Our verdict: Standard Notes is built for notes you would not want anyone else to read. The free plan encrypts everything end to end and syncs across unlimited devices. Free notes are plain text only; the Super rich-text editor, folders and longer revision history need a paid plan.
About Standard Notes
Standard Notes is developed by Standard Notes Ltd. as open-source software that has been independently audited. Notes and files are encrypted on your device with XChaCha20-Poly1305 before syncing, so only you hold the keys.
The free Standard plan includes plain-text notes, sync on unlimited devices, offline access, password protection for individual notes, two-factor authentication, daily encrypted email backups and full export. Productivity costs $90 per year and Professional $120 per year with 100 GB of encrypted file storage.
What it does well
- End-to-end encryption. Notes are encrypted on your device with XChaCha20-Poly1305.
- Unlimited device sync. Free sync across web, desktop and mobile apps.
- Offline access. A local copy keeps notes available without a connection.
- Note protection. Password-protect individual notes and use two-factor login.
- Encrypted backups. Daily encrypted email backups and full export in plain or encrypted form.
Who it is for
Good fit
Privacy-minded users storing journals, passwords, records and other sensitive notes.
Look elsewhere
People who want rich formatting, folders or file storage without paying.
Pros and cons
Pros
- End-to-end encryption, open source and audited
- Free sync on unlimited devices
- Offline access
- Daily encrypted email backups
Cons
- Free plan is plain text only
- Folders, Super notes and revision history require a paid plan
- Lost passwords cannot be reset without losing data
How to install Standard Notes
The direct link downloads the 64-bit Windows installer from the official GitHub release. Create an account to sync, or use the app without one for local notes only. Choose a strong password and store it safely; because of end-to-end encryption, the company cannot recover your notes if you forget it.
Questions about Standard Notes
Is Standard Notes free?
Yes. The Standard plan is free with encryption, unlimited device sync and plain-text notes. Paid plans add rich editors, folders and file storage.
Can Standard Notes read my notes?
No. Notes are end-to-end encrypted on your device, and only you hold the keys.
What do Standard Notes paid plans add?
Productivity adds Super notes, spreadsheets, folders, 2FA codes and one year of revision history. Professional adds 100 GB of encrypted file storage and sharing with up to five accounts.
