Home / Alternatives to Evernote / Evernote vs Joplin

Evernote vs Joplin

A side-by-side look at Evernote (the paid SaaS) and Joplin (the open source alternative). Use this page to decide if the switch fits your team and workflow.

Evernote Joplin
Tagline Classic note-taking and web-clipper. Open source Evernote alternative with markdown notes and end-to-end encryption.
License Proprietary SaaS AGPL-3.0
Pricing Free tier (now limited to 50 notes); Personal from $14.99/month. Free to self-host · optional paid hosted plan
Self-host option No Yes — difficulty 2/5
Hosted cloud available Yes (only option) Yes
Desktop apps Varies by product Windows, macOS, Linux
Mobile apps Official apps typically available iOS, Android
Ad slot — between tables

Best for

The natural Evernote replacement with web clipper and sync.

Joplin strengths

  • End-to-end encryption for syncable notes.
  • Works with Nextcloud, Dropbox, WebDAV and Joplin Cloud.
  • Web clipper and mobile apps available.

Joplin weaknesses

  • Interface can feel basic compared to Notion-style tools.
  • Plugin ecosystem is smaller than Obsidian's.
  • Sync conflicts occasionally need manual resolution.

What's the catch with Evernote?

  • Free tier has become heavily restricted.
  • Price increases have frustrated long-time users.
  • Syncing and search performance complaints.

Still unsure?

Check the full list of alternatives to Evernote: see Evernote alternatives, or learn more about Joplin on its project page.