Notion vs Obsidian for solo researchers
If you collect sources, take literature notes, and publish summaries, you need a tool that fits how you think. Notion feels like a flexible database with views. Obsidian feels like a fast notebook with links.
Core differences
- Notion: pages live in databases, you get tables, boards, and calendars.
- Obsidian: local Markdown files, backlinks, and a graph view.
Writing experience
Notion shines for structured notes and templates. Obsidian shines for quick capture, link as you write, and offline use.
Research workflows
- Notion: reading lists, project dashboards, client portals.
- Obsidian: literature notes, evergreen notes, idea linking.
Collaboration and sharing
Notion shares easily with clients and teams. Obsidian can publish, but sharing is less central.
Pricing starter tiers
Both start free, paid plans unlock collaboration or publishing.
Pros and cons
| Tool | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Notion | Templates, views, easy sharing | Heavy for pure writing |
| Obsidian | Speed, links, plugins, offline | Learning curve, limited sharing |
Recommendations
- Pick Notion if you deliver research to clients or a team.
- Pick Obsidian if you write solo and want deep linking.
- You can run both: Obsidian for notes, Notion for dashboards.