SiYuan vs Trilium Notes
Detailed comparison to help you choose the right tool for your needs
S
SiYuan
Privacy-first local knowledge management with block-level references
4.5
Editorial RatingT
Trilium Notes
Powerful self-hosted hierarchical knowledge base
4.5
Editorial RatingQuick Comparison
Rating
4.5
vs4.5
Starting Price
Free
vsFree
Pricing Model
freemium
vsfree
Feature
SiYuan
Trilium Notes
Block-level references
Bidirectional linking
Spaced repetition
E2E encrypted sync
Math and diagrams
Mobile apps
Hierarchical notes
Rich text editor
Note relations and maps
Full-text search
Web clipper
Encrypted notes
SiYuan Pros
- Block-level referencing more granular than any competitor
- Spaced repetition built in for active learning
- End-to-end encrypted sync option for cross-device use
- Rich content support including math diagrams and code
- Desktop and mobile apps for all platforms
- Completely free for local use
SiYuan Cons
- Steeper learning curve than simpler note apps
- Block reference syntax takes time to master
- Cloud sync requires paid subscription
- Smaller community than Obsidian or Notion
- Interface can feel overwhelming for simple notes
- English documentation sometimes lags Chinese original
Trilium Notes Pros
- Powerful hierarchical organization
- Relation maps for knowledge graphing
- Desktop and server modes
- Code block syntax highlighting
- Excellent search
- Web clipper for research
Trilium Notes Cons
- UI looks dated compared to modern note apps
- Mobile experience via browser is limited
- Single developer project
- Learning curve for power features
- No native mobile app