Standard Notes for Mac

Explore Standard Notes by standardnotes, an encrypted note-taking app built for private, long-term storage. It synchronizes notes across desktop and mobile devices while keeping content under client-side control. The project emphasizes maintainable code and public auditability via its open development model. It supports Macs on current desktop releases for both Intel and Apple Silicon, and targets privacy advocates, journalists, developers, and professionals who need a privacy-first notes environment.

What technical guarantees does the app provide for stored content?

Standard Notes encrypts data locally using modern cryptography, applying XChaCha-20-Poly1305 before any sync operations. The app exposes an open-source codebase for public review and includes note history and revision tracking to restore previous versions. In addition, the architecture supports tag-based organization plus pinning and archiving, and access can be protected with a passcode or platform biometrics.

Does syncing and encryption affect everyday system use?

Encryption occurs on the user device, then synchronization runs in the background. Offline edits are allowed and changes automatically sync when a connection returns. The client supports both mainstream desktop architectures, so performance depends on device and dataset size rather than a single-resource profile. No explicit CPU or RAM figures are published; typical operation centers on local write and background network activity.

Is it safe to use for sensitive work and audits?

The zero-knowledge model prevents server-side reading of notes. Because keys remain with the user, the developer cannot decrypt content on their servers. The option to self-host syncing servers gives technically proficient users full control over server-side data. Automated encrypted backups to external storage are offered through higher-tier product plans, adding an extra recovery path for critical archives.

Do I need technical knowledge to access advanced features or host my data?

The core app serves straightforward note tasks, while advanced control requires more setup. An extensible design lets users swap editors and themes without migrating data, but unlocking advanced editors (Markdown, Rich Text, code-focused editors) is tied to Productivity and Professional plans. Self-hosting the server components is supported, and that path requires familiarity with server deployment and maintenance.

A pragmatic choice for privacy-minded professionals, with a governance caveat

Standard Notes is a dependable option for users who prioritize long-term, private note storage and public auditability. The April 2024 acquisition by Proton AG introduces a new governance context for the project; users who prefer strictly independent hosting or governance should note that integration intentions exist while the developer maintains the open-source codebase.