Local-first files
Your notes live as markdown on your machine, not inside a proprietary cloud silo.Desktop markdown notes
A calmer home for serious notes.
PureNotes is a local-first desktop notes app for people who want markdown, folders, and fast capture without workspace clutter.
markdown firstlocal storagemacOS, Windows, Linuxopen source
# Product direction
## v1.1 priorities
- faster note switching
- cleaner folder creation
- improved markdown preview
## launch copy
PureNotes should feel like opening a notebook,
not like entering another workspace tool.No lock-inMarkdown files stay readable outside the app.
Focused UIBuilt for writing, not for fake productivity theater.
Fast desktop flow
Open the app and write immediately. No workspace rituals, no dashboard detours.Readable structure
Folders, files, markdown. Nothing exotic to learn and nothing painful to export later.Design principles
More notebook, less productivity cosplay.
PureNotes is opinionated in the right places: plain files, intentional restraint, and an interface that helps thoughts take shape instead of competing for attention.
Capture
Capture without friction.
Start with plain text while the thought is still warm. Headings, lists, code fences, links.Shape
Shape without friction.
Refine the draft into a document you can keep, publish, or move elsewhere without cleanup.Find
Find without friction.
Use simple naming and instant search instead of bloated knowledge-graph theater.What it feels like
A writing tool that behaves like a tool.
No kanban masquerading as note-taking. No decorative AI panels. No ritualized setup. Open the app, write in markdown, keep your files, move on.
Open-source coreInspect the product, fork it, improve it, or self-host your own releases.
Desktop-native focusDesigned around a stable local workflow instead of browser-tab drift.
Markdown by defaultHeadings, lists, links, code blocks, and future-proof files from day one.
Core capabilities
Everything you need to think clearly, nothing that asks for applause.
Quick capture
Open PureNotes and write immediately. No workspace setup, no friction, no delayed startup.
Markdown first
Write with native markdown syntax and keep your notes future-proof in plain text files.
Focused writing
A calm editor UI designed to remove distractions and keep your attention on content.
Organized by folders
Keep structure simple with folders and files you can understand at a glance.
Local by default
Your notes stay on your machine. No account required and no forced cloud dependencies.
Fast search
Find notes quickly through instant filtering and clear naming conventions.
FAQ
Questions before you put it on your desktop.
Is PureNotes free?
Yes. PureNotes is free and open-source. You can use it without subscriptions or premium tiers.
Which platforms are supported?
PureNotes is built with Electron and works on macOS, Windows, and Linux.
Can I write with Markdown?
Yes. Markdown is the core writing format, including headings, lists, links, code blocks, and more.
Where are my notes stored?
Your notes are stored locally on your device, so you keep full control over your data.
Can I contribute?
Yes. The project is open-source and contributions are welcome through GitHub issues and pull requests.