Side by side
CrossLine vs outl
Both stand on outliner software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
CrossLine combines outlining, cross-links, transclusion, and search in a free application. Check the platform-specific startup and build notes if you plan to use Mac or add Lucene.
Visit CrossLine
Free plan Open source AndroidAPIiPhone+4
outl combines a local Markdown workflow with offline editing, encrypted device sync, and outliner features. Keep its public beta status and unsigned macOS DMG in mind.
Visit outlThe facts
| CrossLine | outl | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | outl.app |
| On outliner software | #4 of 31 | #1 of 31 |
CrossLine: what it does well
- Organizes text into collapsible parent–child topics.
- Includes full-text search and supports backlinks.
- Lists HTML and CLDX export formats.
- Runs without installation or special privileges.
- Available for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
What to know first
- Mac startup requires the context menu’s open command.
- Lucene is an optional build-time search integration.
- No usage limits are stated.
outl: what it does well
- Free and MIT licensed
- Works offline and supports Markdown
- Syncs directly between devices on the same Wi-Fi
- Includes backlinks, tags, and a daily journal
What to know first
- The product is pre-1.0 and builds are public beta
- The macOS desktop DMG is currently unsigned
- Real-time collaboration is not supported
Alternatives to CrossLine Alternatives to outl The whole list