configure their own cloud provider, making it relevant for those who want to avoid mandatory cloud storage while still having optional sync. The project accepts community contributions and has an active set of contributors involved in translation, development, and design work.
