Tomboy Notes review
A free, open-source desktop notes app for basic Windows and Linux note taking.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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.
Tomboy Notes pros and cons
- 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
Tomboy Notes fact sheet, pricing and score →
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