NoteGen

NoteGen is an open-source AI Markdown note-taking app that captures raw records and organizes them into notes.

NoteGen is an open-source AI Markdown note-taking application designed for capturing text, voice, images, and source material first and organizing them later. Users can store notes locally by default and sync plain files across devices using OneDrive, iCloud Drive, Git, object storage, or a self-hosted NoteGen Server. The app features an infinite canvas to draw, connect nodes, and generate charts, flowcharts, and Mermaid diagrams. An AI agent searches local knowledge, reads files, and writes answers back to files. It also includes collapsible tag groups, on-demand filters, and a standard Markdown file workspace supporting tables, math, and extensions via plugins.

NoteGen at a glance

Best for: Writer, Researcher, Student
Runs on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Pricing: Free
Released: August 2024
Category: AI productivity tool
Website: notegen.top

Key features

Capture text, voice, screenshots, and files into one stream
Organize scattered records into notes using AI
Draw on an infinite canvas with free connections and auto layout
Generate charts, flowcharts, and Mermaid diagrams
Use an AI agent that searches local knowledge and files
Edit standard Markdown files with tabs and a file tree
Sync plain files via OneDrive, iCloud Drive, Git, or self-hosted server
Extend functionality with custom plugins for different workspaces

Use it for

Capture raw ideas and source materials without sorting immediately
Map research and workflows on an infinite canvas
Write reports, articles, and project documents from saved records
Sync notes and collaborate using a self-hosted server

Alternatives to NoteGen

Reflect Open — Owns all data as plain Markdown files without proprietary database formats.
Clipnote — Saves AI chats instantly and shares them via a public URL.
Surf — It combines local data storage with flexible AI model integration.
EdgeEver — Run it on Cloudflare for free or self-host it via Docker with full privacy.
Basic Memory — Stores data in local Markdown files that remain accessible and readable by any AI.
IWE — Works natively across Mac apps, text editors, terminal CLI, and MCP servers.
Syncnote Community — Connects personal records and tasks with an AI assistant and research tools.
Docling — Provides advanced PDF understanding and local execution for sensitive data.
MarkItDown — Converts documents into LLM-friendly Markdown for better token efficiency.
Smart Connections — Finds related notes locally by default without requiring an API key.
AudioNotes — Processes audio and video files locally to ensure data privacy.
Earnote — Local transcription and AI generation keep recordings and data private on device.

All NoteGen alternatives