0docs vs Typemill

0docs is a free, open-source documentation platform that teams can self-host to create, style, version, and publish documentation. Its MIT-licensed editor arranges content into pages, sections, and blocks such as callouts, steps, code tabs, cards, accordions, and API endpoints. Users can change colors, fonts, sidebar presentation, and individual block styles, then publish documentation snapshots using a custom domain. The “Ask docs” feature answers questions from published documentation and requires an OpenAI API key; an OpenAI-compatible base URL override is documented. AI clients can use a built-in MCP endpoint to read and edit documentation with project tokens or anonymous read-only access. The platform requires PostgreSQL, storing uploaded media there by default or in optional S3-compatible storage. Local installation calls for Node.js 20+ and pnpm, plus Docker Compose or PostgreSQL 14+. The default upload maximum is 20 MB per upload. SMTP is optional, but without it password-reset and invitation links appear in server logs. The self-hosting guide recommends HTTPS, database backups, and production configuration.

Typemill is a lightweight, self-hosted flat-file CMS for creating product documentation, software manuals, user guides, websites, and eBooks from Markdown. It provides both a WYSIWYG-style editor with drag-and-drop blocks and a raw Markdown editor. Content can be arranged in hierarchical navigation, divided into separate projects, and published in multiple languages. Its eBook plugin can generate PDFs and EPUBs, while the same content can also be published as a website. Typemill stores content in Markdown files and configuration in YAML, without requiring a database. Roles include Administrator, Editor, Author, and Member, and access can be restricted to a whole site or individual pages. Plugins and themes extend it; the Kixote connector works with OpenAI-compatible services and Anthropic’s Claude API, including ChatGPT, Claude, Ollama, and LM Studio. The maker says installation requires Apache or Nginx and PHP 8.1 or higher. Community is free; Maker costs $22 a year, billed 22 € + VAT/Year, for one instance and production domain.