Memos
Memos is a self-hosted, open-source note-taking app built around a private timeline. Write in Markdown, skip the folder setup, and keep your data on your own server.
Technical Profile & Specs
verified 2026-11-07
- Cost
- $0 / forever (Open Source)
- License
- Open Source
- Hosting Model
- Self-host (your server)
- Platforms
- webself-hosteddocker to self-host
- Installation
- Clone https://github.com/usememos/memos or deploy with Docker Compose
- Operational Setup
- Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
- Where Your Data Lives
- All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
- The Catch / Trade-off
- Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Apple Notes.
Replaces 2 paid apps
up to $20/mo ($240/yr) in subscriptions
Memos FAQ
Common questions
Is Memos free and open source?+
Memos is an open-source tool licensed under Open Source that runs on self-host. Memos is a self-hosted, open-source note-taking app built around a private timeline. Write in Markdown, skip the folder setup, and keep your data on your own server.
What paid software does Memos replace?+
Memos serves as a free replacement for 2 paid SaaS applications: Apple Notes, Obsidian, saving up to $20/month ($240/year) in subscription bills.
How do you install and set up Memos?+
Installation: Clone https://github.com/usememos/memos or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup notes: Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
What is the catch or trade-off with Memos?+
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Apple Notes.