gournal vs HackMD

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

gournal

HackMD

gournal vs HackMD: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

gournal: Gournal is a simple journal keeping application for GNOME desktop environment. It allows users to easily write journal entries and tag them for organization. Features include text formatting, search, automatic backups, and more.

HackMD: HackMD is a real-time collaborative markdown editor and note-taking web application. It allows teams to write, edit, review and publish markdown documents together in real-time. Features include GitHub/GitLab integration, code blocks, task lists, and drawing.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature	gournal	HackMD
Sugggest Score	—	—
Category	Office & Productivity	Remote Work & Education
Pricing	Open Source	Open Source

Product Overview

gournal

Description: Gournal is a simple journal keeping application for GNOME desktop environment. It allows users to easily write journal entries and tag them for organization. Features include text formatting, search, automatic backups, and more.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

HackMD

Description: HackMD is a real-time collaborative markdown editor and note-taking web application. It allows teams to write, edit, review and publish markdown documents together in real-time. Features include GitHub/GitLab integration, code blocks, task lists, and drawing.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

gournal Features

Simple interface for writing journal entries
Formatting options for text (bold, italic, underline, etc)
Tagging entries for organization
Full-text search
Automatic periodic backups
Export journal to PDF

HackMD Features

Real-time collaborative editing
Markdown support
Code block support
GitHub/GitLab integration
Task lists
Drawing support

Pros & Cons Analysis

gournal

Pros

Easy to use
Good for basic journaling needs
Backups provide protection against data loss
Search makes it easy to find past entries
Free and open source

Cons

Limited features compared to more full-featured journaling apps
No cloud sync or mobile app
Basic formatting options
No analytics or statistics on journaling habits

HackMD

Pros

Free for individuals
Great for collaboration
Integrates with GitHub/GitLab
Supports markdown formatting
Has useful features like code blocks and drawings

Cons

Formatting can get messed up with multiple simultaneous editors
No WYSIWYG editor
Limited free plan storage

Pricing Comparison

gournal

Open Source

HackMD

Open Source

Related Comparisons

GoodNotes

vs gournal vs HackMD

Google Docs

vs gournal vs HackMD

Windows Journal

vs gournal vs HackMD

Rentry.co

vs gournal vs HackMD

Bamboo Paper

vs gournal vs HackMD

Microsoft Journal

vs gournal vs HackMD

Learn More About Each Product

Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

Ready to Make Your Decision?

Explore more software comparisons and find the perfect solution for your needs

gournal Alternatives

HackMD Alternatives

Browse More Software