CryptPad Rich Text

What CryptPad Rich Text is

CryptPad Rich Text is a browser-based editor for creating and collaborating on documents. It supports real-time editing and comments, with formatting for headings, lists, blockquotes, tables, bullet points, and code blocks. You can add images or other media from CryptDrive or upload files directly, then export a document as HTML or .docx. An outline view and a separate comments view help navigate a document, while version history lets users return to earlier versions. Documents can be shared through encrypted links, with optional password protection and view or edit permissions; recipients do not need an account. CryptPad encrypts data in the browser, so readable document content stays on the user's device and service administrators cannot see it. The editor is part of the open-source CryptPad suite, which also includes spreadsheets, code and Markdown, Kanban, slides, whiteboards, and forms. Individuals can use a free account on a public instance or self-host the software. Organizations can arrange managed cloud hosting or on-premise support, with options such as custom domains, branding, storage controls, and SSO integration. The maker, CryptPad, is part of XWiki, based in Paris, France.

Who it suits

CryptPad Rich Text suits people and teams working on shared documentation, meeting notes, content plans, reports, or proposals. It is also relevant to organizations that need browser-encrypted collaboration and want managed cloud hosting or on-premise support.

Limits

The free plan provides an account on a public instance; self-hosting is also available. Track changes is not supported.

Getting started

1. Visit https://cryptpad.org/.
2. Use a free account on a public instance, or self-host the software.
3. Create a Rich Text document for collaboration.
4. Share it with an encrypted link and choose view or edit permissions.
5. For organizational hosting, arrange a managed cloud instance or on-premise support.

Verdict

Choose CryptPad Rich Text for collaborative documents when browser encryption, link-based sharing, and open-source self-hosting matter. Look elsewhere if you need track changes, which it does not support.