jrnl
jrnl: A free, local journal for terminal-focused users who want flexible text files. Ranked #15 of 35 in Journal Apps by our editors (7.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for private, flexible open-source desktop journaling.
At a glance
- Editor score7.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forPrivate, flexible open-source desktop journaling
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source with offline, local journal files
- Search by text, dates, and tags across multiple journals
- Exports to JSON, Markdown, plain text, XML, and YAML
Where it doesn't
- Command-line workflow may not suit users seeking a visual app
- Available on desktop platforms rather than web or mobile
- Installation uses pipx and Python 3.11 or newer
Our verdict on jrnl
jrnl is a free, open-source command-line journal for people who prefer terminal-based tools and local files. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and supports creating, viewing, searching, editing, and deleting dated entries. Natural-language dates, tags, starred entries, multiple journals, and external-editor support give text-focused writers flexibility without requiring a hosted service. Journals are stored as human-readable text files, with optional encryption for single-file journals.
The published product details point to a straightforward free offering rather than a tiered subscription model. jrnl includes offline access, text-based search, date and tag filters, and import and export tools. Export formats include JSON, Markdown, plain text, XML, and YAML, which supports moving journal content into other text-oriented workflows. An external editor can also fit users who prefer an established writing environment over entering longer entries directly in the terminal.
The main trade-off is its narrow interface and platform scope. Installation uses pipx and Python 3.11 or newer, and the product is a local command-line application rather than a hosted web or mobile service. That makes jrnl a strong choice for users who value privacy, ownership of readable files, offline access, and open-source software. Users seeking a visual journaling interface, browser access, or mobile journaling should choose an alternative built around those environments.
Your product? Our editors can test jrnl in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
jrnl pricing
jrnl fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Media attachments | Not verified |
| Offline access | Yes |
| Privacy lock | Yes |
| End-to-end encryption | Not verified |
| Export formats | Multiple |
| Platform coverage | Desktop |
| Search and filters | Yes |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | jrnl.sh |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to jrnl
- Day OneA broad, privacy-focused journal with a strong free tier and richer paid features.9.4
- DiariumDiarium combines rich journaling, contextual views, offline access and flexible storage options.9.2
- JourneyA flexible journal for private memories across desktop, mobile, and web.9.1
Also Ranked In
jrnl is ranked in 3 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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