The Search for a Better Note-Taking Solution

For years, Google Keep was my go-to for jotting down quick notes and managing to-do lists, thanks to its simplicity and seamless integration with the Google ecosystem. But as my tasks became more complex, I quickly ran into its limitations.

Desiring a richer text editor and enhanced organizational features without sacrificing privacy, I set out to find an alternative, leading me to Joplin.

Native Apps That Enhance Productivity

One of the most noticeable advantages of Joplin is its dedicated desktop applications for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Unlike Google Keep, which offers only a web solution that feels more like a browser window than a proper app, Joplin provides a native experience.

As I dive deeper into self-hosting tools, having a robust Linux app from Joplin has been a significant boon.

Offline Access Like Never Before

Joplin operates on an offline-first principle, allowing me to create and edit notes anytime, whether I’m on a plane or at a café without Wi-Fi. Once I reconnect to the internet, it automatically syncs my updates to my chosen cloud storage.

In contrast, Google Keep limits offline access to mobile apps, making it less suitable for desktop use.

Advanced Formatting Features

Where Google Keep's formatting capabilities are rudimentary, Joplin embraces Markdown, offering a full-featured formatting toolbar. This allows easy access to headings, lists, and code blocks.

By supporting Markdown, my notes stay futureproof. If Joplin were to shut down, I could still access my notes with any Markdown editor, unlike the limitations of Google Keep's formatting.

Your Data, Your Choice

A significant differentiator for Joplin is the flexibility in data storage. Google Keep confines my notes to its servers without options.

Joplin turns this around, offering choices for storage and synchronization. I can connect it to existing cloud services like OneDrive or Dropbox, or even self-host with services like Nextcloud. My notes remain encrypted and secured exactly where I want them.

Exceptional Organization and Task Management

When it comes to organization, Joplin blows Google Keep out of the water. While Google Keep offers only basic labels, Joplin allows for notebooks and tags, akin to Evernote.

I can even create sub-notebooks for specifics, like ‘Self-hosting’ with various categories. Additionally, Joplin includes a practical task management feature with checkboxes, helping me keep track of to-dos—though it doesn’t compete with dedicated apps.

Unlocking Potential with Plugins

If the built-in features of Joplin aren’t enough, it supports plugins for further customization. Being open-source adds another layer of trust as I know there aren’t hidden backdoors.

Farewell to Google Keep

In exploring alternatives to Google Keep, I tested several apps, including Bundled Notes and Notesnook. However, the lack of a native desktop app in Bundled Notes and paywall features in Notesnook pushed me towards Joplin.

While Joplin isn't flawless—its UI feels dated, and I hope for home widgets in future updates—it's the only app that meets all my needs. If you’re in the market for a note-taking app, give Joplin a try.