EverFree
open-source replacement for Evernote
Last verified:
What is EverFree?
EverFree is an open-source note-taking tool that helps users leave expensive note-taking apps like Evernote and Notion while maintaining their workflow. It converts your notes into Markdown format and syncs them to your own private GitHub repository, giving you complete ownership and control over your data. The tool works across web browsers (everfree.vercel.app), mobile web apps, and includes a native Mac app for macOS users.
Key features include seamless Evernote migration through the Mac app which imports Evernote notes, converts them to Markdown, and pushes the backup to GitHub. Your notes live as plain Markdown files in your GitHub repository, making them inspectable, clonable, exportable, and movable whenever you want. The tool uses your own GitHub profile to store the private notes repository, with EverFree reading and writing through GitHub authentication.
EverFree is designed for developers, privacy-conscious users, Evernote refugees, and anyone tired of subscription-based note-taking apps. It's ideal for people who want user-owned storage, open-source software, and the ability to self-host their note-taking solution. The tool is completely free with no subscription wall, as it's built around the principle that your notes should belong to you.
The platform supports multiple access points: use the web app from any browser, capture notes from mobile devices through the mobile web app, and run the full native app on macOS for the best experience, especially during Evernote migration. The self-hostable nature means you can clone the project and deploy your own web client if desired.
EverFree pricing
Pricing model: Freemium
Always free - no subscription wall for your own notes. EverFree is open source and built around user-owned storage. There are no paid plans or premium tiers. The core note-taking functionality, GitHub sync, Evernote migration, and access to web, mobile web, and Mac app are all completely free. Future pricing hasn't been announced, but the project is committed to keeping core features free forever.
EverFree pros
- Completely free with no subscription wall
- Open source code you can inspect and trust
- Your notes stored in your own private GitHub repository
- Notes saved as plain Markdown files for maximum portability
- Easy Evernote migration through native Mac app
- Works on web, mobile web, and native macOS
- No vendor lock-in - you own all your data
- Can inspect, clone, export, or move notes anytime
- Self-hostable - deploy your own web client
- Uses GitHub authentication for secure access
- Private repository keeps notes secure
- Markdown format works everywhere universally
- No data mining or selling of your notes
- Active development on Vercel platform
- Perfect for developers comfortable with GitHub
EverFree cons
- Requires GitHub account and familiarity with Git
- Native app only available for macOS, not Windows or Linux
- No desktop app for Windows or Linux users
- Mobile access only through mobile web, no native iOS/Android app
- GitHub rate limits may affect very heavy usage
- Not ideal for non-technical users unfamiliar with GitHub
- No built-in collaboration features for teams
- Search functionality limited compared to paid note apps
Frequently asked questions about EverFree
What is EverFree?
EverFree is an open-source note-taking tool that converts your notes into Markdown format and syncs them to your own private GitHub repository. It helps you leave expensive note-taking apps like Evernote and Notion without losing your workflow, while giving you complete ownership and control over your data.
How much does EverFree cost?
EverFree is completely free with no subscription wall. There are no paid plans or premium tiers. The project is open source and built around user-owned storage, committing to keeping core features free forever.
Where are my notes stored?
Your notes are stored as Markdown files in your own private GitHub repository. Your GitHub profile stores the private notes repository, and EverFree reads and writes through GitHub authentication. This means you own your data completely.
Can I migrate from Evernote?
Yes, EverFree makes Evernote migration easy. Use the native Mac app to import Evernote notes, which converts them to Markdown format and pushes the backup to your GitHub repository. After your notes are backed up, you can continue using the web app and mobile web app.
What platforms does EverFree support?
EverFree works on multiple platforms: use everfree.vercel.app from any web browser, capture notes from mobile through the mobile web app, and run the full native app on macOS. The Mac app is particularly useful for Evernote migration.
Do I need a GitHub account?
Yes, you need a GitHub account to use EverFree. Your GitHub profile stores the private notes repository, and you authorize EverFree at github.com/login/device. EverFree reads and writes your notes through GitHub authentication.
Can I self-host EverFree?
Yes, EverFree is self-hostable. You can clone the project, deploy your own web client, or inspect the code before trusting it with your notes. The open-source nature gives you full control over your deployment.
What format are my notes in?
Your notes are stored as plain Markdown files (.md). This format is universally compatible, human-readable, and allows you to inspect, clone, export, or move your notes whenever you want without vendor lock-in.
Is EverFree open source?
Yes, EverFree is completely open source. You can inspect the code before trusting it with your notes, clone the project, deploy your own version, or contribute to development. The open-source nature ensures transparency and user control.
Who is EverFree for?
EverFree is ideal for developers, privacy-conscious users, Evernote refugees, and anyone tired of subscription-based note-taking apps. It's perfect for people who want user-owned storage, open-source software, GitHub familiarity, and complete control over their notes without vendor lock-in.