Zettlr
Zettlr helps you write longer texts and notes in Markdown, with support for source references and exports.
Developer Zettlr-project
Version 4.8.0 · Open source · Windows · macOS · Linux
Looking for an alternative to Zettlr?Compare QOwnNotes, Typora, Obsidian, Joplin.Compare alternativesYou manage write projects as files and folders, while Zettlr adds features for navigation, referrals and publication. The app is useful for a thesis, article or larger note archive. You can connect to a reference manager and export text in different forms. This makes the process more extensive than a simple text editor. For a reliable export, you also have to take into account the chosen template, bibliography and any tools such as Pandoc. Your source files remain locally available and can also be opened outside Zettlr.
Compare Zettlr with alternatives
For notes, the storage format is an important choice: single Markdown files, own database or encrypted synchronization. See how to export links, attachments and labels. This way you avoid a switch only taking your text and losing the structure of your note archive.
| Software | What can it do? | Platform and licence |
|---|---|---|
| ZettlrYou are viewing this app | You write and organize Markdown documents with functions for longer texts and literature references. This is in line with study, research and text projects. | Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source |
| QOwnNotesView this alternative | You edit notes as local text files and can link them to your own synchronization solution. That gives you direct access to the files outside the app. | Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source |
| TyporaView this alternative | You edit Markdown in a view that shows the formatting during writing. You choose this editor especially for the writing experience with loose files. | Windows, macOS, LinuxPaid |
| ObsidianView this alternative | You work with local Markdown files and connect notes via links and a graph. Add many additional features with plug-ins. | Windows, macOS, LinuxFreemium |
| JoplinView this alternative | You save notes and tasks with Markdown, attachments and optional encrypted synchronization. You can choose how to synchronize between devices. | Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source; additional paid services |
Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.
Who is it for?
You use Zettlr when you write longer texts and want to manage links. It is especially interesting if you want to combine Markdown with a more extensive publication process.
Getting started
Download the version for Windows, macOS or Linux. Open a separate project folder and then set your references and export preferences.
Privacy
Zettlr does not require mandatory cloud synchronization and stores files locally. If you use a shared folder, external service or online content, additional privacy choices apply.
Good to know
Some publication and export methods require additional tools. Test a small document with your citations and format before converting a large write project.
Please note
Check a trial export with headers, images and source references before delivering a complete document. A good-looking editor view does not guarantee the same format in any export format.
Advantages
- You work with local Markdown files.
- You can include source references in your writing process.
- You have multiple possibilities for export and organization.
Things to consider
- The method of publication requires some facilities.
- Exports can use additional tools.
- You have to check templates and references yourself.
Download Zettlr
The download page opens in a new tab.
Provider’s website · www.zettlr.com
Version history
4.8.0
You can use striking note and warning blocks in Markdown and get improved translations.
- Markdown now supports special blocks for notes, tips, warnings and important information, with its own header line.
- The search feature contains a correction for a long-standing logical problem.
- Translations and performance have been updated on several points.
4.7.0
You can change more keyboard shortcuts and choose the editor theme separately from the main theme.
Conflicting shortcuts give you a warning. Not every command is already customizable; the available list is the starting point.
Report a new version
Our verdict
Zettlr fits with writing where structure and reusable source files are important. For a quick loose note it has been extended, but for longer projects this design offers proper guidance.
The app especially adds something to a longer write project with structure, references and a planned output format. First, make a small document with those real parts and assess the export. If you write mainly short memories, a less extensive note app is enough. For a larger project, an early controlled output route prevents you from discovering that images or references end up differently than intended.
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