Notion

Basic Information

Notion is a productivity and note-taking application developed by Notion Labs, Inc. It functions as an all-in-one workspace, integrating features for note-taking, project management, wikis, and databases.

• Model/Version: Notion (continuously updated SaaS platform)
• Release Date: Initial release in August 2016 (Notion 1.0), followed by Notion 2.0 in March 2018.
• Minimum Requirements:
  • Desktop (Windows): Windows 10 or later, Intel Core i3 or equivalent CPU, 4 GB RAM (8 GB suggested), 200 MB storage.
  • Desktop (macOS): macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or later, Apple Silicon (M1/M2) or Intel-based Mac, 4 GB RAM (8 GB suggested), 200 MB storage.
  • Mobile (iOS): iOS 17.0 or above.
  • Mobile (Android): Android 8 or above.
  • Web: Supported on the last two major extended stable releases of Chrome, and the last two major releases of Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge.
• Supported Operating Systems: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Web browsers.
• Latest Stable Version: Notion is a continuously updated SaaS platform, with version 3.0 released on September 18, 2025.
• End of Support Date: As a SaaS product, Notion receives continuous updates and support. Specific end-of-support dates for older versions are not typically provided, as users are expected to use the latest version.
• End of Life Date: Not applicable for a continuously updated SaaS platform.
• License Type: Proprietary software, Freemium model.
• Deployment Model: Cloud-based (SaaS).

Technical Requirements

Notion operates primarily as a web application with desktop and mobile clients. The performance heavily relies on the underlying operating system and browser capabilities.

• RAM: 4 GB minimum for desktop applications, with 8 GB suggested for heavy users.
• Processor: Intel Core i3 or equivalent for Windows, Apple Silicon (M1/M2) or Intel-based for macOS.
• Storage: Approximately 200 MB of free disk space for desktop application installation. Cloud storage for user data is unlimited for pages, blocks, and templates, with file upload limits of 5 MB per file for free plans and 5 GB per file for paid plans (with a soft limit of 2 GB).
• Display: No specific display requirements beyond standard operating system capabilities. Touchscreens are not officially supported for the desktop application.
• Ports: Standard network connectivity (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) is required for full functionality.
• Operating System:
  • Windows 10 version 21H2 or later, or Windows Server 2016.
  • macOS 11 (Big Sur) or above.
  • iOS 17.0 or above.
  • Android 8 or above.

Analysis of Technical Requirements

Notion's technical requirements are generally modest, reflecting its cloud-native architecture. The desktop applications are largely wrappers for the web experience, meaning the primary computational load often resides on Notion's servers and the user's browser. The suggested RAM of 8 GB indicates that while it can run on less, a smoother experience, especially with multiple pages and complex databases, benefits from more memory. Storage requirements are minimal for the application itself, as user data resides in the cloud. The file upload limits, particularly the 5 MB for free plans, necessitate external hosting for larger media files, which can then be embedded.

Support & Compatibility

Notion offers broad compatibility across major platforms and browsers, with continuous updates.

• Latest Version: Notion is a continuously evolving SaaS product, with version 3.0 released in September 2025.
• OS Support: Windows (10+), macOS (11+), Android (8+), iOS (17+).
• End of Support Date: Notion is a live service with continuous updates. There are no fixed "end of support" dates as new versions are regularly released, and older versions are phased out by encouraging users to update.
• Localization: Available in English, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Spanish (Latin America), Danish (Beta), Dutch (Beta), Finnish (Beta), Norwegian (Beta), Swedish (Beta), Indonesian, Thai, and Vietnamese.
• Available Drivers: Not applicable, as Notion is a software application and does not require specific hardware drivers.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

Notion demonstrates strong support and compatibility across a wide range of modern operating systems and web browsers. The continuous update model ensures users always have access to the latest features and security patches. The extensive localization options make it accessible to a global user base. However, the reliance on continuous updates means users on very old operating systems or browsers might eventually face compatibility issues if they cannot update their systems. The desktop and mobile apps provide a more robust experience, including some offline capabilities, compared to the purely browser-based version.

Security Status

Notion implements a comprehensive security framework, but users also bear responsibility for certain aspects of data security.

• Security Features:
  • Data encryption at rest (AES-256) and in transit (TLS 1.2 or greater).
  • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA/MFA) for enhanced account protection.
  • SAML Single Sign-On (SSO) for Business and Enterprise customers.
  • SCIM Provisioning and Revoking for user management.
  • Audit Logs for tracking security-related activity (Enterprise plan).
  • Granular access controls and permissions.
  • Regular internal security audits, code audits, and penetration testing.
  • Bug bounty program and vulnerability management program.
  • Automated daily backups of customer and system data, encrypted.
  • Physical security managed by AWS.
• Known Vulnerabilities:
  • CVE-2024-23745 (Web Clipper Dirty NIB attack) allowed manipulation of .nib files to execute arbitrary commands.
  • CVE-2024-23743 (macOS versions) enabled code execution under specific conditions.
  • Potential for data exposure due to misconfigurations or human error in access controls.
  • Lack of end-to-end encryption.
  • Database permission restrictions can be bypassed, allowing users with "Can edit content" access to view all records despite filters.
• Blacklist Status: No known blacklist status.
• Certifications: SOC 2 Type 2, ISO 27001, ISO 27701, ISO 27017, ISO 27018. HIPAA compliant with a signed Business Associate Agreement.
• Encryption Support: AES-256 for data at rest, TLS 1.2 or greater for data in transit.
• Authentication Methods: Email/password, Google Sign-in, SAML SSO (Business/Enterprise), 2-step verification (MFA).
• General Recommendations: Enable 2FA, manage permissions carefully, avoid storing highly sensitive data (like passwords) directly in Notion, regularly review third-party integrations, and keep applications updated.

Analysis on Overall Security Rating

Notion maintains a robust security posture, evidenced by its comprehensive security features, adherence to industry standards like SOC 2 and ISO certifications, and encryption practices. However, it is crucial to note that Notion does not offer end-to-end encryption, meaning Notion Labs maintains the keys to encrypt and decrypt user data. This implies that Notion employees could potentially access user data for support purposes. Furthermore, some vulnerabilities related to file handling and database permission bypasses have been identified, highlighting the importance of keeping the application updated and carefully managing sharing settings. The "shared responsibility model" applies, where Notion secures its infrastructure, but users are responsible for proper configuration, access management, and data handling within the platform. Overall, Notion is secure for most general productivity and collaboration tasks, but users should exercise caution with extremely sensitive information and adhere to best practices for account and data management.

Performance & Benchmarks

Notion's performance is generally good for its intended use, but can vary based on several factors.

• Benchmark Scores: Specific, standardized benchmark scores for Notion are not publicly available, as performance is highly dependent on user-specific content, internet connection, and device.
• Real-world Performance Metrics:
  • Web and Desktop: Generally praised for functionality and design, offering quicker loading times and a distraction-free workspace compared to the browser-based version.
  • Mobile: Users frequently report performance issues on mobile, particularly Android, including slow performance, long loading times, frequent lags, typing glitches, and occasional crashes.
  • Large Data Sets: Can become slow and unresponsive when handling very large databases or extensive workspaces.
  • Offline Access: Limited offline functionality; most features require an internet connection, impacting usability in areas with poor connectivity.
• Power Consumption: No specific power consumption benchmarks are readily available. As a web-centric application, power usage on desktop and mobile clients is largely influenced by browser efficiency and the device's hardware.
• Carbon Footprint: No specific carbon footprint data is publicly disclosed for Notion's operations or per-user basis. As a cloud-based service hosted on AWS, its environmental impact is tied to AWS's infrastructure.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Notion is often compared to tools like Coda, Evernote, and traditional project management software. Its strength lies in its flexibility and all-in-one approach, but this can also lead to a steeper learning curve and potential performance issues with very complex setups compared to more specialized tools.

Analysis of Overall Performance Status

Notion generally performs well for typical use cases, especially on its web and desktop platforms, which are often lauded for their design and functionality. However, performance can degrade with very large datasets or complex workspaces, leading to slower loading times and unresponsiveness. The mobile application, particularly on Android, faces significant criticism for lag, slow loading, and synchronization issues, suggesting a need for optimization. Its limited offline capabilities mean a consistent internet connection is crucial for a seamless experience. While not formally benchmarked, its performance is generally acceptable for most users, with the caveat that heavy usage or mobile-first workflows might encounter limitations.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews highlight Notion's versatility and customization, alongside concerns about its complexity and mobile performance.

• Strengths:
  • Unmatched Flexibility and Customization: Users highly praise Notion's ability to be a "blank canvas" for creating diverse workspaces, including databases, Kanban boards, wikis, and calendars. The drag-and-drop interface and extensive customization options allow users to tailor the platform to their specific needs.
  • All-in-One Workspace: Valued for consolidating note-taking, project management, task tracking, and knowledge management into a single platform.
  • Powerful Collaboration: Real-time editing, shared workspaces, and granular permissions make it ideal for team collaboration.
  • Continuous Improvement: The Notion team regularly releases new features, updates, and AI enhancements.
  • Free Plan: The generous free plan for individuals is a significant draw.
• Weaknesses:
  • Steep Learning Curve: The extensive flexibility and features can be overwhelming for new users, requiring a significant time investment to master.
  • Performance Issues (especially Mobile): Frequent complaints about slow performance, long loading times, lags, and crashes on mobile apps, particularly Android.
  • Limited Offline Access: Many features require an internet connection, hindering productivity in offline environments.
  • Potential for Distraction: The endless customization can lead to "tinkering" rather than actual productivity.
  • File Size Limits: The 5 MB limit for free users and 5 GB for paid users can be restrictive for large file uploads.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Personal productivity and organization (notes, tasks, habit tracking, journaling).
  • Project management (Kanban boards, task databases, timelines, goal tracking).
  • Knowledge base and wikis (team resource centers, documentation, client wikis).
  • Content creation and marketing campaign management.
  • Team collaboration and communication.
  • Engineering documentation and workflows.
  • Specialized uses like event planning, research, financial tracking, and travel planning.

Summary

Notion Labs Notion is a highly versatile, cloud-based productivity and workspace application that consolidates note-taking, project management, wikis, and databases into a single, customizable platform. Its core strength lies in its unparalleled flexibility, allowing users to tailor their workspace to almost any need, from personal organization to complex team collaboration. This adaptability, combined with robust collaboration features and a generous free tier, has made it a popular choice across individuals, startups, and enterprises.

Technically, Notion operates efficiently on modern desktop and web environments with relatively low system requirements. However, its mobile application, particularly on Android, frequently receives criticism for performance issues such as lag and slow loading times. The platform's reliance on an internet connection also limits its utility in offline scenarios.

From a security standpoint, Notion employs strong measures, including AES-256 encryption for data at rest and TLS 1.2 for data in transit, along with 2FA, SSO, and compliance with SOC 2 and ISO standards. However, the absence of end-to-end encryption and identified vulnerabilities related to file handling and database permission management necessitate careful user configuration and adherence to security best practices. Users are responsible for managing access controls and avoiding the storage of highly sensitive data directly within the platform.

Overall, Notion is an excellent tool for those seeking a highly customizable and integrated workspace, particularly for collaborative efforts and knowledge management. Its strengths in flexibility and feature set outweigh its weaknesses for many users. However, potential users should be prepared for a learning curve, be mindful of mobile performance limitations, and diligently manage security settings, especially when handling sensitive information. For optimal performance and security, users should ensure their operating systems and browsers are up-to-date and consider external solutions for very large file storage.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.