Logseq is an open-source, privacy-focused knowledge management and note-taking platform built to support networked thinking. With a local-first approach and Markdown-based structure, Logseq allows individuals and teams to capture thoughts, connect ideas, and build a personal or collaborative knowledge base. It’s designed for those who value ownership of their data, flexibility in how they take notes, and the power of linking thoughts together in a non-linear way.
Whether you are a researcher, student, developer, or knowledge worker, Logseq provides a robust platform to manage information, plan projects, and deepen your understanding through bi-directional linking, outlines, and daily journals.
Features
Logseq offers a wide range of features designed to enhance note-taking, thinking, and project organization.
Outliner-Based Note-Taking
Organize notes in an indented outline format for structured thinking and easy navigation.
Bi-Directional Linking
Create connections between notes using backlinks, allowing you to build a personal knowledge graph.
Markdown and Org-Mode Support
Write in plain text using Markdown or Org-mode, ensuring compatibility and portability of your notes.
Local-First Storage
All notes are stored locally by default, giving users complete ownership and control over their data.
Graph View
Visualize relationships between pages and ideas in an interactive knowledge graph.
Daily Journals
Capture ideas and to-dos with a daily journal page that encourages consistent logging.
Plugins and Customization
Extend functionality with community plugins and themes. Customize your workspace to match your workflow.
Task Management
Built-in task tracking with support for to-dos, priorities, and scheduled items.
Whiteboard Mode
Visualize your ideas freely with a canvas-style whiteboard for brainstorming and diagramming.
Encrypted Notes
Secure sensitive information with optional end-to-end encryption for selected pages.
How It Works
Logseq is structured around an outliner system where each bullet point is a block. These blocks can be linked, tagged, scheduled, or turned into tasks. Users begin each session with a daily journal page, encouraging a consistent practice of note-taking and task planning.
Pages are created automatically as you type and link concepts using double brackets. You can navigate your notes through backlinks, the graph view, or custom queries that pull data across pages.
All data is stored locally in your preferred format (Markdown or Org), and can be synced using third-party tools if needed. Logseq works offline and syncs changes when back online, maintaining a seamless experience across devices.
Users can further enhance their workspace with plugins, themes, and custom CSS, allowing for deep personalization and expanded functionality.
Use Cases
Logseq is designed for knowledge workers and learners who benefit from non-linear, connected note-taking and personal knowledge management.
Researchers
Build a connected archive of literature notes, ideas, and citations with backlinks and graph views.
Students
Organize class notes, assignments, and revision materials in a structured and linkable format.
Writers and Content Creators
Plan and draft content using outlines, manage research material, and track progress with tasks.
Developers
Document code snippets, system designs, and learning notes in Markdown or Org-mode with local access.
Project Managers and Teams
Collaborate on project notes, manage tasks, and maintain a shared knowledge base with complete data control.
Zettelkasten Practitioners
Implement a digital Zettelkasten system using bi-directional links and the graph view to connect atomic notes.
Pricing
As of the latest information available on the official website, Logseq is a free and open-source application.
Free Plan
Includes all core features such as outliner notes, graph view, daily journals, and plugin support. Users can self-host or use the desktop and mobile apps with full access.
Pro Features (Coming Soon)
The Logseq team is working on introducing optional paid services such as cloud syncing and collaboration features. These premium services will be optional and designed to support the continued development of the project.
Because Logseq is open-source, users can inspect, modify, and contribute to the codebase. For updates on upcoming features and pricing tiers, visit the official Logseq website.
Strengths
Privacy-First Architecture
All notes are stored locally by default, with no data sent to external servers unless the user chooses.
Open-Source and Free
Completely free to use, with an active community contributing plugins, themes, and support.
Rich Linking and Navigation
Bi-directional linking, graph view, and query support offer advanced knowledge management features.
Highly Customizable
Supports plugins, themes, and custom code for deep personalization.
Offline and Cross-Platform Support
Available on desktop and mobile with full offline functionality.
Support for Markdown and Org-mode
Flexible editing options for users from different note-taking backgrounds.
Drawbacks
No Native Cloud Sync
Users must rely on third-party services like Dropbox, Git, or iCloud for syncing across devices.
Learning Curve
The outliner system and linking conventions may take time for new users to adopt.
No Built-In Collaboration Yet
Currently lacks real-time team collaboration or multi-user editing, though this is planned.
Limited Mobile Functionality Compared to Desktop
Some features may be more refined on desktop versions than mobile apps.
Requires Manual Setup for Advanced Workflows
Power users may need to customize workflows using plugins or scripts, which may not be ideal for casual users.
Comparison with Other Tools
Compared to other note-taking and knowledge management platforms, Logseq offers a unique mix of local-first storage, deep linking, and community-driven development.
Versus Roam Research
Roam offers similar bi-directional linking and graph view but is subscription-based and cloud-hosted. Logseq offers similar features for free with local-first privacy.
Versus Obsidian
Obsidian also supports Markdown and local notes with a strong plugin system. Logseq excels with built-in outliner features and task management.
Versus Notion
Notion is cloud-based and focuses on databases and templates. Logseq is better for users focused on privacy, offline use, and deep knowledge work.
Logseq is ideal for users who prioritize privacy, own their data, and want a highly customizable and powerful tool for thinking and writing.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Logseq has developed a strong reputation among knowledge workers, researchers, and developers. It is frequently praised for its privacy-first design, speed, and community-driven growth.
From user feedback:
“Logseq changed how I think, work, and write. It’s more than a note-taker — it’s a thinking tool.”
“I finally found a tool that gives me full control of my data without sacrificing functionality.”
“The plugin community is fantastic, and I can customize the entire experience to match my workflow.”
Logseq is also well-reviewed on community platforms like Reddit, GitHub, and Product Hunt, where it continues to grow in popularity.
Visit Product Hunt to see more community feedback.
Conclusion
Logseq is a powerful, open-source tool for knowledge management and connected thinking. It combines the structure of an outliner with the flexibility of bi-directional linking and Markdown formatting, all while respecting user privacy through local-first storage.
Ideal for researchers, students, content creators, and knowledge workers, Logseq supports deep work, task management, and long-term knowledge organization. While it may take time to master, the payoff is a fully customizable, secure, and future-proof personal knowledge system.
If you’re seeking a tool that gives you control, structure, and insight into your ideas and work, Logseq is a worthy addition to your digital toolkit.
