Tomboy Notes
Tomboy Notes: A free, open-source desktop notes app for basic Windows and Linux note taking. Ranked #76 of 76 in Notes Apps by our editors (3.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for users needing basic notes on Windows or Linux.
At a glance
- Editor score3.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forUsers needing basic notes on Windows or Linux
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- Facts checked5 Oct 2026
Where it wins
- Free, open-source desktop note taking
- Organizes ideas and information
- Source code and release downloads are available
Where it doesn't
- The previous-generation project is no longer actively developed
- The described platform coverage is limited to Windows and Linux
- No hosted service is shown
Our verdict on Tomboy Notes
Tomboy Notes is a desktop note-taking application for organizing ideas and information. It is suited to solo users who need basic notes on Windows or Linux and prefer a free, open-source desktop app. The project is described as the previous generation of Tomboy, rather than the current active project, so it fits people seeking a straightforward legacy option more than those looking for an actively developed notes product.
The repository keeps the legacy project’s source code and release downloads available under the LGPL license. That gives users access to the project itself as well as downloadable releases. The offering is desktop-based, with Windows and Linux listed as supported platforms. No hosted service or commercial pricing is shown, so this is a local desktop choice rather than a service built around a hosted account. Users looking for a broader platform ecosystem should weigh that narrow scope before choosing it.
The main trade-off is project status: the repository says Tomboy is no longer actively developed and directs users to Tomboy-NG for current activity. That makes Tomboy Notes most appropriate for users whose needs are limited to basic desktop note taking and who are comfortable with a previous-generation project. Those who prioritize ongoing development or need capabilities beyond organizing ideas and information should consider the project it points to or another actively maintained alternative. Its free, open-source availability is useful, but the project’s legacy status should guide the decision.
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Tomboy Notes pricing
Tomboy Notes fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Offline access | Not verified |
| Sync model | Not verified |
| Markdown support | Not verified |
| Web clipper | Not verified |
| Device limit | Not verified |
| Shared collaboration | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, Linux |
| Built for | Solo (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 5 Oct 2026 |
Alternatives to Tomboy Notes
- EvernoteA broad note workspace for capture, search, tasks, calendar-linked notes, and sharing.9.4
- Google KeepA free, straightforward notes app for shared lists and everyday capture.9.2
- NotionA flexible workspace for shared knowledge, with a free plan and paid collaboration features.9.1
See all Tomboy Notes alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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