SiYuan
Free, open-source, local-first note-taking and knowledge app with block-level links, flashcards and databases, plus paid sync options.
SiYuan is a free, open-source note-taking and knowledge app that stores your notes locally and links them at the block level. Local use costs nothing; you pay only for sync, with PRO Features at $96 one-time (currently offered at $64) or a lifetime cloud seat at $296 (offered at $148 for limited seats). Refunds are not available.
Excellent free local-first notes; read the sync pricing carefully before paying.
A free, open-source, local-first knowledge base where every block can be linked, embedded and reviewed as a flashcard.
SiYuan is one of the most complete free PKM apps: block references, databases, flashcards and a graph come built in, and everything runs offline. Paying is only about sync, and you can avoid it with your own WebDAV or S3 through PRO Features. The trade-offs are the JSON storage format, an 8GB cap on official sync, and pricing that currently shows offers and limited lifetime seats with no refunds. Use the built-in trial before buying.
Deep, free feature set with local storage, open code and encrypted sync.
JSON storage instead of plain Markdown, 8GB official sync cap, offer-led pricing and no refunds.
SiYuan plans and prices
| Plan | Regular price | Current offer | What it adds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | n/a | All basic functions, local storage, no account needed |
| PRO Features | $96 one-time | $64 one-time | Sync and backup through your own S3 or WebDAV storage (Nutstore not supported) |
| Subscription (8GB cloud) | $296 lifetime seat | $148 for limited seats | 8GB official cloud sync and backup, cloud asset hosting, Cloud Inbox, plus PRO Features |
From SiYuan's English pricing page and its price-adjustment post, checked 4 October 2026. The post says the $148 price covers the next 98 of 226 lifetime seats. The pricing FAQ still mentions an annual subscription, and the Chinese page lists an annual plan, so confirm the plan type at checkout. Refunds are not available.
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