AFFiNE Features
Three Modes in One
| Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Docs | Block-based editor like Notion — headings, lists, tables, code, embeds |
| Whiteboard | Infinite canvas like Excalidraw — draw, connect, brainstorm |
| Database | Structured data like Airtable — tables, Kanban, calendar views |
Switch between modes seamlessly. A document can contain whiteboard sections, and a whiteboard can embed document blocks.
Local-First Architecture
- Works completely offline
- Data stored locally on your device
- Syncs when internet is available
- No data loss on connection drops
- End-to-end encryption for synced data
Block-Based Editor
Slash commands, drag-and-drop blocks, Markdown shortcuts:
- Text, headings, lists, toggles
- Code blocks with syntax highlighting
- Tables and databases
- Images, videos, embeds
- LaTeX math formulas
- Mermaid diagrams
AI Features
- Writing assistance (improve, expand, summarize)
- Document summarization
- Translation
- Tone adjustment
Real-Time Collaboration
Invite teammates to edit documents simultaneously with live cursors and presence indicators.
Cross-Platform
- Web app (any browser)
- Desktop: macOS, Windows, Linux
- Mobile: iOS, Android
- All platforms sync via AFFiNE Cloud or self-hosted backend
FAQ
Q: What is AFFiNE? A: AFFiNE is an open-source Notion alternative with 66,900+ GitHub stars combining docs, whiteboards, and databases. Local-first, privacy-focused, with AI writing assistance.
Q: How is AFFiNE different from Notion? A: AFFiNE is open-source and local-first (works offline, you own your data). Notion requires internet and stores data on their servers. AFFiNE also has a built-in whiteboard mode that Notion lacks.
Q: Is AFFiNE free? A: The core is open-source under MIT. The web/desktop apps are free. AFFiNE Cloud has a free tier for syncing.