Zim
Zim lets you create a personal wiki with linked notes, images and attachments in local files.
Developer Zim-project
Version 0.77.2 · Open source · Windows · macOS · Linux
Looking for an alternative to Zim?Compare CherryTree, Standard Notes, Microsoft OneNote, Simplenote.Compare alternativesIn Zim you build a collection of pages that can refer to each other. For example, you can link a project page to meeting notes, tasks and background information. The data is stored in wiki formatted text files and a folder structure, so you do not depend on one closed document format. Easy formatting and images are available; plug-ins add features such as task lists and version management. Zim is not a joint online wiki with automatically managed accounts. If you synchronize the folder yourself, you should also take into account simultaneous changes.
Compare Zim with alternatives
Do you want a hierarchy of notes, a free canvas or simple synchronization? It determines which note app connects. Also note attachments, offline access and export: not every program completely converts the layout and links of a notebook to another format.
| Software | What can it do? | Platform and licence |
|---|---|---|
| ZimYou are viewing this app | You can create a personal wiki with linked pages and local storage. This is suitable for notes that you want to organize via links. | Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source |
| CherryTreeView this alternative | You organize notes in a tree and combine text with code fragments and attachments. You work with your own note file that you save. | Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source |
| Standard NotesView this alternative | You save notes with encrypted synchronization and can use additional editors depending on your subscription. Check which functions you need without a paid plan. | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSFreemium |
| Microsoft OneNoteView this alternative | You combine text, images and handwritten notes on freely assignable pages. The synchronization connects to your Microsoft account. | Windows, macOS, Android, iOSFreemium |
| SimplenoteView this alternative | You synchronize simple text notes with labels and version history. For extended page formatting and large attachments, another note app is more targeted. | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSOpen source |
More alternatives to Zim (1)
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Day One
You keep a digital diary with text and media, linked to days and events. This is particularly useful for personal reporting.
macOS, Android, iOS, Web · Freemium
Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.
Who is it for?
You use Zim for a personal knowledge archive, diary or project notes that you want to store locally. It fits a method with many references.
Getting started
Follow the download instructions for your operating system. Choose a fixed folder for your notebook and check which additional parts your desired plugins need.
Privacy
Your notes are listed as local files in your notebook folder. Encryption and any cloud synchronization can be arranged separately; saving locally does not mean that other users of your PC cannot read anything.
Good to know
Zim doesn't arrange his own synchronization service. If you share note folders with multiple devices, you should consider file conflicts yourself.
Please note
Do not edit the same notebook simultaneously on different devices via a common synchronization folder. Back up both the text files and the attachments.
Advantages
- You can link pages to each other.
- Your data remains in readable text files.
- You can add functions with plug-ins.
Things to consider
- Synchronization is up to you.
- The format is easier than in a word processor.
- Some plug-ins require additional software.
Download Zim
The download page opens in a new tab.
Provider’s website · zim-wiki.org
Version history
0.77.2
The current Zim edition is 0.77.2. The offered Windows installer is intended for a 64-bit environment and tested on Windows 11.
Older and 32-bit Windows systems are not supported by that installer. Check the additional parts of your plug-ins when you switch.
Report a new version
Our verdict
Zim is suitable if you want to build a local note archive with wikilinks. The open file structure is attractive, provided you provide backups and an appropriate synchronization process.
The choice is especially useful if you want to build your own reference work that stays in local files. Wikilinks give coherence without creating a new folder for each link. Check what ends up in the notebook folder with images and attachments and take that into your reserve. If you especially want to switch between devices without equipment, consider organizing synchronization and recovery as a real management burden.
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