siyuan
Privacy-first local knowledge workspace with block-level linking, SQL queries, and integrated AI assistant features.
Organize deep research and notes with block-level references, local Markdown, and integrated AI agents.
SiYuan is a privacy-first, local-first personal knowledge workspace designed to handle complex documents, block-level backlinks, and AI agent integration. If you need an executive workspace that keeps data local while connecting to AI services via API or MCP, SiYuan offers a structured alternative to cloud note apps.
What it is
SiYuan stores notes as structured content blocks with WYSIWYG Markdown editing, PDF annotations, and SQL database views. It includes native OpenAI API integration for Q&A and writing, Tesseract OCR, flashcard spaced repetition, and support for agentic AI tools.
Who it's for
It suits knowledge workers, executive assistants, and researchers who manage complex documentation and want full data ownership alongside AI features. It is less suited for users who prefer a zero-setup web app with default vendor cloud sync.
Key features
Block-Level Linking and SQL
Reference individual content blocks, create two-way links, and embed dynamic SQL queries inside your notes.
Local AI and OpenAI Integration
Perform AI writing and Q&A directly from your workspace using your own OpenAI API keys.
PDF Annotation and OCR
Extract text from images using built-in Tesseract OCR and link specific PDF parts directly to content blocks.
Multi-Platform Apps and Docker
Run natively on desktop, mobile, or host server environments via Docker container deployments.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- Supports fine-grained block-level referencing and dynamic SQL query embeds.
- Integrates directly with OpenAI APIs and agent workflows without sending content to third-party note clouds.
- Handles large-scale documents with million-word capacity and PDF annotation linking.
- Offers cross-platform apps for desktop, iOS, Android, and HarmonyOS alongside self-hosted Docker options.
Where it falls short
- Official cloud data synchronization and select advanced features require a paid subscription.
- Self-hosting via Docker requires configuring container permissions, workspace volume mounts, and access auth codes.
- Advanced database views and custom JavaScript/CSS snippets present a learning curve for non-technical users.
Pricing & license
SiYuan is free for core features under the AGPL-3.0 licence. Official cloud sync, cloud assets, and select add-on capabilities require a paid membership.
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
How does SiYuan store your note data?
SiYuan stores content locally in structured block formats, allowing standard Markdown exports alongside assets.
Can you run SiYuan on a remote server?
Yes, you can deploy the official Docker image using the serve subcommand with host-mounted workspace directories.
Is AI functionality included without external configuration?
AI features rely on external APIs like OpenAI, requiring you to provide your own API key in the application settings.
