Hi there! I’m trying to move away from Google services and need help finding a calendar replacement. Here’s what I’m looking for:
Functions without internet connection
Compatible with Android phones and Linux computers
No payment required
Standard calendar stuff like repeating appointments, alerts, etc.
I don’t want to set up my own server since I’m not technical enough for that. I’m okay with using other companies’ services as long as they care about privacy and aren’t the big tech giants.
Ideally something that works great offline but can sync my data between devices when I’m connected to wifi.
Would really appreciate any suggestions for apps or services that fit these requirements!
I switched to Simple Calendar Pro two years ago and it’s been great. Works completely offline on Android, handles recurring events and notifications perfectly, and it’s open-source so no big tech companies involved. The downside? No Linux version. I just export my calendar as ICS files and import them when I need to - not automatic but it works for me. If you want proper cross-platform sync, try DAVx5 with a privacy-focused CalDAV service like Posteo or Disroot. They cost a few bucks monthly but actually care about privacy, and DAVx5 caches everything locally so you can still work offline.
Manual sync solutions like exporting ICS files get old fast. I used to do that until I got tired of forgetting to sync and missing appointments.
You need automation that handles offline/online switching seamlessly. I built a workflow that monitors my calendar sources and auto-syncs between my Android device and Linux machines whenever I connect to wifi.
Set it up once and forget about it. No more manual exports or remembering to sync. Works with any calendar source - privacy-focused CalDAV service or local files.
I can set it to backup my calendar data automatically and send alerts if sync fails. Handles multiple calendars if you have work/personal separation.
Runs in the background and just works. Way better than hoping I remember to manually sync.
Start with what’s already installed before adding new apps. Most Linux distros include Evolution or Kontact - both handle offline calendars perfectly and cover your basic needs. On Android, grab Etar Calendar. It’s free, open source, and keeps everything stored locally.
Syncing without cloud services is the tricky part. I use Syncthing to automatically sync calendar files between devices when they’re on the same network. No servers, no subscriptions - just direct device sync. Setup takes maybe 10 minutes, then you’re done. I’ve been running this setup over a year with zero issues.
Been there - ditched Google a few years back. Thunderbird’s my go-to on desktop. Handles CalDAV great and caches everything locally for offline work.
On Android I use OpenTasks with DAVx5. Syncs through CalDAV when online, works fine without internet.
Skip paid CalDAV services at first. Run Radicale on a cheap VPS for $3/month. I know you said no servers, but it’s super easy to set up. Most hosts have one-click installs.
Want zero servers? Try EteSync. End-to-end encrypted with Android and Linux clients. Works offline, syncs when connected. Free tier covers basic calendar stuff.
Using this setup 3 years across multiple devices. Never lost appointments and my data stays private.