Synap vs Open Source
Comparing Synap to AppFlowy, Affine, and Supabase
Overview
There are amazing open-source tools appearing. How does Synap fit in?
| Tool | Primary Focus | Architecture | AI Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| AppFlowy | Notion Alternative | Local-First (Flutter) | Integrated Assistant |
| Affine | Docs + Whiteboard | Local-First (CRDTs) | Assistant Context |
| Supabase | Backend-as-a-Service | PostgreSQL | Vector Embeddings |
| Synap | Personal Data OS | Event Sourcing + Agents | Multi-Agent System |
1. Synap vs AppFlowy / Affine
AppFlowy and Affine are fantastic "Local-First" replacements for Notion/Miro. They focus heavily on UI/UX parity and Privacy.
Synap's differentiator is the Kernel.
- They build an App: The goal is a great editor.
- We build an OS: The goal is a programmable kernel.
Synap puts Events and Agents first.
- In Affine, you write a doc.
- In Synap, you emit events. An Agent might write the doc for you. Or verify it. Or link it.
If you just want a private Notion, use AppFlowy. If you want a Programmable Intelligence Layer that you can script, automate, and extend with autonomous agents, use Synap.
2. Synap vs Supabase
Supabase is an open-source Firebase alternative. It gives you a database, Auth, and APIs.
Synap uses Supabase principles but adds the "User Layer".
- Supabase: Gives you raw ingredients (Postgres, Auth). You build the backend.
- Synap: Gives you a complete, opinionated backend.
- The Database is already designed (Entities, Events, Relations).
- The Event Bus is pre-configured.
- The Auth is enterprise-grade (Ory).
- The AI layer is pre-integrated.
Synap is like "Supabase + A Headless CMS + An Agent Framework" pre-assembled into a deployable Pod.
Summary
- Choose AppFlowy/Affine if you want a polished, private note-taking app today.
- Choose Supabase if you want to build a SaaS product from scratch.
- Choose Synap if you want a Personal Data Platform that creates a permanent, intelligent memory for your life, capable of running autonomous agents.