NoteGen
Local-first Markdown app that turns scattered records into structured notes with AI.
A local-first Markdown note-taking app that uses AI to synthesize scattered fragments into clear notes.
NoteGen is a local-first Markdown application designed to help you collect scattered fragments like voice notes, links, and screenshots without interrupting your train of thought. You can later select these records and use AI to organize them into structured reports, summaries, or articles. It suits executives, researchers, and productivity-focused professionals who need to capture information on the fly and shape it into polished notes.
What it is
The application separates the capture phase from the organization phase, allowing you to save ideas, images, files, and todos instantly. When ready, you select related records, apply a template or custom prompt, and let NoteGen's AI generate a structured draft inside a Markdown workspace. It also includes canvas-based visual tools like mind maps and flowcharts, as well as an agent mode for longer tasks.
Who it's for
It suits professionals who accumulate a high volume of digital detritus—such as reading fragments, meeting snippets, and screenshots—and need an intelligent way to synthesize them. It does not suit users who want a strictly cloud-first ecosystem without managing local files or external storage sync services.
Key features
Decoupled Capture
Save thoughts, voice notes, and screenshots instantly without naming folders or defining structures.
Hybrid Knowledge Base
Build a searchable local database combining semantic vector retrieval with standard text search.
Visual Canvas
Create and edit interactive flowcharts, mind maps, timelines, and data charts directly alongside notes.
Multi-Provider AI
Configure different AI models for chat, writing, OCR, embeddings, and audio transcription.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- Local-first Markdown file storage keeps your data fully portable and independent of proprietary formats.
- Supports multiple cloud sync backends including S3, WebDAV, Git repositories, and local backups.
- Canvas workspace allows you to generate and edit flowcharts, mind maps, and diagrams visually.
- Agent mode handles longer tasks, MCP servers, and installable skills for advanced workflows.
Where it falls short
- Requires you to bring your own API keys or configure external model services for the AI features.
- Cloud synchronization requires setting up and maintaining your own external storage, Git host, or WebDAV server.
- Mobile applications for iOS and Android are currently in early Alpha and Beta development stages.
Pricing & license
NoteGen is free under its open-source license. However, using its AI features requires external model service API keys, which incur independent usage costs depending on your chosen provider.
Open remote AI-training roles
880 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 15, 2026; most pay $20–$175 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.
Alternatives
These reviewed AI tools do the same job instantly — from our scored directory.
Use it, or have us set it up
FAQ
Where are my notes actually stored?
Your notes are stored locally as standard Markdown files in a workspace directory of your choosing.
Can I use NoteGen without an AI connection?
Yes, you can use NoteGen as a local Markdown editor, capture tool, and visual canvas without configuring any AI providers.
How does synchronization work across devices?
You can sync your local workspace using external services such as GitHub, GitLab, S3-compatible storage, or WebDAV.
