What it does
mdnb is a Markdown notebook for macOS and iOS whose notes remain ordinary .md files in a folder. Its product page and documentation describe multiple workspaces, wikilinks and backlinks, full-text search, reminders and due dates, and optional Git sync. The vendor describes the app as free forever and links to both a macOS download and an iOS App Store listing.
mdnb takes a deliberately smaller approach than plugin-heavy knowledge systems: the notebook is a folder of Markdown files, with backlinks, a graph, search, reminders, and a command palette layered on top. The docs also describe optional Git sync, while the product page says a folder already synchronized through iCloud, Dropbox, or Git can be used. This leaves file ownership and sync choices visible rather than hiding them behind a proprietary database. The trade-off is a focused built-in feature set; the checked pages do not describe a large extension ecosystem or hosted team collaboration. The vendor links to Mac and iOS versions and states that mdnb is free. No hands-on testing was performed.
Strengths
- Notes remain standard Markdown files in a folder the user controls.
- Backlinks, graph view, full-text search, reminders, and Git sync are documented in addition to basic note editing.
- The product page links to macOS and iOS downloads and states that the product is free.
Watch out for
- mdnb is a focused editor rather than a broad plugin platform.
Best for
- People who want a native-feeling Markdown notebook with backlinks and local files
- Users who prefer folder-based or Git-based synchronization
Sources
- mdnb — A Markdown Notebook for macOS (Oct 25, 2026)
- mdnb Documentation (Oct 25, 2026)