Obsidian has gained a significant following among productivity enthusiasts and knowledge workers due to its unique features and flexibility. However, despite its strengths, there are several reasons why some users find Obsidian lacking as a note-taking tool. This article explores the key drawbacks of Obsidian and why it might not be the best choice for everyone.

1. Steep Learning Curve

One of the most common complaints about Obsidian is its steep learning curve. Unlike more straightforward note-taking apps, Obsidian requires users to understand and use Markdown, a lightweight markup language³. For those unfamiliar with Markdown or hierarchical note-taking, this can be a significant barrier to entry⁴. The initial setup and customization can also be time-consuming, which may deter new users.

2. Lack of Real-Time Collaboration

In an era where collaboration is key, Obsidian falls short. The app does not support real-time collaboration, making it difficult for teams to work together on shared notes³⁵. This limitation can be a deal-breaker for users who need to collaborate frequently, as they might prefer tools like Google Docs or Notion, which offer robust collaboration features.

3. No Built-In Cloud Storage

Obsidian stores all notes locally on the user's device, which can be both a strength and a weakness¹. While this ensures privacy and control over data, it also means that users need to manage their own backups and syncing across devices. The lack of built-in cloud storage can be inconvenient, especially for users who are accustomed to seamless cloud integration provided by other note-taking apps¹.

4. Limited Mobile Support

Although Obsidian has made strides in mobile support, it still lags behind other note-taking apps in terms of functionality and ease of use on mobile devices⁴. The mobile app can feel clunky and less intuitive, which can be frustrating for users who need to take notes on the go.

5. Absence of Advanced Features

Obsidian lacks some advanced features that are available in other note-taking apps. For instance, it does not have a web clipper, which is a handy tool for saving content directly from the web³. Additionally, it does not support advanced databases or OCR (Optical Character Recognition), limiting its utility for users who need these functionalities¹.

6. Customization Overload

While Obsidian's high degree of customization is a selling point for many, it can also be overwhelming. The extensive options for plugins, themes, and settings can lead to decision fatigue and make the app feel cluttered¹. Users who prefer a more streamlined and out-of-the-box experience might find Obsidian's customization options excessive and distracting.

Conclusion

Obsidian is a powerful tool with a dedicated user base, but it is not without its flaws. The steep learning curve, lack of real-time collaboration, absence of built-in cloud storage, limited mobile support, and missing advanced features are significant drawbacks that can hinder its effectiveness as a note-taking app. For users who prioritize ease of use, collaboration, and advanced functionalities, other note-taking tools might be a better fit.

What are your thoughts on these points? Have you experienced any of these issues with Obsidian?