Show HN: Files.md – Open-source alternative to Obsidian

A developer has announced the beta release of Files.md, an open-source, browser-based application for managing markdown files, offering a lightweight alternative to Obsidian with a focus on simplicity and user ownership.

Files.md is a project developed over five years, designed to store notes, documents, checklists, and tasks as plain markdown files, all stored locally. The app requires no installation beyond opening an HTML file in a browser and supports offline use, synchronization via cloud services like Dropbox or iCloud, and even a Telegram chatbot for mobile access, according to the project’s creator.

The application is minimalistic, focusing on core features without plugins or complex structures. It allows users to create interconnected notes, link ideas, and grow their knowledge base systematically. The project’s code is simple enough for one person or an LLM to understand and modify, emphasizing user control over data and customization.

The developer shared that the app has been used for five years by their team to develop a second brain, emphasizing restraint and the importance of active thinking over elaborate note systems with endless plugins and graphs, which they argue can foster complacency and deferred thinking.

Why It Matters

This release matters because it offers a lightweight, open-source alternative to more complex PKM tools like Obsidian, appealing to users seeking simplicity, data ownership, and offline access. It challenges the trend of feature-heavy, plugin-dependent note apps by emphasizing restraint and direct thinking, which could influence future PKM tool development and user practices.

For the broader productivity and knowledge management community, Files.md exemplifies a minimalist approach that prioritizes core functionality and user sovereignty, resonating with those wary of vendor lock-in or over-complicated systems.

Background

Obsidian and similar tools have gained popularity by offering feature-rich, plugin-extensible environments for managing markdown notes. However, critics argue that such systems can lead to overcomplexity and deferred thinking, as users rely heavily on plugins and visualizations. Files.md emerges as a response, emphasizing local storage, simplicity, and direct engagement with notes.

The project has been in development for five years, with the current beta marking its public unveiling. The developer has expressed a philosophical stance against over-engineering and advocates for a system that fosters active thinking and immediate understanding.

“No need to install anything, all you need is a browser. Extremely simple code. One person or an LLM can fit the whole project in head.”

— the project creator

“Restraint and simplicity foster creativity and deep thinking, avoiding the trap of deferred thought that complex PKM systems can create.”

— the developer

What Remains Unclear

It is not yet clear how widely adopted Files.md will become, or how its features will evolve beyond the current beta. Details about future development plans, plugin support, or integrations remain unspecified.

What’s Next

Next steps include gathering user feedback during the beta phase, potential development of additional features like enhanced synchronization, and community contributions to improve and expand the tool. The developer may also explore official releases beyond the initial beta.

Key Questions

How does Files.md compare to Obsidian?

Files.md is a minimalist, open-source alternative that focuses on local markdown files, requiring no plugins or complex structures, whereas Obsidian offers extensive plugins, graph views, and customization options.

Can Files.md sync across devices?

Yes, it supports synchronization via cloud services like Dropbox, iCloud, or Google Drive, and also offers a Telegram chatbot for mobile access.

Is Files.md suitable for large knowledge bases?

While designed for simplicity, it can handle large collections of markdown files, but its minimalist interface may lack some advanced features found in more complex tools like Obsidian.

Is the project open for contributions?

Yes, the project is open-source, and its code is simple enough for individuals or LLMs to understand and modify, encouraging community involvement.

What are the main philosophical differences from other note-taking apps?

Files.md emphasizes restraint, immediate understanding, and user ownership, contrasting with systems that promote elaborate structures, plugins, and deferred thinking.