AFFiNE

Open SourceMPL-2.0Self-hostable

The open-source, local-first workspace that merges docs, infinite whiteboards and databases into one canvas — a more visual Notion and Miro alternative you fully own.

Open source alternative to

Notion

Miro

Visit AFFiNE View source

About AFFiNE

AFFiNE is what you reach for when your thinking doesn't fit neatly into pages OR canvases — because it gives you both in one tool. Structured docs, an infinite whiteboard and databases live on the same surface, so a document can become a mind-map or a slide deck with a click.

It's local-first and built on CRDTs, which means your data lives on your device, syncs conflict-free, and works fully offline. Self-host the sync server with Docker or use AFFiNE Cloud — either way you keep ownership Notion can't offer.

MPL-2.0 licensed with one of the fastest-growing communities in the space, AFFiNE is the open answer for people torn between Notion for writing and Miro for visual thinking.

Key features

Docs + whiteboard + database — One canvas where pages, infinite whiteboards and databases blend — switch modes with a click.
Local-first & offline — CRDT-based storage keeps your data on-device, synced conflict-free when you reconnect.
Edgeless mode — Turn any doc into a spatial canvas for mind-maps, diagrams and presentations.
Self-host or cloud — Run the sync server with Docker or use AFFiNE Cloud — your choice, your data.

The honest read

What we like

Docs, whiteboards and databases genuinely unified
Local-first with conflict-free offline sync
Beautiful, modern editor experience
Self-hostable with Docker
Very active development and community

Worth knowing

Younger and less battle-tested than Notion
Fewer integrations and templates
Collaboration features still maturing
Can feel unfocused if you only need plain notes

FAQ

Is AFFiNE free to use?

Yes — AFFiNE is free and open source under the MPL-2.0 license. You can self-host it at no cost, or pay for AFFiNE Cloud if you want managed sync.

How is AFFiNE different from Notion?

AFFiNE is local-first and open source — your data lives on your device and can be self-hosted — and it adds an infinite whiteboard mode Notion doesn't have. Notion is cloud-only and closed-source.

Can AFFiNE replace Miro?

For personal and small-team visual thinking, yes — its Edgeless mode gives you an infinite canvas with shapes, connectors and embeds. Enterprise Miro workflows may still need Miro.

Does AFFiNE work offline?

Yes — it's local-first by design, so everything works offline and syncs conflict-free when you reconnect.

Can I self-host AFFiNE?

Yes — the sync server ships as a Docker image, so a small server keeps your whole workspace under your control.