PinSlip is a free, open-source desktop sticky notes application for Windows, macOS, and Linux that keeps notes pinned above other windows so ideas, tasks, and references stay visible while you work.
What is PinSlip?
PinSlip is a desktop sticky notes app that captures text, clipboard content, and images into notes pinned on top of your other windows. Notes are written in Markdown, rendered live as you type, and saved as plain local files in a folder you choose. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, is distributed free of charge, and its source code is published on GitHub under the homerious/pinslip repository.
Key Features
- Always-on-top sticky notes — Notes stay pinned above other windows, can collapse into a slim bar, and support adjustable note and font sizes plus six color themes.
- Live Markdown editing — Headings, bold, strikethrough, quotes, and task lists render as you type with no separate preview pane.
- Global quick capture — A global shortcut, clipboard import, and image support turn a thought into a desktop note in seconds.
- Magnetic snap and note groups — Notes snap together when close, align automatically, group into movable collections, and can be renamed or moved as a whole.
- Tags, folders, and search — Organize notes with folders and tags, then browse via list, folder, or tag views and search by title, content, or tag.
- Local-first plain-file storage — Notes are stored as plain files in a user-chosen folder, work offline, and are easy to back up.
- Git sync without Git installed — Connect any Git remote and PinSlip synchronizes notes automatically; Cloud Sync is listed as coming soon.
- Open MCP server for AI — Compatible AI assistants can search, read, create, and update notes locally through the bundled MCP server.
Who is it for?
- Developers: Keep APIs, commands, and TODOs pinned to the desktop while coding.
- Students: Collect research, lecture notes, and assignments in one place.
- Designers: Organize inspirations, feedback, and tasks visually on the desktop.
- Daily planners: Keep today's priorities visible until they are done.
What can you do with PinSlip?
- Quick capture: Press a global shortcut or paste from the clipboard to turn an idea into a note instantly.
- Project grouping: Snap related notes into a group, rename it, and move the whole collection around the desktop.
- Cross-device sync: Connect a Git remote to keep notes synchronized between computers without installing Git.
- AI-assisted note management: Let a compatible AI assistant search, read, create, and update notes through the local MCP server.
Pricing
PinSlip is completely free and open source. No paid tiers are listed on the page.
FAQ
Is PinSlip free?
Yes. PinSlip is completely free and open source, with no paid tiers mentioned on its website.
Does PinSlip work on Windows, macOS, and Linux?
Yes. PinSlip ships builds for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and downloads for all three platforms are offered from the same download page.
Where are my sticky notes stored?
All notes are stored locally on your own computer as plain files. You choose the storage folder, and the notes remain under your control.
Can I sync notes between computers?
Yes. PinSlip supports Git synchronization today without requiring Git to be installed, and Cloud Sync is planned for a future release.
Can AI access my notes?
Yes. PinSlip includes an open MCP server that lets compatible AI assistants search, read, create, and update notes locally on your own machine.
