AFFiNE vs HackMD

AFFiNE combines documents, whiteboards, databases, and AI in a local-first workspace. Its AI tools can draft and summarize content, adjust tone, generate mind maps, and create presentations. AFFiNE AI runs through AFFiNE Cloud and requires sign-in; each Cloud user receives 10 trial experiences, and the page says users can bring their own API key starting with version 0.27.

A built-in MCP server lets compatible clients such as Claude and Cursor search a workspace and read documents. Its credentials are limited to one workspace, can be revoked, and default to read-only access. The desktop app stores documents and whiteboards on the device for offline reading and editing without an account. Mobile apps focus on capturing and reviewing notes, while the full Edgeless whiteboard and local file control are on desktop. The free cloud tier includes up to 3 workspace members, 10 GB of storage, and 7 days of version history. The editor, desktop app, and most of the codebase are MIT-licensed; the backend uses the AFFiNE Enterprise Edition license. AFFiNE serves individual creators, small teams, and enterprise teams seeking self-hosting or custom deployment.

HackMD has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.