Open Source App Directory is a curated open-source app catalog that helps you discover free, self-hosted, and privacy-friendly alternatives to popular SaaS tools. Each listed app is vetted for quality and performance by a seasoned technologist, enabling you to replace proprietary software with transparent, community-driven solutions.
How it works
- Browse or search categories (AI, Backend as a Service, DevOps, Productivity, CMS, analytics, and more).
- Read at-a-glance descriptions, features, and licensing goals.
- Compare alternatives and choose open-source options that fit your needs.
- Access installation guidance, deployment tips, and contributor information to get started quickly.
Featured Open Source Apps (examples)
- Ghost — Alternative to Beehiiv CMS. Publishing platform focused on blogs and newsletters.
- PostHog — Alternative to Mixpanel Analytics. Open-source product analytics with full user behavior insights.
- Convex — Alternative to Firebase BaaS. Open-source backend platform with TypeScript-based APIs for data management and business logic.
- Zed — Alternative to Cursor AI. Code editor designed for collaboration with humans and AI, optimized for performance.
- AnythingLLM — All-in-one AI application supporting various LLMs, documents, and agents with a privacy-first approach.
How to use the Open Source App Directory
- Explore categories or search for a specific tool.
- Click into an app to view detailed information, installation instructions, and licensing.
- Assess compatibility with your stack and proceed to install or host the app.
- Contribute back by reporting issues, submitting improvements, or providing setup guides.
Categories
- AI
- Backend as a Service (BaaS)
- DevOps
- Productivity
- Blogging / CMS
- Analytics
- Databases and Data Tools
- Code Editors and IDEs
- and many more
Why choose open-source alternatives?
- Transparency and security through auditable code
- Flexible deployment and no vendor lock-in
- Community-driven support and rapid iteration
- Cost savings and privacy-centric options
Core Features
- Curated, vetted open-source apps across multiple categories
- Free access with no mandatory subscriptions
- Clear licensing and contributor information
- Installation guidance and deployment tips
- Benchmarks and quality signals to compare alternatives
- Support for self-hosting and privacy-focused deployments
- Regular updates and new app recommendations