The Editorial Verdict
Standard Notes positions itself as the note app that will still open your files in 30 years. The base editor stores plain text with encrypted metadata, and you can extend it with editors for Markdown, code, and rich text. Less polished than Obsidian, more durable. The free tier is genuinely usable.
Core Capabilities
- E2E Encrypted
- Long-Term Format
- Extensible Editors
Replacing Proprietary Software
Standard Notes is designed as an open, verifiable replacement for Evernote. Migrating to it gives you direct control over your infrastructure, eliminates recurring subscription fees, and prevents proprietary platform lock-in.