What it does
μPad (MicroPad) is a note-taking app that the project describes as free and open source. Its product page offers a browser version and desktop downloads, shows both linear and non-linear note examples, and says notes use a simple file format that can be exported to Markdown-formatted plain text. The page lists Windows, macOS, and Linux desktop builds; a separate μSync service is also mentioned.
Keep notes in a notebook that can leave the app
μPad is presented as a notebook for organizing ideas, with a browser edition and downloadable desktop builds. The official site shows examples of drawing and non-linear notes and emphasizes that its format can be exported as Markdown text. That file-format option is useful if you want an app for composing and organizing ideas but still want a path back to plain text instead of relying only on a vendor-managed format.
The official desktop release page lists v4.7.0-1, published on 2026-10-25; its notes say the underlying version remains 4.7.0 and the update adjusts macOS Gatekeeper signing. The project repository describes the web app and development setup, and the product site labels μPad free and open source. The site also links a distinct μSync service, whose plan and privacy terms were not assessed here. I did not create notes, test Markdown export, install a desktop build, or assess μSync.
Strengths
- The official site describes a free and open-source notebook with both browser and desktop access.
- Markdown-formatted plain-text export gives users a documented way to take notes out of the app.
- Current Windows, macOS, and Linux desktop download links are listed on the product page.
Watch out for
- The product page separates the app from the μSync service, so hosted synchronization, backup, and service terms need their own review.
Best for
- Students or personal knowledge workers who want an open-source notebook with a plain-text export path
- People who want browser access plus downloadable desktop builds
Sources
- μPad | Take and organise notes for free (Oct 25, 2026)
- MicroPad Core | Official Repository (Oct 25, 2026)
- MicroPad Electron v4.7.0-1 Release | GitHub (Oct 25, 2026)