Bear is a markdown-focused note app with cross-note links and hashtag-based organization, syncing via iCloud across Apple devices. Users praise its functionality and Markdown support, though some worry about privacy concerns.
Obsidian ranks as the top Bear alternative, built for non-linear thinking with wiki-style links and a graph view for users building a personal knowledge graph. Standard Notes addresses privacy concerns with end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and encrypted backups that go beyond Bear's core feature set. Anytype emphasizes offline work with encrypted storage plus peer-to-peer syncing across devices.
The alternatives landscape spans local-first knowledge-graph tools, encrypted privacy apps, and wiki-style organizers. Zoho Notebook stands out by mixing note types inside notebooks, including voice recordings, images, and plain notes for multimedia-focused users.
Bear is a note-taking app, but users have filtering options across multiple dimensions. Open source transparency comes through Standard Notes, Notesnook, and Zettlr, often paired with offline access and privacy-focused features.
Cross-platform users switching between Mac, Windows, and Linux can rely on Obsidian, Standard Notes, and Notesnook while keeping Markdown-centric workflows. For web access, Standard Notes, Evernote, and Notesnook include browser-based versions for working from anywhere. Users wanting data control can self-host Standard Notes and Outline on their own infrastructure.
Mobile-first note takers who capture ideas on the go have strong options in Anytype, Standard Notes, and Notesnook with Android and iPhone support. Wiki-style organization through Zim and VNote creates personal wiki experiences for users building interconnected knowledge bases.
Canada
Switzerland
Pakistan
Italy
EU
Germany
Netherlands
Singapore
Estonia
France
Very complicated interface