What are the best open source alternatives to Docs?

The top open source alternatives to Docs include dDocs. These tools offer similar functionality while being free and open source.

Why choose an open source alternative to Docs?

Open source alternatives provide transparency, community support, no vendor lock-in, and often cost savings. You can customize the software to your needs and have full control over your data.

Are these Docs alternatives really free?

Yes, all listed alternatives are open source and free to use. You may need to pay for hosting if you self-host, but the software itself is free.

Best Open Source Docs Alternatives in 2026

Write, organize, and collaborate in real-time with complete privacy and security. This app is an open-source, online/offline compatible, and AI-free alternative to Google Docs.

Write privately. Collaborate securely. Control your data.

A privacy-first, decentralized editor built for teams, individual writers, and enterprises who refuse to choose between security and usability. dDocs requires no account, just open ddocs.new on your browser to get started with a familiar interface and blazing fast editor.

Key features:

Works offline and online: your writing is always accessible, with or without a connection, and syncs seamlessly across all your devices
End-to-end encrypted: only you and your collaborators can access your documents
Real-time and async collaboration: work with your team simultaneously, or leave comments and suggestions on your own time
Markdown and LaTeX support: for math, formulas, and technical notation
Dark mode and custom themes: customize the look and feel of your editor to match how you like to write
No download required: open your browser and start writing. Nothing to install
Sovereignty: access your documents anytime, even if the app goes down. Your files are never locked behind a platform or proprietary database that can disappear
No AI forced on you: zero unwanted automation
Tabs: create multiple tabs within the same document, to create standalone sections for your legal document or chapters for your fanfics.
API access: search for or create new documents on dDocs directly from your CLI or AI agents Whether you're co-authoring legal briefs, drafting academic papers, writing fanfiction, or managing sensitive team documents — this editor gives you a secure, focused space that respects your privacy without getting in the way of your writing.

Whether you’re co-authoring legal briefs, drafting academic papers, writing fanfiction, or managing sensitive team documents, ddocs.new gives you a secure, focused space that respects your privacy without getting in the way of your writing.