Zen
Minimal note-taking app storing Markdown notes in local SQLite database. Features instant search, flexible tagging, keyboard shortcuts, and offline access.
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/sheshbabu/zen 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 1 paid app
up to $10/mo ($120/yr) in subscriptions
Zen FAQ
Common questions
Is Zen free and open source?+
Zen is an open-source tool licensed under Open Source that runs on self-host. Minimal note-taking app storing Markdown notes in local SQLite database. Features instant search, flexible tagging, keyboard shortcuts, and offline access.
What paid software does Zen replace?+
Zen serves as a free replacement for 1 paid SaaS application: Apple Notes, saving up to $10/month ($120/year) in subscription bills.
How do you install and set up Zen?+
Installation: Clone https://github.com/sheshbabu/zen 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 Zen?+
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Apple Notes.