In answer to the question about Evernote alternatives:
I don't trust any app that stores my data in unencrypted format on an internet-facing server ( or any server for that matter). So that includes Simplenote and OneNote, which are commonly touted as Evernote alternatives.
The best alternatives I have found are Turtl and Zim. These are both free and open source, but very different.
Turtl stores your data in an end-to-end encrypted way (i.e. only you can read it; not even the developer has access). It's a note-taking app, presently in beta that works on Windows, Mac, Linux and Android. It presently supports Markdown text and some attachment functionality, as well as rather good search and tagging, and some basic sharing options. It is not Evernote, but it's a good option for syncing notes in a private way.
Zim is more like a Wiki you can use on your desktop computer to organize notes and attach files. The notes and the files are stored in folders, which you can sync between devices using the service of your choice. If you choose and end-to-end encrypted service, such as Tresorit, Spideroak or Sync.com then you essentially have a personalized Wiki that syncs with you between devices. Zim comes with a large number of customizations and plugins and runs on Windows, LInux and Mac (but not mobile, I think.)
Other apps to consider are:
- CherryTree (similar to Zim): works on Linux and Windows.
- InkDrop (Markdown note-taking aimed at developers): commercial, but cheap, attractively designed and uses encryption to store the notes.
- Laverna (open source, cross-platform, end-to-end encrypted).
Great response, I'm checking out Turtl right now looks quite nice and has a chrome extension which is certainly awesome! Surprised the community isn't much bigger, it does seem actively maintained though.