jrnl review
A free, local journal for terminal-focused users who want flexible text files.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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.
jrnl pros and cons
- 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
jrnl fact sheet, pricing and score →
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