Logseq is a knowledge management and collaboration platform. It offers a range of powerful tools to help ensure individuals or teams stay organized and productive.
It features an outlier-based design that makes it easy for users to create and edit outlines for different types of content. It has a block-level system that makes organizing work neat and easy to browse through.
Obsidian, on the other hand, is a personal knowledge base and note-taking application. It operates on Markdown files which is why you can use it for the traditional style of taking notes.
It utilizes a page-based approach whereby you have a plain canvas on which you can write all your notes.
Unlike the Logseq design which makes for a linear way of organizing your thoughts and knowledge, Obsidian allows you to be more flexible when structuring content since you can add things without adhering to a linear outline.
While both tools are good, they bear certain striking similarities and differences. A closer look at these two options should reveal the better choice.
Read on.
User Interface and Customization
Logseq
Logseq features a refined user interface that ensures even new users find their way around easily.
On the left side of the screen is a taskbar with different sections that include the Logseq Test, Journals, Flashcards, Graphs, Favorites, Recents, and Omniviore.
Right above the taskbar, you will find the search icon where you can find notes or people you have saved in the system. There are also Light icons that show when you are active, busy, or offline.
On the upper part of the screen are additional sections you can click on including Home, Extensions, and more. The user interface has a minimalist design which is why you won’t find any graphics, writings, or images that tend to create an impression of clutter.
This minimalist design is also part of the reason why the homepage loads fast. There is nothing slowing down the page so it opens up pretty quickly.
Logseq is quite customizable which is why you can use Flashcards or Whiteboards to design the layout. You also get over 30 different background themes to choose from.
What’s more, you can incorporate over 150 plugins just to make your work easier and to increase productivity.
Obsidian
The Obsidian user interface has some similarities to that of Logseq. For instance, it takes a minimalist approach to design which is why you won’t find any graphics or images on the homepage.
This is also part of the reason why it loads quickly. However, it differs slightly from Logseq because the left side of the screen has an expandable taskbar. That means if you click on the taskbar it opens up to reveal different features or functions.
Right above the taskbar, you can find the search icon which you can use to find the notes you have saved in the system. The lower left part of the taskbar features the Settings icon which you can navigate to in case you wish to make any adjustments.
If you do not like the default Obsidian look, you can always switch it up using different themes. Some themes even allow you to use dark and light modes.
Like Logseq, Obsidian supports the integration of third-party plugins. This helps ensure that you can connect things like Calendar, Kanban Boards, Dataview, and other productivity apps that you are already using.
Generally, there is not much of a difference when it comes to the interface and customization of both tools. They both load fast and can easily be customized even though Obsidian offers slightly more options for customization.
Outlining and Organization
Logseq
Logseq creates a daily note-taking area automatically. That means you do not have to do it manually. Instead, every day you will have a different page for the notes you want to take.
Another impressive thing about it is that it creates backlinks that let you connect notes. For instance, you can create a note about an upcoming meeting today and then on the next day add another note regarding the people that will attend.
The system can automatically link your two separate notes so that when you open one you can easily access the other. Keep in mind that all notes you input have a timestamp so you will be able to view everything in a linear manner.
Logseq also focuses on creating notes in a bullet point format. That makes it ideal for not only taking notes but also creating To-Do Lists.
Because the platform is built to enhance collaboration, it also allows you to tag people in notes or To-Do Lists.
It is worth pointing out that Logseq provides an infinite canvas where you can put down your thoughts and research points but also collaborate with other people.
Obsidian
Obsidian also features an infinite canvas where you can create notes. However, it allows you to use more than just a linear approach when it comes to creating notes.
Instead, you can write something down on the plain canvas and then later on add an arrow to it and write down a related thought or idea. Of course, you can also create notes by following the bullet point format if that is what you want.
Like Logseq, Obsidian lets you link your notes so that you can retrieve them easily.
For instance, you can write down something about a meeting you intend to have and then link it up with some of the ideas you have about the best venues and the cost of hiring the said venue.
You can also go one step further and link places, people, and even books. Obsidian also incorporates a graph feature that helps you visualize the relationship between your notes.
You can use the graph to get a better understanding of patterns and data as you create more notes on an ongoing basis. It is also worth noting that the platform allows you to create To-Do Lists so you can stay accountable.
Block vs Page-Based Approach
Logseq
Because Logseq leans more toward a block-based writing style, it is ideal for capturing short bursts of ideas. For example, the instant you think of something, you can jot it down and then research it later on and flesh it out on a different platform.
The good news is that you can write down short notes but then place them next to each other so that when you finally get down to working, you’ll have all the ideas collected in one place.
Obsidian
Because Obsidian takes the page-based approach, it is the better option for someone who has enough time and wants to write down as much as possible.
Keep in mind that you can write in paragraphs making it easier for you to create fleshed-out drafts rather than just capturing the most important points.
Plugins and Features
Logseq
Logseq makes it possible for you to organize work on flashcards. The cards can be color-coded for easier management. You also get whiteboards that you can use to brainstorm.
Another impressive feature is the workflow management system. Here, you can create tasks, assign them to team members, and monitor progress.
In case you are working with PDF files, you’ll be able to add annotations without having to use a separate tool. Because you may create a lot of notes within the system, you have the option of retrieving them by entering keywords into the search bar.
Of course, there is also the linking option that allows you to create a database of related information for quick reference. Logseq stores data on your local device and that makes it easier and faster to retrieve.
You are also in charge of the security of the data so you can rest assured that no third party will access the information without your permission.
Another impressive thing about this platform is that it supports many languages.
You can therefore switch from one language to another with the simple click of a button. In case you want to increase productivity, you can always search and add over 150 plugins.
Some plugins can be useful when you need to streamline communication with team members while others can help you work more efficiently.
A few examples of plugins you can add include are:
- PDF Export Plugin
- GPT-3 OpenAI
- Awesome Styler
- Emoji Picker
- Bionic Speedreader
- Move Block
Obsidian
Like Logseq, Obsidian stores data on your device. This means you are responsible for the security of the information you create.
Storing data on your device means even the developers of the tool cannot access your data and therefore you won’t have to worry about third-party entities accessing your personal information.
You can work in Obsidian whether you are online or offline and that makes it an ideal pick for anyone that is not always connected to the internet.
Obsidian utilizes open, non-proprietary files so you won’t have to worry about getting locked in. These types of files are also part of the reason why the system can store your data for a long time.
Creating links is relatively easy and makes it possible for you to retrieve related information even when they are written on different pages.
The platform offers fine-grained control. That means you can decide which files and preferences you wish to sync on different devices. Keep in mind that once you sync data, you can access it from any device.
Another impressive thing about Obsidian is that it keeps your version history. That means you can update your notes but still have a copy of the original content you created.
Obsidian has private and shared files. Your private files are only visible to you while the shared files are visible to everyone to whom you give access.
You can collaborate with team members on shared files and even allow them to contribute by writing on the same files. You get to secure your data using passwords and can even customize your work by adding personalized domains.
Obsidian supports hundreds of plugins to help streamline your work and boost productivity. In fact, a comparison of Obsidian and Logseq shows that the former has a more extensive plugin ecosystem.
Some examples of plugins you can add on Obsidian include
- Kanban
- Calendar
- Dataview
- Outliner
- GPT-4 OpenAI
- OmniSearch
Logseq vs Obsidian Pricing
Logseq
Currently, there is no cost for using Logseq. It is free, open-source software so you can even download the source code and make some adjustments if you have decent programming knowledge.
Obsidian
Obsidian is available to download and use completely free of charge as long as you use it for personal purposes.
If you intend to use it commercially, you’ll need to acquire the necessary license which goes for $50 per user per year.
Commercial use refers to a situation where an entity uses the software for the purpose of simplifying work-related issues.
The license covers the full package which means you’ll gain access to every feature and function of the software.
Community and Support
Logseq
Logseq has a relatively large user base so you can expect to find over 1,000 active users at any given time.
The good news is that the community is quite helpful and can therefore help you learn new things and even resolve issues quickly.
There is a Logseq community forum where you can ask questions and receive answers from other users. You can also get to enjoy tutorial videos posted by other users.
There is also a Logseq community presence on Discord so you can also join the platform to get help and tips that can be helpful to you.
While you can get in touch with the Logseq support staff through email, the response may not always come as quickly as you may want.
That is why getting help from the community is a better solution.
Obsidian
Based on the number of times the Obsidian app has been downloaded, it is safe to assume that it has over one million users around the world. This is a larger community compared to what you get on Logseq.
In case you want to resolve an issue or get tips on how to make your experience better, you can join the Obsidian community on Discord.
There you can ask questions, watch free tutorials by other users, and even connect with people who have similar interests.
There is also the Obsidian Forum where you can get answers to the questions that may be bothering you. Additionally, you can get in touch with the Obsidian support staff through email.
Take note that those who hold an Obsidian commercial license get priority support and will therefore have their issues resolved much faster.
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Mobile Apps
Logseq
In case you want to enjoy the benefits of Logseq on the go, you can always download the mobile app from the App Store. There is also an Android app version available directly from the main website.
You get to enjoy just about every feature and function that is available on the computer version of Logseq. That means you can use Whiteboards, create tasks and to-dos, backlink different notes, and integrate with other tools.
Obsidian
Obsidian also has an official mobile app so you won’t miss a beat when it comes to staying organized. You can download the app from Google Play or the App Store.
You get to enjoy just about every feature and function available on the computer version of Obsidian. There is a pull-down quick actions function that allows you to choose the action you want to undertake.
You also get to customize themes, switch to Graph view, and even connect different community plugins.
Use Case and Preference
Logseq
Logseq can be the best option for anyone who prefers outlining and block-based organization. It can be ideal for writing down short bursts of ideas which you can then research later.
Logseq can be a good option for students, journalists, and just about anyone who wants to create a personal diary.
Obsidian
Obsidian on the other hand can be the ideal pick for anyone that wants to write down a lot of notes and use paragraphs to make things neat. It provides the perfect workspace for you to flesh out your ideas.
Obsidian can be a good option for students, teachers, and even writers.
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Conclusion – Logseq vs Obsidian
There is no doubt that Logseq and Obsidian are among some of the best options for taking notes and creating a knowledge base. Both tools have their own strengths and weaknesses.
To pick the right tool, consider their use cases and features concerning what you want to achieve. For instance, if you want a platform for capturing short notes at no cost, Logseq can be an excellent choice,
However, if you want a note-taking platform that also provides a flexible workspace, Obsidian is the more suitable choice.
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