The introduction of Trilium, a self-hosted, open-source note-taking application, may prompt users to reconsider their reliance on Google Keep. While Google Keep has long been a favorite for many due to its simplicity and seamless integration within the Google ecosystem, Trilium offers a more structured approach to note organization and data ownership, making it an appealing alternative.
Trilium’s Structured Approach
Trilium distinguishes itself through its hierarchical organization. Unlike Google Keep, which resembles a collection of sticky notes with limited structure, Trilium allows users to create parent notes and nest child notes, offering a deeper organizational framework. This structure enables users to manage complex projects and research effectively, providing a clearer path for connecting ideas without losing track of them.
One notable feature of Trilium is its focus on data ownership. Users retain full control over their notes, which are stored on their own Network Attached Storage (NAS) or server. This setup ensures that notes can be backed up and restored easily, eliminating the risk of losing valuable information due to sudden service disruptions. With proper backup policies in place, users can confidently manage their data without concern.
Advanced Features and User Control
Trilium’s capabilities extend beyond simple note-taking. The application scales effectively, adapting to varied use cases, including serving as a personal knowledge management system. It offers a comprehensive text editing interface that includes rich formatting options, enabling users to incorporate images, code snippets, and tables into their notes.
The tag-based organization system in Trilium is a significant improvement over Google Keep’s labeling method. Users can apply multiple tags to individual notes, allowing for flexible filtering and easy retrieval of information, even from deep within the hierarchy. This functionality is particularly beneficial for writers and researchers who often need to access various pieces of information quickly.
Trilium also features a robust revision history, which allows users to recover previous versions of their notes. This feature is invaluable for anyone who has ever accidentally deleted important content. In addition to these practical tools, Trilium provides built-in encryption, ensuring that users’ notes are secure and accessible only by them.
The application also includes a visual representation of interconnected notes through its Note Map feature, reminiscent of Obsidian’s graph view. This tool allows users to visualize their personal knowledge graph, enhancing the overall experience of managing and connecting ideas.
While the transition to Trilium may seem daunting, many users are discovering its advantages. Currently, some individuals still use Google Keep for quick notes or temporary information, but Trilium is becoming the go-to solution for anything more significant. The combination of data ownership, organizational tools, and a rich text editor presents a strong case for making the switch.
In summary, as self-hosted applications continue to gain traction, Trilium stands out as a notable competitor to Google Keep. With its structured approach and advanced features, it offers a compelling alternative for users seeking more control and flexibility in their note-taking solutions.