Privacy-first, browser-based note taking
Laverna is a free, open-source note app designed for people who prioritize privacy. It runs in the browser and encrypts your notes so that anyone who gains access to your computer or smartphone cannot read your stored content.
How it keeps your notes safe
- Notes are encrypted locally before being stored, preventing casual access from others.
- You can sync notebooks to cloud services such as Dropbox while keeping the data encrypted.
- Because encryption happens on your device, Laverna protects notes even if the device is compromised.
Syncing and customization
Laverna opens directly in the browser and allows quick creation and editing of notes. It supports syncing with cloud storage and offers a variety of configurable settings so you can tailor the interface and behavior to your workflow. Creating a plain text note takes only seconds; adding images may require extra time.
Best use cases
This app is particularly useful for:
- People working on confidential projects in shared or busy environments who need to prevent coworkers from seeing sensitive notes.
- Users who prefer an open-source, in-browser solution with optional cloud backup.
Stability and limitations
While Laverna generally runs smoothly, there are a few remaining bugs that can affect the experience. Expect reliable basic functionality, but occasional glitches may occur, especially with some advanced features.
Paid alternative to consider
- Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition — Paid
Although not a like-for-like replacement in function, this entry was listed as a recommended paid option in the original text. If you were looking for a commercial alternative for a different purpose, consider whether paid offerings match your needs for security, collaboration, or platform support.
Technical
- Mac
- Free