I’m searching for a note-taking platform I can host myself that includes these key features:
Database functionality similar to what you’d find in Notion (tables with relationships between entries)
Strong markdown editing capabilities with export options
I’ve already checked out several options like Outline, Affine, Docmost, and Appflowy, but none of them seem to offer both features together.
Does anyone know of other alternatives that might work? I’m trying to avoid Obsidian since I already know about it and want to explore different options first.
Had this same problem six months ago when I ditched Notion for privacy reasons. Tested tons of options and landed on Logseq - wasn’t even on my list initially. It’s graph-based but handles relational data through block references and queries. Markdown support is solid with good export options. The database stuff isn’t as visual as Notion’s tables, but you can build structured data with properties and advanced queries. Also check out Trilium Notes - good hierarchical setup and custom attributes that work like database fields. Steeper learning curve than most note apps, but the flexibility is worth it once you get the hang of it.
you might wanna look at BookStack - it’s got that wiki vibe wit good markdown and organization. searchin’ and linkin’ is smooth, tho it’s not exactly like Notion’s tables. SiYuan Notes is also gettin’ some buzz for structured data in markdown editors.
I’ve used TiddlyWiki for two years and it sounds perfect for you. Yeah, the learning curve’s steep, but once you get tiddlers and transclusion, it’s incredibly powerful for database stuff. You can make custom templates, data tiddlers with structured fields, and build dynamic tables that auto-update when you change the underlying data. Markdown isn’t built-in but plugins work great, and you’ve got tons of export options. Also check out Dendron if you use VS Code - it mixes hierarchical notes with schema-based structured data. The database features aren’t as robust as Notion but they’ll handle most things you need.