SilverBullet

Open source markdown knowledge management system that works locally, on teams, and as published docs.

Overview

SilverBullet is an open source knowledge management system built around plain markdown files that you control. It adapts to multiple use cases: personal journaling with linked notes, team wikis with real-time collaboration, documentation stored alongside code in git repositories, or shared family spaces. Your knowledge lives as ordinary markdown files in a folder on your machine, accessible offline and portable to any editor or tool.

The system emphasizes exploration and retrieval through wiki-style links, backlink mentions, interactive object graphs, and database-like queries written in Space Lua—a scripting language built into the tool. You can customize the interface with CSS and add commands or widgets without a build step. SilverBullet Server can be self-hosted in a container or deployed through hosting providers, while SilverBullet Desktop offers a native app for macOS, Windows, and Linux with local folder support and system-wide shortcuts.

Key features

Plain markdown files in folders you control
Wiki links and backlink mentions
Live queries and object graph visualization
Space Lua scripting for customization
Real-time sync across devices
Self-hosted or desktop-only options
Offline-first with local storage
Task management and daily journals

Pros

Open source and MIT licensed
Data portability—files are standard markdown
Works offline with full functionality
No vendor lock-in or external dependencies
Flexible for multiple use cases
Powerful querying without database setup
Customizable with CSS and Lua scripting

Cons

Learning curve for Space Lua scripting
Smaller ecosystem compared to commercial alternatives
Some features marked experimental or beta
Requires self-hosting for team features or use own server

Use this if

You want a portable, offline-first knowledge system with no vendor lock-in; you prefer plain markdown files; you need team collaboration with self-hosting control; or you want to store docs in git alongside code.

Skip this if

You need a fully managed cloud solution with zero setup; you require enterprise SaaS support; or you prefer graphical note-taking over markdown.

Best for

Personal knowledge management and journalingTeam wikis and shared documentationDocumentation stored in git repositoriesOffline-first note-takingCustom knowledge workflows with scripting

Alternatives

ObsidianLogseqNotionConfluenceMkDocsQuartz

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