Nolio review

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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.

Nolio pros and cons

• 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

Nolio fact sheet, pricing and score →

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update