# Koru: Free Open Source Alternative to Apple Notes, Obsidian

Canonical: https://caniforkit.com/fork/koru
Last updated: 2026-11-07

Koru (Open Source, Open Source) replaces Apple Notes, Obsidian. Write, organize, and run AI agents in a private workspace that stores everything locally, syncs peer-to-peer, and works offline on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

## Tool Specifications
- **Tool Name**: Koru
- **Type**: Open Source Project
- **License**: Open Source
- **Official Website**: https://www.koru.do/
- **GitHub Repository**: https://github.com/koruworks/mono
- **GitHub Stars**: ★ 33
- **Runs On**: Local
- **Maintenance Status**: nov 2026
- **Platforms**: desktop, cross-platform, one-click install
- **Data Storage**: All application data lives locally on your own machine.
- **Installation**: Clone https://github.com/koruworks/mono or deploy with Docker Compose
- **Setup Requirements**: Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
- **The Catch / Limitation**: Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.

## Paid SaaS Applications Replaced (2)
Replacing these paid tools with Koru saves up to $20/mo ($240/yr) in software subscriptions:

| Replaced Software | Category | SaaS Price | Comparison Guide |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Apple Notes](https://caniforkit.com/apple-notes) | [notes & knowledge](https://caniforkit.com/category/notes-knowledge) | $10/mo | [Compare Apple Notes vs Koru](https://caniforkit.com/vs/apple-notes-vs-koru) |
| [Obsidian](https://caniforkit.com/obsidian) | [notes & knowledge](https://caniforkit.com/category/notes-knowledge) | $10/mo | [Compare Obsidian vs Koru](https://caniforkit.com/vs/obsidian-vs-koru) |

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is Koru free and open source?
Koru is an open source tool licensed under Open Source that runs on local. Write, organize, and run AI agents in a private workspace that stores everything locally, syncs peer-to-peer, and works offline on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

### What is the trade-off or limitation of using Koru?
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.

## Related

- [Self-Hosted Open Source Directory](https://caniforkit.com/self-hosted)
- [All Paid SaaS Alternatives Index](https://caniforkit.com/alternatives)
- [Software Categories Directory](https://caniforkit.com/categories)
- [Homepage](https://caniforkit.com)