Basic Memory
Persistent, structured, and inspectable AI memory in Markdown. Open source, works with Claude, ChatGPT, and more. Own your knowledge graph.
Editor's Verdict
Key Takeaways
- Persistent AI Memory
- Markdown Knowledge Graph
- Local & Cloud Sync
- Team Collaboration
In-Depth Review: What is Basic Memory?
Basic Memory is an open-source, persistent AI memory system that stores your knowledge in a structured, inspectable knowledge graph of plain Markdown files. Unlike built-in AI memory that is small and vendor-owned, Basic Memory gives you full control: run it locally or on the cloud, integrate with any AI tool via MCP, collaborate with teams, and keep your data forever. It supports semantic search, projects, and schemas, making it ideal for personal knowledge management, research, and AI development.
Core Features
Persistent AI Memory
Large, structured, and inspectable knowledge base that replaces small, vendor-owned chat history.
Markdown Knowledge Graph
All notes are plain Markdown files, editable in any editor and readable by any AI tool.
Local & Cloud Sync
Run locally on your machine or use Basic Memory Cloud for team collaboration, with push/pull sync.
Team Collaboration
Share one knowledge base with your team, including roles, invites, and real-time editing.
AI Tool Integrations
Connect with Claude, ChatGPT, Codex, Gemini, Cursor, VS Code, Obsidian, and more via MCP.
Semantic & Metadata Search
Search your knowledge graph by meaning or metadata for fast retrieval.
Canvas Visualizations
Visualize your knowledge graph as interactive canvases for better understanding.
Open Source & Self-Host
Full open-source code, can run locally or self-host; contribute or explore the code.
Pricing
Local
- Run on your machine
- Files never leave your computer
- All open-source features
- CLI and MCP tools
Cloud
- Web app and note editor
- AI collaboration
- Cloud sync and snapshots
- Themes and API keys
- Shared notes and file history
Teams
- Team workspace with roles
- Seats and billing
- Team projects
- Copy content between workspaces
- Customer provisioning and SSO
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Persistent & Owned MemoryYour AI memory is large, structured, and stored in plain Markdown that you own forever.
- Local-First & PrivateRun entirely on your machine with no data leaving your computer if you choose the local setup.
- Vast IntegrationsConnects with Claude, ChatGPT, Codex, Gemini, Cursor, VS Code, Obsidian, and many more via MCP.
- Team CollaborationReal-time sharing, roles, and invites make it easy for teams to maintain a shared knowledge base.
- Open Source & ExtensibleFull code available on GitHub; you can self-host, contribute, or build plugins like Hermes and OpenClaw.
Cons
- Learning CurveNew users may need time to understand the Markdown knowledge graph and MCP integration setup.
- Dependency on AI ModelsEffectiveness relies on the AI tool you connect; memory quality varies by model.
- Limited Mobile SupportPrimarily desktop-focused; no native mobile app mentioned for on-the-go access.
- Cloud Pricing UnclearPricing for cloud and team plans is not explicitly listed, requiring contact for details.
Use Cases & Recommended Professions
Software Engineer→ View Toolkit
Needs persistent, searchable memory for code snippets, project documentation, and AI-assisted coding across multiple tools.
Researcher→ View Toolkit
Benefits from a structured knowledge graph to organize research notes, papers, and cross-references with AI query capabilities.
Writer→ View Toolkit
Uses the knowledge base to store ideas, drafts, and research, while AI helps with editing and content generation.
Project Manager→ View Toolkit
Requires a shared team memory for meeting notes, decisions, and action items, with AI summarization and search.
Data Scientist→ View Toolkit
Leverages the knowledge graph to document datasets, experiments, and insights, integrating with AI assistants for analysis.
Student→ View Toolkit
Organizes lecture notes, readings, and study materials in a connected way, using AI for review and question-answering.
Frequently Asked Questions
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ℹ️ Curation Disclosure: The overview and features of Basic Memory were synthesized using AI and fact-checked by our curation team to ensure accuracy.
