JoplinLinux
vs
Microsoft LoopWindows
Joplin as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Loop
Updated
Our verdict
Joplin is a solid replacement for individual knowledge workers who need offline-first note-taking, but it is not a drop-in swap for Microsoft Loop. It lacks real-time collaborative editing, which is Loop's core function. If your team relies on simultaneous editing of shared documents, Joplin will fail you. However, if you primarily use Loop for personal notes, to-do lists, and static content sharing, Joplin offers a robust, encrypted, and open-source alternative that works well across Linux, Windows, and mobile devices.
- License
- AGPL-3.0-or-later
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 3.7.21 (September 25, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Supports rich text formatting via Markdown
- Organizes content into hierarchical notebooks or folders
- Cross-platform availability including Linux, Windows, and mobile
- Syncs data across multiple cloud providers
- Includes to-do list functionality
What is different
- No real-time collaborative editing; Joplin is single-user per session
- No integrated calendar or task manager components
- No reusable 'blocks' that can be shared across documents
- Sync relies on third-party services or manual file sync, not native cloud collaboration
- No native integration with Microsoft 365 ecosystem tools
Opening your Microsoft Loop files
Joplin does not natively open Microsoft Loop files. Loop documents are stored in a proprietary cloud format. To migrate, you must export your Loop content to PDF, HTML, or plain text/Markdown from the Loop interface first. Joplin can then import plain Markdown files or convert HTML content during import. There is no direct plugin or converter for .loop files, so manual export and re-import is the only viable path.
Switching from Microsoft Loop to Joplin, step by step
- Export your Microsoft Loop documents to Markdown or HTML files
- Install Joplin on your Linux system via Flathub or package manager
- Create a new notebook in Joplin to organize the imported content
- Use Joplin's import function to load the exported Markdown or HTML files
- Configure a sync method like Nextcloud or Dropbox for cross-device access
- Verify that formatting and attachments transferred correctly
Key features of Joplin
- Markdown‑based notes with live preview
- Notebook hierarchy and tag system
- Import from Evernote (.enex) and plain Markdown
- Sync via Nextcloud, Dropbox, OneDrive, WebDAV or local folder
- Web clipper extensions for Firefox and Chrome
- End‑to‑end encryption option
- Desktop, terminal and mobile clients
- Export to PDF, HTML or raw Markdown
How to install Joplin on Linux
flatpak install flathub net.cozic.joplin_desktopFrequently asked questions
Can I edit a Joplin note with my team in real time?
No. Joplin is designed for individual use. While you can share exported files, it does not support simultaneous live editing like Microsoft Loop.
Does Joplin work offline?
Yes. Joplin stores data locally on your device first. You can create and edit notes without an internet connection, and changes sync when you reconnect.
Is Joplin secure?
Yes. Joplin offers end-to-end encryption for notes and sync data. This means your content is encrypted before it leaves your device, adding a layer of privacy not always present in standard cloud sync.
