Logseq vs Obsidian: Which Productivity App Wins in 2026?
Choosing between Logseq and Obsidian? This comprehensive comparison covers pricing, features, pros and cons to help you make the right decision.
Quick Summary
Choose Obsidian if you want:
- Your data stays on your device
- Incredible plugin ecosystem
- Beautiful graph visualization
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Logseq | Obsidian |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 8.4/10 | 9/10 |
| Free Tier | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Starting Price | $5/mo | $8/mo |
| Category | Second Brain | Note-Taking Apps |
| Platforms | macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Founded | 2020 | 2020 |
Key Features
Logseq Features
- Bidirectional links
- Graph view
- Outliner
- Local storage
- Plugins
- Flashcards
- PDF annotation
- Queries
Obsidian Features
- Markdown files
- Bidirectional links
- Graph view
- Plugin ecosystem
- Custom themes
- Local-first storage
- Canvas
- Daily notes
Pros & Cons
Logseq
Pros
- + Free and open source
- + Local-first
- + Active development
- + Great plugins
- + Privacy focused
Cons
- - Steeper learning curve
- - Less polished
- - Sync can be tricky
- - Performance with large graphs
Obsidian
Pros
- + Your data stays on your device
- + Incredible plugin ecosystem
- + Beautiful graph visualization
- + Highly customizable
- + One-time payment for sync
Cons
- - Steeper learning curve
- - Sync requires paid add-on
- - No built-in collaboration
- - Can be complex for simple notes
Pricing Comparison
The Verdict
Both Logseq and Obsidian are excellent second brain tools, but they serve different needs.
Choose Logseq if: You value free and open source and local-first.
It's best for developers and privacy-conscious.
Choose Obsidian if: You prioritize your data stays on your device and incredible plugin ecosystem.
It's ideal for developers and researchers.
Logseq vs Obsidian FAQ
It depends on your needs. Logseq (8.4/10) excels at free and open source, while Obsidian (9/10) is known for your data stays on your device. Obsidian has the higher overall rating.
Both Logseq and Obsidian offer free tiers. Logseq's paid plan starts at $5/mo, while Obsidian starts at $8/mo.
Yes, many users combine Logseq and Obsidian in their productivity stack. You can connect them using automation tools like Zapier or Make. This works well if Logseq handles your bidirectional links while Obsidian manages markdown files.
Logseq offers: Bidirectional links, Graph view, Outliner. Obsidian provides: Markdown files, Bidirectional links, Graph view. The "better" features depend on what you need most.
Logseq has a steeper learning curve. Obsidian has a steeper learning curve. Both offer tutorials and onboarding to help you get started.
Logseq is available on macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android. Obsidian supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android. Both offer cross-platform sync.
For teams, consider: Logseq is more individual-focused. Obsidian is better for personal use.
Consider switching if Obsidian's strengths (Your data stays on your device, Incredible plugin ecosystem) address pain points you have with Logseq. Both tools typically offer data export, making migration possible. Test Obsidian with a free trial first.
Key differences: Pricing (free tier vs free tier), Focus (Second Brain vs Note-Taking Apps), Platforms (5 vs 5 platforms).
Logseq users love: Free and open source, Local-first. Common complaints: Steeper learning curve. Obsidian users appreciate: Your data stays on your device, Incredible plugin ecosystem. Common issues: Steeper learning curve.