Users Abandon Notion for Trilium Next’s Instant Knowledge Base

UPDATE: Users are rapidly migrating from Notion to Trilium Next, a self-hosted knowledge base, as frustrations over Notion’s sluggish performance and internet dependency mount. As of November 2023, many users report that Trilium Next offers a speedier, more efficient alternative that significantly enhances their productivity.

The urgency of this shift stems from increasing demands for real-time access to notes and ideas. Notion’s promise of flexibility has come with a hidden cost: constant loading times and reliance on external servers. Users describe the experience as “unbearable,” particularly when they require immediate access to their thoughts during meetings or brainstorming sessions.

Trilium Next, a free, open-source application, runs entirely on local devices, providing instantaneous access to notes without the lag that has become synonymous with Notion. Users can install Trilium Next on Windows, macOS, or Linux in just five minutes—no technical expertise required. This shift marks a significant moment for those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their note-taking processes.

The appeal of Trilium Next lies in its unique features, including a hierarchical organization system that allows users to create interlinked notes effortlessly. Users can clone notes across different categories, ensuring they can reference ideas without duplicating content. This level of organization solves a critical problem faced by Notion users, where notes often fit into multiple categories.

Moreover, Trilium Next enhances functionality with JavaScript scripting capabilities, allowing users to automate tasks and customize their knowledge base. This flexibility empowers users to create personalized solutions without the limitations found in Notion’s environment.

For many, the transition has been enlightening. One user noted, “I didn’t switch away from Notion because I hated it. I switched because I started unconsciously avoiding it.” The immediate access provided by Trilium Next transformed their knowledge management experience from a tedious task into an engaging, dynamic process.

While the migration process is not without its challenges—Notion’s export format can be messy—users have found that the benefits far outweigh the initial hurdles. Many describe the change as liberating, with the absence of loading delays allowing them to engage with their notes more actively.

However, experts caution that Trilium Next may not suit everyone. For teams that rely on collaborative features, Notion’s real-time editing and polished interface are still unparalleled. Nonetheless, for individuals seeking a personal knowledge base that prioritizes speed, control, and autonomy, Trilium Next emerges as a compelling choice.

As digital productivity continues to evolve, this shift highlights the growing importance of user experience in knowledge management tools. With Trilium Next gaining momentum, the landscape of personal knowledge bases may be on the brink of significant change.

Users are encouraged to consider their specific needs carefully, balancing the aesthetic and collaborative benefits of Notion against the speed and functionality of Trilium Next. The future of knowledge management is unfolding, and it is happening right now.