Side by side
SiYuan vs Supernotes
Both stand on note-taking apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidExtensioniPhone+5
SiYuan combines structured notes, knowledge links, databases, and spaced repetition, with local and self-hosted options. Review the plan terms carefully: the listed subscription price and billing description do not agree clearly.
Visit SiYuan Free plan AndroidAPIExtension+5
Supernotes centers note organization on linked digital cards, with offline access, collaboration, and multiple import and export options. The free Starter tier is capped at 100 cards; Unlimited adds uncapped cards and the full API and integrations.
Visit SupernotesThe facts
| SiYuan | Supernotes | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | No |
| Runs on | Android, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | Android, API, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | PRO Features: $64, paid once | Unlimited monthly: £6 a month |
| Plans published | 3 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Supernotes |
| Website | b3log.org | supernotes.app |
| On note-taking apps | #20 of 216 | #24 of 216 |
SiYuan: what it does well
- Offline access is available.
- Backlinks support filtering and search.
- Databases include relations, rollups, and templates.
- Flashcards use the FSRS algorithm.
- Docker self-hosting is supported.
What to know first
- Free plan includes local storage only.
- Third-party storage is excluded from PRO Features.
- Subscription pricing information is inconsistent.
Supernotes: what it does well
- Cards can be linked and explored with graph views.
- Apps work offline and sync after reconnection.
- Supports real-time collaborative card editing.
- Imports from five named note sources.
- Exports notes as PDF, JSON, or Markdown.
What to know first
- Starter plan lists a limit of 100 cards.
- Cards have a 1,200-character soft limit.
- Unlimited costs £6/mo, billed £72 billed annually.
Alternatives to SiYuan Alternatives to Supernotes The whole list

