AFFiNE vs Notion: Features, Pricing and User Reviews 2026
AFFiNE
Open-Source Workspace for Docs, Whiteboards & Databases

Notion
All-in-One Workspace for Teams & Projects

AFFiNE
Open-Source Workspace for Docs, Whiteboards & Databases

Notion
All-in-One Workspace for Teams & Projects

What are AFFiNE and Notion?
AFFiNE is a workspace application that brings together three main tools in one place: documents for writing and note-taking, whiteboards for visual thinking and drawing, and databases for organizing information. Unlike cloud-first tools, AFFiNE takes a local-first approach, which means your data lives on your computer first and only syncs to the cloud if you choose.
You can switch between document mode and whiteboard mode easily, turning any page into a drawing canvas and back again. This flexibility helps you work the way your mind works, not the way the software forces you to work. AFFiNE is completely open-source, meaning the code is public and can be customized. It works on Windows, Mac, Linux, and has mobile apps too.
Notion is a versatile all-in-one workspace that functions like a set of digital building blocks. Think of it as a combination of Google Docs, Trello, Airtable, and Evernote all rolled into one seamless platform. Every page in Notion is built using 'blocks' - individual pieces of content like text, images, databases, or embedded files that you can arrange however you want.
What sets Notion apart is its flexibility. You can create simple notes, complex project management systems, company wikis, or personal journals using the same tool. The platform supports real-time collaboration, allowing teams to work together on documents, databases, and projects simultaneously. With templates for common use cases and the ability to create custom workflows, Notion scales from personal use to enterprise-level operations while maintaining simplicity and elegance.
Features of AFFiNE and Notion
Local-first data storage with offline access
Combined documents and whiteboards in one workspace
Database and table management tools
Real-time team collaboration features
Open-source and fully customizable
Self-hosting available with Docker
Cross-platform apps for all devices
Mind map creation and visualization
Template library for quick starts
Version history and time machine
File import from multiple formats
Privacy-focused design
All-in-one workspace combining notes, docs, wikis, and databases
Block-based editor with drag-and-drop functionality
Real-time collaboration and team sharing
Multiple database views and advanced filtering
Template gallery for quick setup
Notion AI for content generation (Business+)
Cross-platform sync (web, desktop, mobile)
Integration with popular work tools
Unlimited pages and customizable workflows
Use Cases of AFFiNE and Notion
Pricing of AFFiNE and Notion
AFFiNE offers flexible pricing to match different needs, from individual users to large teams.
The Free Plan (Local FOSS + Cloud Basic) gives you unlimited local workspaces with complete customization, plus 10 GB cloud storage, up to 3 team members, and 7-day file history. This plan is free forever and perfect for personal use.
Pro Plan costs $7.99 monthly (or $6.75 monthly when billed yearly) and includes 100 GB cloud storage, up to 10 team members, 30-day file history, and larger file uploads up to 100 MB.
Team Plan is designed for growing teams at $12 monthly per seat (or $10 per seat yearly). It includes everything in Pro plus 100 GB base storage with 20 GB per additional seat, 500 MB file size limit, unlimited team members, and priority support.
For those who prefer complete control, Self-Hosted options are available starting free for the basic version, with Team plans at the same pricing.
Notion offers flexible pricing to suit individual users and growing teams. The Free plan is perfect for personal use, providing unlimited pages and blocks for individuals, plus collaboration with up to 10 guests. However, it limits file uploads to 5MB and includes basic features only.
The Plus plan at $10 per user monthly (annual billing) targets small teams, offering unlimited file uploads, 30-day page history, and collaboration with up to 100 guests.
The Business plan at $20 per user monthly includes everything in Plus plus Notion AI features, advanced page analytics, and priority support - making it ideal for growing companies.
Enterprise plans feature custom pricing and deliver advanced security with SAML SSO, user provisioning, audit logs, and dedicated customer success management. Students and educators receive Plus plan benefits free with school email verification.
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