The web-based-only interface means that the average user will need to rely on someone else to host a server entrusting the server owner to keep their data safe and backed up. ConsĮtherpad’s code has gone through a few rewrites, and as with many open-source projects, it contains technical debt (old, bad, or unused code). This gives you maximum control over data security. The project maintains a list of hosted instances with some explanations about the organization and caveats to each.Įtherpad is federated which means you can download and install it on your web server. The newest user interface provides a clean and minimalist experience and the time-to-first-note is unbeatable when using a hosted instance. Versions are continuously tracked and note history can be played back like video. On-screen chat provides an extra layer of collaboration. Individual colors separate per-user edits. Users simply go to a private URL address in their favorite browser and begin taking notes. Etherpad – Google Docs Alternative ProsĮtherpad is a web-based note app offering the ability of multiple users to edit notes at the same time. Technical Know-How: Is the software hard to get installed, set up, and running? 1.Data Synchronization: Is data backed up and/or sync-ed across multiple devices?.Cross-Platform: Can you take notes as easily on a laptop, tablet, or smartphone?.Features: Are there enough features to handle the average user’s needs?.Ease-of-Use: Is typing, editing, and formating easy? Are the menus and settings clear?.User Experience: Does the app have a pleasant and modern look and feel?.Open Source: Is the code available for programmers to review and audit?.

Security & Privacy: How is data stored, transmitted/sync-ed, and encrypted?.I’ve reviewed each of these notebook apps and included reasons why they’re better than their closed-source, make-a-buck-with-my-data services. What are the best secure note-taking apps? I’ve used Google Keep and my iPhone Notes app, but I needed to make a change. Like most users, I made the mistake of using whatever pre-installed app was on my smartphone. We shouldn’t worry about who might read them. The notes we jot down are our private thoughts that deserve to be encrypted in a secure, digital notebook.

Free notes app