In recent years, Notion has become one of the most popular note-taking apps, but it has its limitations.

Due to political influences, Notion has exited the Russian market. In the Chinese market and some other regions, access can also be slow due to server issues, leading many people to search for alternatives.

Let’s take a look at some of Notion’s competitors, their pros and cons, and find the best alternative to Notion.

What is Notion?

Notion, launched in 2016, is a multifunctional note-taking application that integrates notes, task management, databases, and collaboration. Known for its flexibility and user-friendly interface, Notion quickly became a go-to tool for individuals and teams to manage projects, organize information, and collaborate.

Notion’s core feature is its multi-dimensional database, which allows users to create custom tables, kanban boards, calendars, and gallery views to meet various data management needs. Additionally, Notion offers robust collaboration tools, enabling team members to co-edit documents, assign tasks, add comments, and @mention colleagues in real-time.

Notion supports cross-platform usage, ensuring users can access and edit pages seamlessly on desktops, laptops, and mobile devices, ensuring continuity and flexibility in work.

Key Reasons to Look for Notion Alternatives

In September, Notion announced its exit from the Russian market, which was a blow for many users who rely on the app.

1. Data Security Concerns

Notion's exit raises potential data security concerns, especially for businesses. The risk of data deletion under pressure from U.S. authorities is a consideration that leads users to seek safer alternatives.

2. Lack of Language Support

Notion does not support Russian, which inconveniences many users. An app that offers a Russian interface and localization would allow for easier management of notes and tasks.

3. Limited Payment Options

Due to sanctions, many Western apps, including Notion, can’t accept Russian local bank cards. This adds to the hassle for users who need subscription services.

With Notion’s exit from the Russian market, users face challenges, and it’s essential to find a suitable alternative that supports efficient work and life management.

Top Notion Alternatives in 2024

1. Buildin

Pros

  • All of Notion’s Strengths: Buildin replicates all of Notion’s features, including documents, databases, formulas, mind maps, multimedia files, and charts, handling all of Notion’s complex operations.
  • Supports Notion API Data Import: This feature allows quick and efficient Notion data export without losing any information.
  • Targeted at Russian Users: Buildin is highly focused on Russian users, with an ambassador program and a Russian version already available, and local Russian payment options soon to be added.

Cons

  • Learning Curve: Like Notion, if you haven’t used Notion before, Buildin will take some time to learn and get used to.
  • No iOS Version Yet: Other versions are available, but iOS is still under development.

2. AFFiNE

Pros

  • Open Source: Developers can customize AFFiNE to meet personalized needs.
  • Real-Time Collaboration: Like Notion, AFFiNE allows multiple users to edit documents and update in real time, both offline and online.
  • Local Storage: Data can be stored locally, ensuring privacy without concern over data leaks.
  • Community Support: AFFiNE has a community that actively helps users resolve issues.

Cons

  • Incomplete Features: AFFiNE combines Notion’s multi-dimensional tables and Miro’s whiteboard, but it’s still less comprehensive than Notion. For example, its database views are limited to table and kanban.
  • Limited Platform Availability: Only available as a web and desktop app, with no iOS or Android support.

3. Bear

Pros

  • Beautiful Interface: Bear’s elegant UI and excellent typography offer an immersive, distraction-free writing experience.
  • Tag-Based Organization: Its flexible tag system allows for efficient and intuitive organization of notes with multi-level tagging.
  • Reliable Syncing: Bear’s paid sync service is exceptional, allowing seamless sync across macOS, iOS, and iPadOS.

Cons

  1. Platform Limitation: Bear is available only on Apple devices with iCloud syncing, making it unsuitable for non-Apple users.
  2. Limited Features: Bear only supports document and simple tables, making it unfit for complex management tasks and collaboration.

4. Evernote

Pros

  • Cross-Platform Syncing: Evernote allows access to notes on multiple devices, including desktops, laptops, and mobile devices.
  • Powerful Search Functionality: Evernote can search text within notes, images, and even handwritten notes, making it easy to locate needed information.
  • Traditional Document Management: Evernote organizes notes through notebooks and tags, enabling orderly information management.

Cons

  • User Interface: While functional, Evernote’s UI is less modern and intuitive than some competitors.
  • Performance Issues: Editing complex notes may slow down Evernote, especially with a poor network connection, which can affect the user experience.
  • Data Privacy Concerns: While Evernote offers encryption, it has previously faced issues with data security.

5. YoNote

Pros:

  • Localized for Russia: As a Russian app, YoNote provides better localization and support.
  • Whiteboard Functionality: Like AFFiNE, it includes a whiteboard feature, useful for brainstorming.

Cons:

  • Feature Limitations: YoNote lacks the comprehensive features of other apps, with some still in development, such as multi-dimensional views.
  • Web-Only: Currently only supports a web version.

6. Obsidian

Pros

  • Linked Notes: Obsidian’s bi-directional linking facilitates connections between notes, helping create a networked knowledge system.
  • Local Storage: All data is stored locally, enhancing privacy and security.
  • High Customizability: Community plugins allow users to tailor the app to their needs.

Cons

  1. Steep Learning Curve: New users need time to learn and adapt.
  2. Traditional Interface Design: Obsidian’s interface may feel less modern than other note-taking apps.
  3. Varied Plugin Quality: While supporting plugins, the quality can be inconsistent, requiring careful selection.
  4. Syncing Limitations: Obsidian’s native sync feature is pricey, and third-party options may not be convenient for all users.

Conclusion

For those seeking the closest Notion alternative, consider Buildin, which offers almost identical features, has a Russian version, and soon will support Yoomoney payments.

For a Russian local alternative, try YoNote.

If Notion-like versatility isn’t essential, and local payment or Russian language support isn’t required, you might prefer AFFiNE, Bear, Evernote, or Obsidian.

There’s a suitable app for everyone.

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