Logseq vs Obsidian vs Note Cargo: Which is better? (2026)
Logseq is an open-source outliner knowledge base with graph views. Obsidian is a local-first knowledge base with a rich plugin ecosystem.
TL;DRObsidian is a local-first app with a rich plugin ecosystem. Logseq is an open-source outliner with graph views and bi-directional linking.
Note Cargo is web-based, stores standard Markdown in your own S3/R2 bucket, and runs on ~30 MB RAM - always in sync.
Obsidian wins on plugins and offline. Logseq wins on graph and outliner workflow. Note Cargo wins on sync simplicity and data stability.
Logseq
Obsidian
Note Cargo
Pricing
Data & Privacy
Platform
Markdown & Portability
Collaboration
Self-Hosting
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most portable - Obsidian, Logseq, or Note Cargo?
Note Cargo and Obsidian both use standard Markdown files. Logseq's legacy version does too, but the new DB version uses a proprietary format. For long-term portability, Note Cargo and Obsidian are the safer bets.
Which app is lightest on system resources?
Note Cargo wins. It runs as a web app using ~30 MB RAM on the server. Obsidian and Logseq both use Electron and can consume hundreds of MB of RAM on your device.
Which has the best sync story across devices?
Note Cargo syncs automatically via your S3/R2 bucket - any browser, any device, no extra cost. Obsidian requires a paid Sync add-on or complex DIY setup. Logseq's DB version uses their cloud (no self-host). Note Cargo is the simplest.
Do any of these support self-hosting?
Note Cargo is fully self-hosted via Docker with your own S3/R2 bucket. Obsidian has no self-hosted sync - you use their service or DIY. Logseq's DB version has no self-hosted sync option. Note Cargo is the only true self-hosted option.
Ready to switch to Note Cargo?
Self-hosted, Markdown-native, stored in your own S3/R2. One-time payment, no subscriptions.