Open-source, local-first, encrypted local storage, optional sync
Best browser option
Wumilo
Android
No
Local-only, no tracking, no cloud
Simple reminders
EasyDone
Android
No
100% offline, local storage, no ads/tracking
Feature-rich offline use
Do!
iPhone
No
Tasks stored locally; no upload/tracking
Best iPhone option
TodoChecklist
Web
No
Local browser storage, no server/backend
Extremely simple lists
My top picks
1. Tasks.org — best overall
It is free and open-source, and its free version explicitly says “No account or internet required.” You get unlimited tasks, lists, tags, reminders, recurring tasks, and notifications. You can optionally connect cloud services later, but you don't have to.
2. Haven — best if you want something in a browser
Haven is particularly interesting if you don't want to install an app. It is open-source, local-first, works without an account, and keeps your data locally encrypted. Optional synchronization is available if you eventually want it.
No account, no cloud, no tracking, and no ads. Tasks, reminders, notes, and settings stay on your device. It also supports recurring reminders and widgets.
4. Do! — best iPhone choice
The iPhone app stores tasks locally, doesn't require an account, and says it doesn't upload, read, sell, or share task data. It includes lists, due dates, reminders, and a local backup/export option.
One important distinction
If “no account” also means “I don't want my data ever touching a company's server,” I'd prioritize Tasks.org (offline), Haven's local-only mode, Wumilo, or Do! over services that merely allow anonymous use.
If you tell me whether you're on iPhone, Android, Windows/Mac, or want a web app, I can narrow this down to the 2–3 best choices, including which ones are open-source and which support syncing without sacrificing privacy.
The best privacy-focused to-do list apps that do not require an account to use areTasks.org , Sleek, and local-first open-source tools like Joplin or plain text Todo.txt apps. These options store your data entirely on your local device by default, require zero sign-ups, and do not track your activity.
Privacy-Focused, Account-Free To-Do Apps
Tasks.org Tasks.org is an open-source Android task manager that works completely offline with no account or internet connection required. It supports local encrypted backups, tags, locations, and syncs optionally via your own DAV server or EteSync if you ever choose to connect one later.[](https://tasks.org/pricing/)
Sleek Sleek is a todo app for Windows, macOS, and Linux that runs completely on your local machine. It uses the open Todo.txt format (a simple text file) to store tasks, meaning your data stays local, transparent, and completely private without any account setup.
JoplinJoplin is primarily a note-taking app, but it excels at robust checklists, to-do lists, and reminders. It is open-source and stores all notes locally on your hardware; an account is only needed if you choose to turn on optional end-to-end encrypted cloud synchronization.
Privacy Friendly To-Do ListSECUSO is an Android app developed by research groups focusing on usable security. It requests minimal permissions, contains no trackers, and operates entirely offline on your device without requiring an account or cloud login.[](https://secuso.aifb.kit.edu/english/To-Do-List.php)
Would you prefer an app for Android, iOS, or Desktop (Windows/Mac/Linux) , and do you need the ability to sync between devices later using your own storage?
My top recommendation is Super Productivity. It’s free, open source, requires no account, and stores your tasks locally by default. You can start using it immediately in your browser or install it on your computer or phone.
I’d prioritize tools that let you keep your task data on your own device, rather than simply apps that promise to protect your data in the cloud.
My top picks
1. Super Productivity
(Best overall)
A full-featured task manager with projects, priorities, daily planning, Kanban boards, focus timers, and time tracking. Your data stays on your device unless you choose to enable syncing.
A practical choice for everyday to-do lists, recurring tasks, reminders, tags, and subtasks. The free Android app works without an account or internet connection. It also offers optional synchronization choices, including self-hosted options.
An account-free, open-source task manager designed to keep your data in your browser. Worth trying if you want a lightweight tool without the overhead of a large productivity suite.
Start here:
Which one should you choose?
If you want…
Choose
A powerful all-around organizer
Super Productivity
A straightforward Android app with reminders
Tasks.org
A browser-based tool with local encryption
Haven
One privacy tip: No-account doesn't automatically mean private. Check where your tasks are stored, whether syncing is enabled, and whether you can export or back up your data. For example, Super Productivity warns that clearing your browser data can erase locally stored tasks.
If you tell me what device you use most, I can narrow this down to the best fit.
Obsidian (with Tasks Plugin): While technically a note-taking application, Obsidian operates entirely on a local folder of Markdown text files on your hard drive. By installing the community "Tasks" plugin, it transforms into an incredibly robust, private task manager that requires zero account creation.
Standard Notes: A privacy-first, end-to-end encrypted notes app that allows you to create checklists and to-dos locally without signing up for an account. However, it is fundamentally structured around notes rather than dedicated task management workflows.[](https://zerofriction.app/blog/best-private-local-first-task-apps-2026)
If you would like, let me know:
What operating systems you plan to use it on (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS)
Whether you need time tracking or just a simple to-do list
I can give you more specific setup tips for whichever tool you prefer.