Can I import my notes from one app to another?

Yes, but with varying degrees of pain. Notion and Obsidian both support Markdown export/import, making transitions easier. Roam's export options are more limited. Plan for some manual cleanup regardless of which direction you're moving.

Which app works best offline?

Obsidian wins this hands-down since it stores everything locally. Notion requires an internet connection for most features, while Roam is primarily cloud-based. If offline access is crucial, Obsidian is your only real option.

Is the learning curve worth it for these advanced apps?

It depends on your needs. If you're taking simple notes occasionally, stick with Apple Notes or Google Keep. But if note-taking is central to your work or studies, investing time in learning these tools pays dividends long-term.

Can these apps replace traditional project management tools?

Notion can definitely replace many project management tools, especially for smaller teams. Obsidian and Roam are better suited for knowledge management than project management, though both can handle basic task tracking.

Which app is best for students?

Obsidian is excellent for research-heavy fields where connecting concepts matters. Notion works well for students who need to manage classes, assignments, and notes in one place. Roam is powerful for graduate-level research but might be overkill for most undergrad needs.

How do these apps handle privacy and data security?

Obsidian stores everything locally, giving you complete control. Notion and Roam are cloud-based, with standard encryption and privacy policies. If data sovereignty is critical, Obsidian is the clear choice.

Can I use multiple apps together?

Absolutely, and many power users do. A common approach is using Notion for project management and team collaboration while using Obsidian or Roam for personal knowledge management. The key is avoiding duplication and confusion.

Can these apps help with ADHD or brain fog?

Absolutely—template customization, structure, and workflow options all help. These apps' organizational features can be game-changers for managing cognitive challenges. For more specialized tools and strategies, see our comprehensive Brain Fog Survival Kit: 5 Best Apps for MS & Chronic Illness. Also, try the Focus Session Timer Guide for an extra productivity boost.

Productivity Blog Articles | Primeproductiv4

Iulia Ilas 27/09/2025 Iulia Ilas 27/09/2025

Notion vs Obsidian vs Roam Research: The Note-Taking App That Actually Boosts Productivity (2025)

The note-taking app market is brutal—full of overhyped tools that crumble under real-world pressure. We tested Notion, Obsidian, and Roam Research in the productivity trenches to find out which one actually lives up to its promises. The results might surprise you, especially if you're currently team Notion.