Daylogue
ObsidianDaylogue vs Obsidian
Obsidian is beloved by power users for its local-first, linked-notes approach. Many use it for journaling. But it's a general-purpose tool, not a journaling app.
Obsidian is best for
Power users who want local-first, plain-text files with linked notes, extensive customization, and full control over their data.
Daylogue is best for
Users who want AI-powered journaling that works immediately, with encrypted sync and guided reflection out of the box.
Feature comparison
Different tools for different needs
| Feature |  Daylogue |  Obsidian |
|---|---|---|
| Local-first storage | No - encrypted cloud sync | Yes - files stay on your device |
| End-to-end encryption | Yes - zero-knowledge for stored content | Optional - via Obsidian Sync |
| AI journaling features | Yes - conversational with follow-ups, summaries, themes | Via plugins - not native |
| Linked notes / graphs | No - linear journal entries | Yes - powerful linking and graph view |
| Customization | Curated experience | Yes - extensive plugins and themes |
| Offline support | Yes - full offline functionality | Yes - works entirely offline |
| Voice journaling | Yes - with multi-language support | Via plugins only |
| Markdown support | Limited | Yes - native markdown |
| Simple setup | Yes - works immediately | Requires configuration |
| Data export | Yes - full export available | Yes - plain markdown files |
| Free tier available | Yes | Yes - core app is free |
Where Obsidian excels
Obsidian is a remarkable tool for the right user.
Where Daylogue is stronger
For users who want journaling, not note-taking.
AI that actually helps
Obsidian can add AI via plugins, but it's not integrated. Daylogue's AI asks follow-up questions, builds context over time, and generates insights automatically.
Zero configuration
Obsidian is powerful but requires setup. Vaults, plugins, themes, sync. Daylogue works the moment you open it.
Built for journaling
Obsidian is a general-purpose note tool. Daylogue is designed specifically for emotional reflection with mood tracking, check-ins, and recaps.
Encrypted cloud sync
Obsidian Sync is a paid add-on. Daylogue includes encrypted sync by default. Your data is encrypted before it leaves your device.
Guided reflection
Obsidian is a blank page. Daylogue asks questions and guides you through reflection, even if you don't know what to write.
Common questions
What is Obsidian?
Obsidian is a powerful markdown note-taking app that stores files locally on your device. It's known for linked notes, graph visualization, and extensive customization through plugins. Many people use it for journaling via the Daily Notes plugin.
Is Obsidian more private than Daylogue?
In some ways, yes. Obsidian stores files locally by default, so nothing ever leaves your device unless you set up sync. Daylogue uses encrypted cloud sync, meaning your data is encrypted before upload. Different models: Obsidian is local-first, Daylogue is encrypted-first.
Does Obsidian have AI features?
Not natively. You can add AI through community plugins, but it's not a built-in, integrated experience. Daylogue was designed around AI from the start, with conversation, follow-ups, and pattern recognition.
Can I use Obsidian for journaling?
Yes, many people do. The Daily Notes plugin creates a new note each day. But it's a blank page in a note-taking app. There's no mood tracking, no AI, no guided prompts unless you configure plugins.
Which is better for privacy purists?
Obsidian, probably. Local-only storage with plain text files is as private as it gets. If you want AI features with strong privacy, Daylogue offers encrypted cloud sync and transient AI processing.
Can I switch from Obsidian to Daylogue?
Obsidian uses plain markdown files, so you can easily review your history. You can start fresh with Daylogue and let our AI help build new insights. Direct import is not currently supported.