Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We've got answers. If yours isn't here, email support@spudsuite.com.
General
What is SpudSuite?
SpudSuite is a privacy-first productivity suite with notes, todos, kanban boards, schedules, and projects. Your data syncs to your own cloud storage — we never see it. Zero-knowledge architecture.
Why "Spud"?
Because potatoes are humble, reliable, and go with everything. Just like a good productivity app should be. Also, all our themes are named after potato varieties. We're committed to the bit.
Is SpudSuite free?
Yes! The core app is free forever — unlimited notes, todos, boards, schedules, 2 projects, 8 themes, cloud sync, and all platforms. Pro ($4/mo or $40/yr) adds premium themes, custom backgrounds, templates, recurring todos, unlimited projects, and import/export.
Do I need to create an account?
No SpudSuite account is required. You can start using SpudSuite immediately. After 48 hours, you'll need to connect a cloud provider (Google Drive or Dropbox) to continue creating new content. This protects your data from loss — but you still don't need a SpudSuite account.
Privacy and Data
Where is my data stored?
On your device first (local-first architecture), and optionally in your own cloud storage (Google Drive or Dropbox). SpudSuite has no servers that store your data.
Can SpudSuite read my data?
No. When you connect a cloud provider, you authorize SpudSuite to access only its app folder. We have no access to your other files, and your notes never touch our servers. This is what "zero-knowledge" means.
Is my data encrypted?
Your cloud provider encrypts data at rest (Google and Dropbox both do this). In transit, everything uses HTTPS. Since only you have access to your cloud storage, your data is private.
Can I export my data?
Pro users on the web can export notes as Markdown (.md) files. Your cloud sync data is stored as JSON files that you own and can access directly in your cloud storage.
What happens if SpudSuite shuts down?
Your data is on your device and in your cloud storage. You'll always have access to it. No lock-in.
Sync
What sync providers are supported?
Google Drive (OAuth2) and Dropbox (OAuth2 PKCE) are fully supported on all platforms. Connect with one click — no app keys or manual setup needed.
How often does sync happen?
In real-time when you're online. Changes push within seconds. If you're offline, changes queue and sync when you reconnect.
What if I edit on two devices at once?
SpudSuite handles conflicts automatically. By default, the most recent edit wins. If edits are very close together, you'll see a conflict banner to choose which version to keep.
Can I use multiple cloud providers?
Not simultaneously. You can only connect one cloud provider at a time. To switch, disconnect the current one and connect a new one.
Why does SpudSuite require sync after 48 hours?
Without cloud sync, your data only exists on your current device. If you clear your browser data, switch devices, or lose your phone, your notes and todos are gone. We require sync after 48 hours to protect your data. You still choose where it goes — Google Drive or Dropbox. Your existing data remains accessible even before connecting.
Can I dismiss the sync prompts?
The first two prompts (at 12 and 24 hours) can be dismissed. The 48-hour prompt is mandatory — you'll need to connect a cloud provider to continue creating new content. Your existing notes, todos, and boards remain fully accessible.
Platforms
What platforms are supported?
- Web: Any modern browser — also installable as a PWA at spudsuite.com/app
- macOS: Electron app (.dmg), Apple Silicon and Intel
- Windows: Electron app (.exe installer), Windows 10+
- Linux: Electron app (AppImage and .deb)
- Android: Capacitor app (.apk)
- iOS: Capacitor app (coming soon to App Store; use web PWA for now)
Can I install the web app?
Yes! SpudSuite is a Progressive Web App (PWA). Click the "Install" button in your browser to install it. It works offline and gets its own window.
Features
What is the Schedule view?
Schedule is a Gantt-style timeline view of your planner cards. Set start and end dates on cards in the Planner, and they appear as bars on the timeline. It's a different perspective on the same data.
What are Projects?
Projects group related folders, todo lists, and boards together. Instead of switching between views to find everything for "Website Redesign", you open the project and everything is there. Free users get 2 projects, Pro users get unlimited.
What's the difference between Notes and Todos?
Notes are for writing — rich text documents with formatting, images, and structure. Todos are for tasks — simple items with checkboxes, due dates, and sections. Use notes for writing and reference, and todos for tracking what needs to get done.
Pro
What's included in Pro?
15 premium themes, custom theme creator, custom note backgrounds with darkness/scale controls, 7 note templates, recurring todos, unlimited projects, import/export (.md), and cross-linking (notes to todos/planner). See Pro Features for full details.
Can I try Pro before buying?
We don't have a free trial, but we offer a 7-day money-back guarantee. Try it risk-free.
How do I cancel Pro?
Go to Settings then Subscription then Cancel. Your subscription ends at the next billing date. You keep Pro until then.
Is Pro required for sync?
No. Cloud sync is free forever. Pro is for power users who want extra polish and productivity features.
Still have questions?
Email us at support@spudsuite.com. We usually respond within 24 hours (Pro members get priority).