Etherpad vs HedgeDoc

Comparing two open source alternatives to Google Docs . Use the comparison below to decide which one fits your needs.

Etherpad

Apache-2.0

Open-source real-time collaborative text editor you can self-host.

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HedgeDoc

AGPL-3.0

Real-time collaborative markdown note editor you can self-host — write together with rich formatting and seamless sharing.

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Side-by-side comparison

	Etherpad	HedgeDoc
License	Apache-2.0	AGPL-3.0
Self-hostable	Yes	Yes
GitHub Stars	18,414	7,270
Forks	3,028	567
Open Issues	16	278
Last Commit	Jun 25, 2026	Jun 25, 2026
First Released	Mar 26, 2011	Mar 27, 2019
Categories	Collaboration & Communication Tools Productivity & Utilities	Note Taking & Knowledge Management Tools
Tags	#collaboration #self hosted #privacy	#markdown #collaboration #note taking

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