Nolio
Nolio: A free open-source vault for structured notes with per-note encryption. Ranked #28 of 30 in Secure Notes Apps by our editors (6.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for open-source encrypted hierarchical notes.
At a glance
- Editor score6.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forOpen-source encrypted hierarchical notes
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Encryption modelLocal
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- AES-256-GCM encryption applied per note
- Nested pages, rich editing, tasks, tables, images, and links
- Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android coverage
Where it doesn't
- The published platform list does not include iOS
- Local vault storage may not suit cloud-sync-first workflows
- A master password is required for encrypted backup protection
Our verdict on Nolio
Nolio is a free, open-source notes application for people who want structured information stored in a locally encrypted vault. Its editor supports rich text, tasks, tables, images, links, slash commands, search, favorites, trash, and restore. Nested pages and unlimited subpages make it suitable for organizing projects, reference material, and personal knowledge. Access is available through a browser Progressive Web App, native Windows, macOS, and Linux applications, and an Android application.
Security is the product’s clearest focus. Nolio uses AES-256-GCM encryption for individual notes and derives encryption keys with Argon2id. Configurable automatic vault locking adds control over when the vault closes, while encrypted vault backup export and import provide a way to move protected data using a master password. These features make Nolio a strong fit for users who prioritize local control and open-source software over a broader connected workspace.
Its organization tools give the encrypted vault more depth than a plain text notebook. A command palette supports search and navigation, desktop sticky-note widgets provide a quick-access option, and favorites, recent notes, trash, and restore cover common note-management tasks. The platform range is broad across desktop and web, with Android included, but iOS is not part of the listed coverage. Choose Nolio for private, hierarchical notes across supported platforms; choose another option if iOS access or a cloud-sync-first workflow is central to your requirements.
Your product? Our editors can test Nolio in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
Nolio pricing
Nolio fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Encryption model | Local |
| Offline access | Not verified |
| Open source | Yes |
| File attachments | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | web, windows, macos, linux, android |
| Export formats | Not verified |
| Deployment | Cloud, Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Nolio
- JoplinA flexible, low-cost choice for encrypted notes across desktop, mobile, and web.9.2
- Standard NotesA privacy-focused notes app with offline editing and several editor types.9.0
- NotesnookA low-cost encrypted notes app with broad platform coverage and useful integrations.8.8
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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