Obsidian
Obsidian
Best for: Productivity for people who want a checked, free option.
Obsidian is a local-first note-taking app built on plain markdown files: your notes live on your own disk, linked into a graph, extendable through one of the largest community-plugin ecosystems (including community AI plugins).
The core app is, in the provider's words, "Free without limits. No sign-up required." Paid add-ons are optional: Sync $4/month (annual) or $5 monthly, Publish $8/$10, and a one-time Catalyst license; commercial use is $50/user/year.
It fits researchers, writers, and privacy-minded users who want their notes in plain files with no vendor lock-in — and tinkerers who want to bolt AI plugins onto their own vault.
To begin, download the app from obsidian.md and open a folder of markdown files; no account is needed for the core app.
The honest limits. AI is not built in — it arrives via community plugins of varying quality, and sync between devices is a paid add-on. Not used first-hand; confirm at obsidian.md/pricing.
Pros and cons
What's good
- Free to use.
- A Productivity option from Obsidian.
Worth knowing
- Check the provider's current pricing and limits before you rely on it.
How to get started
- 1Open Obsidian's site with the Get Access button on this page.
- 2Create an account if prompted, then start with the free option.
- 3Come back for other checked tools if it is not the right fit.
FAQ
Is Obsidian free?
Obsidian is free — you can start using it at no cost. See the provider for current limits and any paid upgrades.
Who makes Obsidian?
Obsidian is provided by Obsidian.
What is Obsidian used for?
Local-first markdown notes with linking and plugins — the core app is free without limits, and no account is required.
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