Obsidian
Transform your notes into a connected knowledge base with Obsidian's flexible workflows.
About Obsidian
Obsidian is a powerful note-taking application designed to help users organize their thoughts, ideas, and knowledge in a flexible and private manner. Unlike traditional note-taking apps, Obsidian allows users to create a network of interconnected notes, making it easier to visualize relationships between ideas and concepts. This unique approach transforms the way individuals think and work with information, enabling them to build a second brain that grows and evolves with their learning journey. By storing notes locally on the user's device, Obsidian ensures that your thoughts remain private and accessible even when offline, giving you complete control over your intellectual property. At the core of Obsidian's functionality is its ability to create links between notes, allowing users to build a personal knowledge base that resembles a wiki. This interconnected structure not only facilitates quick retrieval of information but also encourages deeper understanding by revealing patterns and connections that may not be immediately apparent. The app's graph view provides a visual representation of these relationships, allowing users to explore their notes in an engaging and interactive way. Whether you're brainstorming ideas, conducting research, or managing projects, Obsidian's innovative linking system enhances the creative process and fosters critical thinking. Obsidian is also highly customizable, with thousands of plugins and themes available to tailor the app to individual workflows. This flexibility allows users to adapt the software to their unique thinking styles, whether they are writers, researchers, or project managers. The Canvas feature, for instance, provides a limitless space for brainstorming and diagramming, enabling users to visually organize their ideas in a way that makes sense to them. This adaptability is a significant advantage for those who require a personalized approach to note-taking and knowledge management. The app's commitment to data ownership is another standout feature. By using open file formats, Obsidian ensures that users are not locked into a proprietary system, allowing them to retain control over their data for the long term. This is particularly appealing for individuals who prioritize privacy and security in their digital tools. Furthermore, with end-to-end encryption for syncing across devices, users can rest assured that their notes are safe and secure. In summary, Obsidian is more than just a note-taking app; it is a comprehensive tool designed to enhance productivity, creativity, and critical thinking. Its unique features, coupled with a strong emphasis on privacy and customization, make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to sharpen their thinking and manage their knowledge effectively. Whether you are a student, professional, or lifelong learner, Obsidian offers the tools you need to transform your thoughts into a structured and interconnected knowledge base that can grow with you over time.
Obsidian Key Features
Interconnected Notes
Obsidian allows users to create a network of interconnected notes, enabling them to visualize relationships between different ideas and concepts. This feature helps users build a 'second brain' by linking related information, making it easier to navigate complex topics and enhance understanding.
Graph View
The Graph View feature provides a visually engaging way to explore the connections between notes. Users can identify patterns and relationships in their thinking, which can lead to new insights and a deeper understanding of their knowledge base.
Canvas
Canvas offers an infinite space for users to brainstorm, diagram, and organize their ideas. This feature acts as a limitless playground for creativity, allowing users to lay out thoughts in a freeform manner, which can be particularly useful for complex projects or research.
Plugins and Customization
Obsidian supports thousands of plugins and themes, allowing users to tailor the app to fit their personal workflow. The open API enables developers to create custom plugins, enhancing functionality and adapting the tool to specific needs.
End-to-End Encryption
Obsidian ensures data privacy with end-to-end encryption, allowing users to securely sync notes across devices. This feature provides peace of mind that sensitive information remains private and protected from unauthorized access.
Markdown Support
Obsidian uses Markdown, a lightweight markup language, for note-taking. This allows users to format text easily and ensures compatibility with other Markdown-based tools, providing flexibility and ease of use.
Version History
The version history feature tracks changes made to notes, allowing users to review and revert to previous versions if needed. This is particularly valuable for collaborative projects or when refining complex ideas over time.
Obsidian Publish
Obsidian Publish allows users to turn their notes into an online wiki or digital garden. This feature supports seamless editing and customization, enabling users to share their knowledge with a wider audience while maintaining control over the presentation.
Fine-Grained Sync Control
Users can decide which files and preferences to sync across devices, providing control over data management. This feature ensures that only relevant information is shared, optimizing storage and maintaining privacy.
Community and Support
Obsidian offers a vibrant community and extensive support resources, including forums, Discord channels, and developer documentation. This network provides users with opportunities to learn, share ideas, and get assistance when needed.
Obsidian Pricing Plans (2026)
Personal Plan
- Sync across devices
- Publish notes online
- Access to premium plugins
- Limited to one user account
Enterprise Plan
- Custom domain for publishing
- Team collaboration features
- Advanced security options
- Requires a minimum of 5 users
Obsidian Pros
- + Highly customizable with thousands of plugins and themes, allowing users to tailor the app to their unique workflows.
- + Local storage of notes ensures privacy and accessibility, even without an internet connection.
- + Interconnected note system promotes deeper understanding and retention of information through visual and contextual links.
- + Graph view offers an engaging way to explore relationships between notes, facilitating creative thinking and idea generation.
- + Open file formats prevent vendor lock-in, giving users long-term ownership of their data.
- + End-to-end encryption for syncing provides security and peace of mind regarding sensitive information.
Obsidian Cons
- − Steeper learning curve for new users due to the wide range of features and customization options.
- − Some advanced features may require technical knowledge or familiarity with Markdown and plugins.
- − No built-in collaboration tools, which can limit teamwork and sharing capabilities.
- − Limited mobile functionality compared to desktop, which may hinder users who prefer mobile note-taking.
Obsidian Use Cases
Academic Research
Researchers use Obsidian to organize literature reviews and link related studies. The interconnected notes and graph view help visualize complex research topics, leading to more comprehensive insights and a structured approach to academic writing.
Project Management
Project managers utilize Obsidian to track tasks, deadlines, and project milestones. The ability to create kanban boards and link related tasks ensures efficient workflow management and clear visibility of project progress.
Personal Knowledge Base
Individuals create personal knowledge bases by linking notes on various topics of interest. This use case allows users to build a repository of information that grows over time, supporting lifelong learning and personal development.
Creative Writing
Writers use Obsidian to develop story ideas, character profiles, and plot outlines. The canvas and graph view features help visualize narrative structures, fostering creativity and aiding in the development of cohesive storylines.
Team Collaboration
Teams collaborate on shared projects by using Obsidian's version history and sync features. This ensures that all team members have access to the latest information while maintaining data privacy and security.
Journaling and Reflection
Individuals use Obsidian for journaling and personal reflection, linking entries to track personal growth and insights over time. This practice supports mental well-being and provides a structured way to process thoughts and emotions.
Technical Documentation
Developers and technical writers use Obsidian to create and maintain documentation. The Markdown support and publish feature allow for easy formatting and sharing of technical information with teams or the public.
What Makes Obsidian Unique
Interconnected Note System
Obsidian's ability to create a network of interconnected notes sets it apart from traditional note-taking apps. This feature transforms note-taking into a dynamic process of building a 'second brain' that evolves with the user's learning journey.
Privacy and Security
Unlike many cloud-based note-taking apps, Obsidian stores notes locally on the user's device and offers end-to-end encryption for synced data. This focus on privacy ensures that users retain control over their information.
Extensive Customization
With thousands of plugins and themes, Obsidian offers unparalleled customization options. Users can tailor the app to fit their unique workflows, making it adaptable to a wide range of personal and professional needs.
Open File Formats
Obsidian uses open file formats, ensuring that users are never locked into a proprietary system. This commitment to data portability allows users to access their notes with other tools and ensures long-term accessibility.
Community-Driven Development
Obsidian's active community contributes to its continuous improvement through plugin development and feedback. This collaborative approach fosters innovation and ensures that the app evolves to meet the needs of its diverse user base.
Who's Using Obsidian
Enterprise Teams
Enterprise teams use Obsidian to manage projects and collaborate on shared documents. The tool's flexibility and security features make it suitable for handling sensitive corporate information while enhancing productivity.
Freelancers
Freelancers leverage Obsidian to organize client projects, track tasks, and maintain a personal knowledge base. The app's customization options allow freelancers to tailor workflows to their specific needs, improving efficiency.
Students
Students use Obsidian to take lecture notes, organize study materials, and link related academic content. The interconnected notes and graph view help students visualize complex subjects and improve their understanding.
Writers and Authors
Writers and authors use Obsidian to develop ideas, outline stories, and manage research. The tool's canvas and graph view features support creative processes, helping writers organize thoughts and develop cohesive narratives.
Researchers
Researchers utilize Obsidian to manage literature reviews, link related studies, and organize research findings. The app's ability to visualize connections between notes aids in comprehensive analysis and synthesis of information.
How We Rate Obsidian
Obsidian vs Competitors
Obsidian vs Notion
While Notion offers a more structured database approach, Obsidian excels in its ability to create interconnected notes and prioritize user privacy.
- + Better for personal knowledge management
- + More flexible linking of notes
- − Notion has superior collaboration features and a more user-friendly interface.
Obsidian vs Evernote
Evernote focuses on a more traditional note-taking format, whereas Obsidian allows for deeper connections and visualizations between notes.
- + Enhanced privacy with local storage
- + More customizable with plugins
- − Evernote offers better web clipping and integration capabilities.
Obsidian vs Roam Research
Roam Research emphasizes bidirectional linking and daily notes, while Obsidian provides a more flexible and customizable environment.
- + Local storage and data ownership
- + More extensive plugin ecosystem
- − Roam Research has a stronger focus on collaborative features.
Obsidian vs Microsoft OneNote
OneNote offers a more structured notebook approach, while Obsidian allows for greater flexibility in note organization and linking.
- + Better for personal knowledge management
- + More customizable with plugins
- − OneNote integrates better with other Microsoft products.
Obsidian vs Bear
Bear is a beautiful writing app with a focus on simplicity, while Obsidian provides a more powerful framework for linking and visualizing notes.
- + More powerful linking capabilities
- + Better for extensive knowledge management
- − Bear has a more intuitive interface for casual users.
Obsidian Frequently Asked Questions (2026)
What is Obsidian?
Obsidian is a note-taking application that allows users to create interconnected notes, visualize relationships, and customize their workflows.
How much does Obsidian cost in 2026?
Obsidian offers a free tier with core functionalities, while premium features like sync and publish are available for a subscription fee.
Is Obsidian free?
Yes, Obsidian is free to use with basic features, but some advanced functionalities require a paid subscription.
Is Obsidian worth it?
For users who prioritize privacy, customization, and a unique note-taking approach, Obsidian offers significant value.
Obsidian vs alternatives?
Compared to alternatives like Notion or Evernote, Obsidian offers a more flexible and private environment for knowledge management.
Can I sync my notes across devices?
Yes, Obsidian offers a secure sync feature that allows users to access their notes across devices.
What file formats does Obsidian support?
Obsidian supports open file formats, primarily Markdown, allowing for easy export and compatibility.
How does the graph view work?
The graph view visualizes the connections between your notes, helping you discover relationships and patterns in your thinking.
Can I collaborate with others using Obsidian?
Obsidian is primarily designed for individual use; however, shared vaults can be created for collaboration.
What kind of plugins are available?
Obsidian has a wide range of plugins for various functionalities, including task management, calendar integration, and more.
Obsidian on Hacker News
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Obsidian Company
Obsidian Quick Info
- Pricing
- Freemium
- Upvotes
- 0
- Added
- January 18, 2026
Obsidian Is Best For
- Students seeking to organize their academic notes and research.
- Writers looking for a flexible platform to develop and structure their ideas.
- Researchers who need to compile and connect diverse sources of information.
- Project managers requiring a visual way to track tasks and resources.
- Knowledge workers aiming to build a personal repository of insights and information.
Obsidian Integrations
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