Docspell
Self-HostedOpen-source document management system for organizing scanned documents
Overview
Docspell is an open-source document management system designed to organize scanned documents and digital files efficiently. It automates metadata extraction, uses OCR to make text searchable, and allows tagging, categorization, and filtering for easy retrieval. Supports integration with cloud storage (like Nextcloud, S3) and email import. Deployable via Docker Compose or Kubernetes, it’s self-hosted, ensuring data privacy. Ideal for personal or small team use, it helps reduce paper clutter while keeping documents accessible and secure without relying on third-party services.
Key Features
- OCR-powered text search for scanned documents
- Automated metadata extraction & tagging
- Integration with cloud storage (Nextcloud, S3)
- Deployable via Docker Compose/Kubernetes
Frequently Asked Questions
? Is Docspell hard to install?
Docspell is easy to install using Docker Compose—official docs provide a simple docker-compose.yml file to launch it quickly. Kubernetes users can use the available Helm chart. Basic containerization knowledge helps, but the Docker setup is straightforward for most users.
? Is Docspell a good alternative to Google Drive for document management?
Docspell is an excellent alternative if you prioritize self-hosting and data privacy over Google’s cloud convenience. It excels at organizing scanned docs with OCR and metadata, whereas Google Drive focuses more on real-time collaboration. For users wanting control over their data, Docspell is ideal for archiving and retrieval.
? Is Docspell completely free?
Yes, Docspell is 100% free and open-source under the MIT License. There are no hidden fees or paid tiers—you can use all features without cost, modify the source code, or self-host it indefinitely.
Top Alternatives
Tool Info
Pros
- ⊕ Privacy-focused self-hosted solution
- ⊕ No subscription fees
- ⊕ Powerful search & organization tools
Cons
- ⊖ Requires technical setup (Docker/Kubernetes knowledge helpful)
- ⊖ OCR accuracy varies with document quality
- ⊖ Limited advanced collaboration features for large teams