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Comparison · Note-taking apps

Joplin vs Logseq: which is better in 2026?

Joplin87.0#4 in best note-taking appsLogseq84.0#6 in best note-taking apps

Joplin ranks higher in our list of note-taking apps (#4 against #6, score 87.0 against 84.0).

How we rank Share

  • 87.0
    Editorial score
    84.0
  • 6
    Platforms
    3
  • Yes
    Free to use
    Yes
  • Yes
    Open source
    Yes

Which should you choose?

Choose Joplin if you want

Open-source notes with end-to-end encrypted sync.

The open-source choice here, AGPL-licensed, covering desktop, mobile and terminal with end-to-end encrypted sync. Its interface is plainer than the commercial apps, and sharing runs through Joplin Cloud.

Choose Logseq if you want

Linked outlines and daily journals on the desktop.

An open-source outliner for linked notes and a daily journal, released under AGPL-3.0. Its README marks the database version and mobile app as beta or alpha, so Obsidian and Joplin are steadier for daily notes.

The main differences

  • Only Joplin runs on iOS.
  • Only Joplin runs on Android.

Side by side

JoplinLogseq
Score87.084.0
Rank in list#4 of 12#6 of 12
PriceFree and open sourceFree and open source; Joplin Cloud is an optional hosted serviceFree and open sourceFree and open source under AGPL-3.0
Free to useYesYes
Open sourceYesYes
PlatformsWindowsmacOSLinuxAndroidiOSCommand lineWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Command lineWindowsmacOSLinuxWindows, macOS, Linux
Made byLaurent CozicNot stated
Notes storedLocal, optional syncLocal, on your device
Shared editingYesNo
Best forOpen-source notes with end-to-end encrypted syncLinked outlines and daily journals on the desktop
Strengths
  • Open source under the AGPL license
  • End-to-end encrypted sync
  • Outliner with linked, reusable blocks
  • Plugin API for extensions
Limits
  • Sharing and publishing rely on Joplin Cloud
  • Fewer built-in features than commercial note apps
  • Database version and mobile app are beta or alpha
  • The outliner takes time to learn
LinksVisit site Visit site

Questions about Joplin vs Logseq

Is Joplin better than Logseq?
Joplin ranks higher in our list of note-taking apps (#4 against #6, score 87.0 against 84.0). Joplin is best for: open-source notes with end-to-end encrypted sync. Logseq is best for: linked outlines and daily journals on the desktop.
Which is cheaper, Joplin or Logseq?
Joplin: Free and open source; Joplin Cloud is an optional hosted service. Logseq: Free and open source under AGPL-3.0.
Do Joplin and Logseq run on the same platforms?
Joplin supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Command line. Logseq supports Windows, macOS, Linux.

Choosing between the two

Learning Center
1:17Beginner · 4 min readHow to decide between two good optionsSettle a close call by sorting it by how hard it is to undo, setting a deadline, scoring the criteria as a tie-breaker and writing down why you chose.1:20Beginner · 6 min readHow to compare products fairly: what to keep in mindDefine the job, cap the must-haves, compare like with like, count total cost over one period and weigh the criteria. Includes a worked example.

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