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VaultNote – Local-first encrypted note-taking in the browser

VaultNote – Local-first encrypted note-taking in the browser

by powerwild·Mar 6, 2026·3 points·1 comment
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AI Analysis

●MidCozySolve My Problem

Local-first AES encryption notes, but crowded space with Obsidian, Notion, Logseq alternatives.

Strengths
  • •True zero-trust: no backend, no login, no telemetry; data never leaves device
  • •AES master-password encryption with IndexedDB storage is straightforward and auditable
  • •Tree-structured organization and import/export for backup flexibility
Weaknesses
  • •Encrypted note-taking apps are crowded (Obsidian, Notion, Apple Notes, Logseq, Standard Notes); no distinguishing feature
  • •No sync across devices without manual export/import; severely limits utility for modern workflows
Category
Productivity
Target Audience

Students and professionals seeking offline, privacy-first note-taking without accounts

Similar To

Obsidian (local-first markdown) · Standard Notes (encrypted notes) · Logseq (privacy-focused outliner)

Post Description

Hi HN,

I built VaultNote, a local-first note-taking app that runs entirely in the browser.

Key ideas:

- 100% local-first: no backend or server - No login, accounts, or tracking - Notes stored locally in IndexedDB / LocalStorage - AES encryption with a single master password - Tree-structured notes for organizing knowledge

The goal was to create a simple note app where your data never leaves your device. You can open the site, enter a master password, and start writing immediately.

Since everything is stored locally, VaultNote also supports import/export so you can back up your data.

Curious to hear feedback from the HN community, especially on:

- the security approach (local AES encryption) - IndexedDB storage design - local-first UX tradeoffs

Demo: https://vaultnote.saposs.com

Thanks!

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