AFFiNE

AFFiNE is an open-source knowledge base software that merges docs, whiteboards, databases, and AI in one local-first workspace. It targets individual creators, small teams, and enterprises seeking a Notion plus Obsidian alternative with more control over data. The product emphasizes local data ownership and self-hosting options while offering cloud capabilities through its plans. It is a unified canvas for writing, drawing, planning, and knowledge organization within a single workspace.

AFFiNE supports self-hosting on users' devices and aims to provide full features without compromising the local-first model. It enables content to be built with blocks, facilitates visual thinking with boards, and integrates AI workflows. The platform highlights collaboration, real-time editing, and data portability across devices, with options to extend functionality via templates and third-party integrations.

AFFiNE provides templates for various project types and a modular block-based editor to structure information. It combines documents, presentations, and task planning within one environment, and includes AI add-ons for drafting, summarizing, and organizing content. The project promotes open-source development and community contributions as part of its knowledge base and collaboration capabilities.

It emphasizes transparency through open-source licensing, self-hosting, and a permissive editor license, while maintaining options for enterprise-grade deployments and managed cloud features on higher-tier plans.

Use cases

• Build internal knowledge bases and team wikis
• Plan projects and visualize ideas