A new self-hosted notes application, Trillium, is gaining attention for its potential to replace popular note-taking solutions like Google Keep. As users increasingly seek ownership of their data, Trillium offers features that cater to those looking for a more structured and secure alternative.
Many have relied on Google Keep for its simplicity and integration within the Google ecosystem. It comes pre-installed on Android devices, allowing users to easily sync notes across multiple platforms. However, the growing concern over data ownership and the limitations of Google Keep’s feature set have prompted some users to explore alternatives.
Trillium stands out by employing a tree-like hierarchy for note organization. Unlike Google Keep’s cluttered interface of colored cards, Trillium allows users to create parent notes and nest child notes, providing a more organized approach to managing information. This is especially beneficial for those handling complex projects or conducting research, as it enables easy navigation without losing track of important details.
Enhanced Control and Flexibility
One of the most significant advantages of Trillium is the control it offers over personal data. All notes are stored on a user’s own Network Attached Storage (NAS) or server, allowing for easy backup and restoration. Users are no longer at risk of sudden service shutdowns that could lead to data loss. With proper backup policies in place, retaining notes is straightforward and secure.
Trillium also scales with user needs. While many will use it primarily for note-taking, it can evolve into a comprehensive personal knowledge management system. Its rich text editor goes beyond the basic options found in Google Keep, allowing for advanced formatting, code snippets, and the inclusion of images. This feature is particularly advantageous for users who want to combine short notes with long-form writing.
Powerful Organizational Features
Tags in Trillium offer a robust organization system compared to Google Keep’s basic labels. Users can assign multiple tags to individual notes and filter their views based on these tags, enhancing the ability to locate specific notes. This flexibility ensures that valuable information is easily accessible, even when buried within extensive note hierarchies.
For writers and content creators, Trillium’s revision history feature is a notable asset. It allows users to restore previous versions of notes with a single click, providing a safety net against accidental deletions. This feature, along with built-in encryption, ensures that users maintain control over sensitive information.
Additionally, Trillium has a visual component similar to Obsidian‘s graph view, enabling users to visualize interconnected notes according to tags and relationships. This Note Map feature provides insight into how various ideas relate to one another, promoting better understanding and organization.
Despite the advantages of Trillium, some users, including those who have long used Google Keep, may still find value in its simplicity for everyday tasks. For quick notes or temporary information, Google Keep may suffice. However, for anything more significant, Trillium emerges as a compelling choice.
The transition from Google Keep to Trillium represents a shift towards greater data ownership and enhanced organizational capabilities. As users continue to explore self-hosted solutions, Trillium’s features position it as a worthy contender in the note-taking landscape, effectively meeting the needs of those requiring both functionality and control.
