Standard Notes as a Linux alternative to Anytype
Updated
Our verdict
Standard Notes can replace Anytype for users who only need a secure, encrypted note‑taking tool and are okay with a flat text or markdown format. It does not provide block‑based editing, drag‑and‑drop, or an object‑oriented data model, so power users who rely on those features will find it lacking. For privacy‑focused note keepers, it is a solid choice.
- License
- AGPL-3.0-only
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 3.202.10 (October 17, 2026)
- Rating
- —

What works the same
- Cross‑platform sync
- Offline access
- Tagging system
- End‑to‑end encryption
- Open‑source code
What is different
- No block‑based editing or drag‑and‑drop
- No object‑oriented linking between items
- No built‑in export of Anytype’s block structure
- Limited formatting compared to Anytype’s rich block editor
- No local‑first database with export options
Opening your Anytype files
Anytype stores data in a proprietary local‑first format that is not directly readable by Standard Notes. There is no official export to Markdown or plain text from Anytype that would import cleanly into Standard Notes. Users would need to manually copy content or use a third‑party export tool if available.
Switching from Anytype to Standard Notes, step by step
- Export Anytype notes to Markdown or plain text (if possible).
- Open Standard Notes and create a new note for each exported file.
- Copy the exported content into the new Standard Notes entries.
- Add tags to organize notes in Standard Notes.
- Enable passcode or fingerprint lock for added security.
- Backup Standard Notes data via its sync service.
Key features of Standard Notes
- End‑to‑end encrypted sync across all devices
- Unlimited notes and devices
- Offline access
- Tagging and pinning
- Passcode and fingerprint lock
- Open‑source code
- Free tier with optional paid extensions
How to install Standard Notes on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.standardnotes.standardnotesFrequently asked questions
Is Standard Notes free for all features?
Standard Notes offers a free tier with unlimited notes, devices, and basic features. Advanced extensions like advanced editors or themes require a paid subscription.
Can I sync Standard Notes across Linux and Windows?
Yes. Standard Notes syncs securely across all platforms, including Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and web browsers.
Does Standard Notes support drag‑and‑drop editing?
No. Standard Notes uses a simple text editor; it does not support block‑based drag‑and‑drop editing like Anytype.