Comparison
JotSpan vs Obsidian
Obsidian is a notes app built on Markdown files that you can shape into almost anything, daily notes included. JotSpan does one job: it keeps your tasks and a timeline of your day, with nothing to set up.
At a glance
| JotSpan | Obsidian | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A to-do list and work journal | A notes app built on local Markdown files |
| Setup | None: type a task and press Enter | Choose templates and plugins for daily notes and tasks |
| Timestamps | Recorded for every start, pause, completion and reflection | Typed yourself, or added by a template or plugin |
| Task switching | One active task; starting another pauses it automatically | Check off or move tasks yourself |
| Where your data lives | Your account | Files on your own device |
| Getting data out | JSON export | Already plain Markdown files |
Based on Obsidian’s publicly described features as of ; check Obsidian’s own site for the latest. Obsidian is a trademark of its owner, and JotSpan isn’t affiliated with it.
When Obsidian is the better choice
If you want a long-term knowledge base, linked notes, your own files on your own device and a system you can extend with plugins, Obsidian is built for that and JotSpan isn’t.
When JotSpan is the better choice
If your daily note is really a log of what you worked on, JotSpan keeps it for you. Starting a task records the time, switching pauses the last one, and your reflections fall into place between them. There’s nothing to configure and nothing to keep in sync by hand.
Using both
Keep ideas and reference notes in Obsidian, and use JotSpan for the day itself.
Questions.
Does JotSpan store Markdown files?
No. Entries are saved to your account, and you can export everything as JSON from Settings.
Does JotSpan have links or backlinks between reflections?
No. Reflections are short entries on your timeline. Search finds any of them by a word you remember.
Start with the task on your mind.
Type it, press Enter, and you’re working. Write a reflection before you switch.