Obsidian is a local Markdown-based knowledge management tool that emphasizes data privacy and knowledge connection, enabling users to build personal knowledge graphs through bidirectional links. It supports custom plugins and themes, with all data stored locally on your device to ensure privacy security. Ideal for personal note-taking, academic research, and project management.
Core Features
Bidirectional Links & Knowledge Graph
- Create inter-note connections using
[[wikilink]]syntax, automatically generating a visual knowledge graph to display idea relationships. - Supports tag categorization and backlinks for quick reference tracing.
- Create inter-note connections using
Canvas Infinite Workspace
- Freely arrange text blocks, images, and links for mind mapping, flowcharts, and creative拼接.
- Supports zoom and pan for handling complex project planning and brainstorming.
Full-Featured Markdown Editing
- Supports rich text, code highlighting, LaTeX mathematical equations, and Mermaid diagram embedding.
- Real-time preview and split-screen editing with customizable shortcuts and editor themes.
Plugin Ecosystem
- Community plugin marketplace offers 2000+ extensions:
- Dataview: Query and filter note metadata to build dynamic dashboards.
- Calendar: Generate daily notes and timeline views.
- Kanban: Markdown-based看板任务管理.
- Supports custom plugin development (JavaScript/TypeScript).
- Community plugin marketplace offers 2000+ extensions:
Local Data Management
- All notes stored as plain text Markdown files, accessible with any text editor.
- Built-in backup tool with encryption and version history tracking.
Features & Advantages
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Data Sovereignty | Notes stored locally without cloud account requirement, avoiding data breach risks. Supports export to PDF/HTML/JSON. |
| Highly Customizable | CSS theme customization, shortcut mapping, and plugin combinations adapt to minimalist or complex workflows. |
| Open Format Compatibility | Based on Markdown standard, import/export support with Notion, Roam Research, Logseq, and other tools. |
| Low Threshold & High Efficiency | Core features free with zero learning curve; advanced functionalities extendable via plugins. |
| Offline-First | Fully supports offline work; internet only required for plugin downloads and optional Sync service. |
Application Scenarios
- Personal Knowledge Management: Build private wikis, reading notes, and lifelong learning repositories.
- Academic Research: Literature note linking, thesis outline organization, and citation management.
- Project Planning: Task progress tracking and resource allocation via Kanban and Canvas.
- Creative Writing: Novel plot development, character relationship mapping, and inspiration collection.
- Programming Learning: Code snippet management, technical documentation, and API note-taking.
Supported Platforms
- Desktop: Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, Linux (Ubuntu 18.04+/Fedora 34+).
- Mobile: iOS 13+, Android 8.0+ (supports sync and offline editing).