Here are some of the top Lucidchart alternatives that might better suit your diagramming and flowchart creation needs:

  • Miro is best for scalable team collaboration.
  • Creately is best for visual project management.
  • Draw.io is best for free, open-source diagramming.
  • Gliffy is best for user experience.
  • OmniGraffle is best for macOS.

Nov. 17, 2023: Irene Casucian reviewed our recommendations and enhanced the page layout for easier navigation.

We’ve explored the list of top Lucidchart alternatives below to find the best fit for teams of all sizes:

  • ClickUp
  • Coggle
  • Creately
  • Dia
  • Draw.io
  • Figma
  • Freeplane
  • Gliffy
  • LibreOffice
  • MindMeister
  • Miro
  • Mural
  • OmniGraffle
  • PlantUML
  • SmartDraw
  • Visio
  • Visme
  • Whimsical
  • Xmind
  • yEd Graph Editor

Our research involved reviewing technical documentation and reading user feedback. We prioritized tools that offer collaborative features, intuitive interfaces, and strong diagramming functions. As the world of diagramming tools evolves, we’ll update our recommendations to ensure you have the latest information.

TechnologyAdvice is able to offer our services for free because some vendors may pay us for web traffic or other sales opportunities. Our mission is to help technology buyers make better purchasing decisions, so we provide you with information for all vendors — even those that don’t pay us.

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Top 5 Lucidchart alternatives

Miro: Best for scalable team collaboration

Miro logo.

Miro is an online diagramming tool that allows users to create comprehensive workflows, organizational charts, and flowcharts. Like Lucidchart, it provides a platform for visualizing complex information, making it easier to understand and share. Both tools are designed to enhance collaboration and streamline the process of creating visual representations of data.

While Lucidchart is known for its data visualization and collaboration features, Miro sets itself apart with its extensive template library tailored for various flowchart needs. It also offers integration capabilities with third-party apps like Google Docs and Microsoft Teams, allowing users to share their flowcharts. Additionally, some users have pointed out areas where Miro’s UX/UI could be improved, suggesting that there might be a slight learning curve compared to Lucidchart.

Pros

  • Vast template library catering to different flowchart needs.
  • Provides tools for creating professional diagrams.
  • Syncs with apps like Google Docs and Microsoft Teams.

Cons

  • The UI/UX has room for improvement.
  • Free version restricted to only 3 boards.

Extensive template library

Miro understands that every project has unique requirements, and starting from scratch isn’t always the most efficient approach. That’s why it offers an expansive library of templates catering to many flowchart needs.

Whether you’re mapping out a complex business process, visualizing a user journey, or brainstorming ideas, Miro’s templates serve as a foundation, so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Professionals created these templates so that users, regardless of their level of expertise, have a useful and attractive starting point.

Diagramming tools

Creating a flowchart is more than just connecting boxes with arrows; it’s about clarity, precision, and aesthetics. Miro’s suite of diagramming tools is crafted to empower users to design informative and visually compelling flowcharts.

With a range of shapes, lines, colors, and text options, users can customize every aspect of their diagram. The platform’s intuitive interface makes sure that, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned designer, crafting a professional-looking flowchart is an exceptional experience.

Screenshot of Miro from website.
Third-party app integration

In today’s interconnected digital landscape, integrating with other platforms is invaluable. Miro recognizes this and offers third-party app integration capabilities. Whether drafting a document in Google Docs or collaborating with a team on Microsoft Teams, Miro helps you access your flowcharts with ease. 

This integration capability streamlines workflows, reduces the need for constant switching between apps, and fosters real-time collaboration. With Miro, your flowcharts become an integral part of your broader collaborative ecosystem, and keep everyone on the same page.

  • Free plan: Includes unlimited team members and 3 active boards.
  • Starter plan: Starts at $8/user/mo. billed annually.
  • Business plan: Starts at $16/user/mo. billed annually.
  • Enterprise plan: Requires custom pricing.

Miro stands out as a versatile diagramming tool with an extensive template library and integration capabilities. Its focus on providing a comprehensive platform for creating and sharing flowcharts makes it a compelling choice over Lucidchart, especially for teams looking for a more integrated and template-rich experience.

Creately: Best for visual project management

The Creately logo.

Creately is a versatile tool that combines a simple whiteboard and a powerful database. Designed to foster team collaboration, Creately offers an interactive and functional workspace without downloads or installations. It’s a platform that mirrors Lucidchart in its core objective of facilitating visual collaboration.

While Lucidchart is a popular choice for diagramming, Creately differentiates itself with features like an infinite canvas, real-time text cursors, and mouse pointers. It also boasts advanced sharing permissions, spotlighting and following other collaborators, and integration capabilities with platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Zoom.

Pros

  • Provides infinite canvas for diagramming.
  • Allows precise sharing permissions for better collaboration.
  • Excellent integration with tools like Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams.

Cons

  • Its extensive features can be overwhelming.
  • Importing an SVG file can present challenges.

Visual project management and execution tools

Creately offers visual project management tools that allow users to put anything on a workflow with Kanban boards. The platform supports advanced workflows with multiple boards and timelines.

Tasks can be assigned multiple roles, and there’s a simple My Tasks view for individual tracking. Other features include full-text search, indexes, and the ability to establish dependencies and relationships between tasks.

Advanced diagramming, flowcharting, and whiteboards

Creately supports more than 70 types of diagramming standards, thus providing versatility for various projects. With a library of more than 8,000 professional templates and 200,000 examples, users have many options to kickstart their projects.

The platform also emphasizes a keyboard-first drawing approach with its PlusCreate feature. This means users can prioritize keyboard inputs for faster diagramming. Additionally, Creately offers complete customization for professional diagrams, hand drawing and markup support, and links and connectors for creating navigational flows.

Screenshot of Creately from website.
Unlimited visual collaboration

Creately’s platform is designed to foster collaboration among teams. The spotlight and follow part allows users to track other collaborators’ actions, making sure that everyone is on the same page.

  • Free plan is available.
  • Starter: Starts at $5 per month, billed annually.
  • Business: Starts at $89 per month, billed annually.
  • Enterprise: Requires custom pricing.

Creately stands out with its unlimited visual collaboration features, extensive diagramming standards, and integration capabilities. Its emphasis on both keyboard-first drawing and hand drawing gives users a unique blend of precision and personalization, making it a compelling choice over Lucidchart.

Draw.io: Best for free, open-source diagramming

The Draw.io logo.

Draw.io stands out as open-source diagramming software, meaning users can access its features without cost. Like Lucidchart, it provides a platform for individuals and teams to create a variety of diagrams, such as flowcharts, UML diagrams, organizational charts, and ER models.

The software is browser-hosted, making it accessible across various operating systems, and can be used both online and offline. Its integration capabilities with platforms like Google Drive, OneDrive, Confluence Server/Cloud, and Dropbox make it a versatile tool for collaborative projects.

While Lucidchart offers a range of features and integrations, Draw.io sets itself apart primarily due to its cost-free nature. Despite being a free Lucidchart alternative, it doesn’t compromise on essential features. However, it might have limited design options, making it more suitable for simpler projects. Unlike Lucidchart, which might require a subscription for advanced features, Draw.io offers a no-cost solution without the need for account creation.

Pros

  • Completely free to use.
  • Effortless integration with platforms like Google Drive, GitHub, and more.
  • Users can start without any sign-up process.

Cons

  • Lacks some advanced features.
  • Zooming issue when opening an existing diagram.

Desktop and online versions

Draw.io offers a desktop version available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. This is perfect for those who prefer an offline application or want enhanced security. Additionally, Draw.io offers an online version, which is excellent for those who prefer web-based tools. This online version also doubles as a diagram viewer for files created by other diagramming tools.

Mobile diagramming and flexible file storage

For those on the move, Draw.io can be added as a web link on mobile devices for on-the-go diagramming. The platform also offers flexibility in terms of file storage. Users can store their diagrams on Google Drive, OneDrive, GitHub, GitLab, Dropbox, or even on their local device.

Google Workspace, GitHub, Microsoft, and other integrations

Draw.io can be integrated into Google Workspace, allowing users to store diagram files in Google Drive and work with them in Docs, Sheets, and Slides. Similarly, Draw.io works with Microsoft’s OneDrive, Sharepoint, Office 365, and Teams.

For developers and teams using GitHub, Draw.io offers an app that allows access authorization to individual repositories. Beyond GitHub, Draw.io can be integrated into platforms like Notion, Nextcloud, Atlassian Confluence, and Jira, among others. This guarantees that regardless of the platform your team uses, Draw.io can be a part of it.

  • Free 30-day trial is available.
  • Cloud: $20/mo. for up to 20 users; $532.50/mo. for up to 2,000 users..
  • Data center: $6,000/yr. for up to 500 users; $10,000/yr. for up to 2,000 users.

Draw.io stands out for its open-source nature, wide range of integrations, and flexibility in terms of deployment (online, offline, self-hosted).

Its adaptability to various platforms, from Google Workspace to Microsoft’s suite, makes it a versatile choice for teams of all sizes. Plus, the fact that it offers a robust set of features for free makes it a compelling alternative to Lucidchart.

Also read: Top Airtable Alternatives & Competitors (2024)

Gliffy: Best for intuitive and user-friendly interface

The Gliffy logo.

Gliffy is facilitates team collaboration with its user-friendly editor and interface. Much like Lucidchart, it allows users to create diagrams, flowcharts, wireframes, and more.

As an Atlassian Marketplace app, Gliffy is designed to enhance documentation by providing engaging and relevant diagrams to content. Whether you’re familiar with Lucidchart or new to the world of diagramming, Gliffy offers an intuitive experience for creating visual representations.

While both Gliffy and Lucidchart serve as diagramming tools, the two have some key differences. Gliffy stands out with its customization options, allowing users to add images, modify the color palette, and more. Its drag-and-drop interface simplifies the process of drawing flowcharts and organizational charts online.

Moreover, Gliffy’s integration with platforms such as Slack, Trello, and monday.com streamlines the collaborative process by enabling real-time communication and project tracking. However, users may experience performance issues with Gliffy, as it can become cumbersome and less responsive, mainly when dealing with more extensive, complex charts and diagrams.

Pros

  • Provides an intuitive editor and user interface.
  • Offers options to tailor charts, including adding images.
  • Drag-and-drop feature that simplifies the process of diagram creation.

Cons

  • Can be less responsive with larger charts.
  • Offers a narrower range of templates compared to competitors.
  • Less versatile than Lucidchart.

Customization

Gliffy’s customization capabilities are designed to cater to the unique needs of its users. Not only can you effortlessly integrate images into your diagrams, but you also have the freedom to play around with a diverse color palette. This feature makes sure that your visual representations align with your brand or presentation theme.

Whether aiming for a professional look or a more creative flair, Gliffy provides the tools to tailor every aspect of your diagrams. From line styles to text fonts, the platform empowers users to make their creations their own.

Online access with Confluence and Jira integration

Gliffy’s online availability gives users access to their diagrams anywhere, anytime, without requiring software installations.

What sets Gliffy apart is its tight integration with Atlassian’s Confluence and Jira. For teams already using these platforms, this means they can embed and edit Gliffy diagrams directly within Confluence pages or Jira tickets. This integration streamlines workflows, making it easier to visualize project timelines, system architectures, or even user journeys right where the team’s documentation and project tracking occur.

Screnshot of Gliffy from website.
User-friendly editor for diverse diagramming needs

Gliffy is designed with simplicity in mind, to help novices jump in and start creating. Its intuitive interface allows users to drag and drop elements, customize shapes, and easily add text.

Whether you’re sketching out a quick flowchart, designing a detailed wireframe for a new website, or mapping out an organizational structure, Gliffy’s editor is versatile enough to handle a wide range of diagramming needs. The tool’s user-centric design approach keeps the focus on conveying information effectively rather than grappling with complicated software mechanics.

  • Free trial is available. 
  • Professional plan: Starts at $8/user/mo. for up to 9 users, billed annually; $6/user/mo. for 10 to 50 users billed annually.
  • Enterprise plan: Requires custom pricing.

Gliffy offers a blend of intuitive design and customization options, making it a top choice for those seeking an alternative to Lucidchart. Its collaboration features, especially the integration with popular platforms, give it an edge for teams looking to streamline their diagramming process.

If you’re searching for a tool that combines ease of use with powerful features, Gliffy is worth considering.

OmniGraffle: Best for macOS

OmniGraffle is designed to help users create professional-looking diagrams and charts with ease. Like Lucidchart, it offers a comprehensive suite of tools for diagramming, making it a go-to choice for many professionals. Its user-friendly interface and features make it a popular choice for those looking to visualize complex information.

While OmniGraffle shares many similarities with Lucidchart in terms of diagramming capabilities, it differentiates itself with unique Omnigraffle features such as the Resource Browser, Document Picker, and advanced export options. Additionally, OmniGraffle’s integration with Apple’s ecosystem, like Apple Pencil support and Touch Bar support, gives it an edge for macOS and iOS users.

Pros

  • Accurately integrates with products in the Apple ecosystem, including Apple Pencil.
  • Supports advanced export formats like SVG and Visio.
  • Provides a vast array of stencils and templates.

Cons

  • Might be challenging for beginners due to its feature set.
  • Designed primarily for Apple users, limiting its broader appeal.
  • Some features are exclusive to the Pro version.

Apple Pencil & Touch Bar support

OmniGraffle integrates with Apple’s innovative hardware features to offer a more intuitive and precise user experience. With Apple Pencil support, users can sketch, design, and annotate diagrams accurately, making the process feel as natural as drawing on paper.

The Touch Bar integration on compatible MacBook Pro models provides quick access to frequently used tools and functions, streamlining the design process and allowing users to work more efficiently without constantly navigating through menus.

Advanced export

OmniGraffle’s advanced export capabilities help users save and share their work in various graphics formats, and cater to different needs. OmniGraffle has you covered whether you’re looking to export a high-resolution image for a presentation, a vector format for further editing, or a PDF for documentation. This flexibility guarantees that your diagrams and designs are accessible and compatible with other platforms and software.

Interactive actions

Beyond just creating static diagrams, OmniGraffle offers the ability to add interactive elements to your designs. Users can set up specific actions, such as linking to another page, opening a website, or triggering a pop-up note, all within the diagram.

This feature is handy for creating interactive wireframes, mockups, or any design where user interaction is key. By enhancing interactivity, OmniGraffle makes your diagrams not only visually appealing but also functional and dynamic.

  • Free 14-day trial available. 
  • Subscription (Mac, iPhone, and iPad): Starts at $12.49/mo. or $124.99 billed annually.
  • v7 Standard License (Mac only): Available for a one-off payment of $149.99.
  • v7 Pro License (Mac only): Available for a one-off payment of $249.99.

OmniGraffle stands out with its deep integration into the Apple ecosystem, offering features tailored for Mac and iOS users. Its extensive suite of tools, combined with unique features like the Resource Browser and advanced export options, make it a compelling choice for professionals seeking a comprehensive diagramming solution.

If you’re deeply embedded in the Apple world and looking for a tool that perfectly fits into that environment, OmniGraffle might be the perfect fit.

What is Lucidchart?

Millions worldwide rely on the premier diagramming and visual collaboration platform, Lucidchart. Renowned for its intuitive drag-and-drop functionality, Lucidchart boasts a vast template library catering to diverse diagramming needs, from flowcharts to organizational charts. Its real-time collaboration feature allows teams to work together, and with compatibility across various devices and platforms, users can access and edit their diagrams anytime, anywhere.

Learn more about Lucidchart in our video demo:

What are the limitations of Lucidchart?

  • Limited objects with free version: The free version of Lucidchart offers a restricted number of objects and simples, which can be a limitation for users who want to create more detailed diagrams without upgrading.
  • Minimal flowchart management features: Lucidchart only offers a few features for managing flowcharts, which can be a drawback for users who need advanced flowchart functionalities.
  • Pricing concerns: The cost of Lucidchart relative to the range of features it offers might make it less appealing to users looking to get more value for their money.

Choosing the right Lucidchart alternative

In today’s digital world, the right tools can optimize our workflow. When exploring Lucidchart alternatives, it’s essential to consider your team’s unique requirements. 

Several factors are essential when evaluating alternatives to Lucidchart:

  • A user-friendly interface.
  • Collaboration features.
  • A variety of integrations with other platforms.
  • Cost-effectiveness.
  • Broad device and operating system compatibility.

Here are some considerations based on the top Lucidchart alternatives:

  • For scalable teamwork, especially across dispersed teams, Miro offers real-time collaboration and powerful integration features.
  • Creately stands out in visual project management with its web-based interactive workspace and cloud integrations.
  • If open-source, free diagramming is your priority, Draw.io is your go-to choice.
  • If you require an intuitive interface, Gliffy excels at providing a simple drag-and-drop diagramming experience with a diverse template range.
  • For those committed to the Apple ecosystem, OmniGraffle is the top pick, ensuring detailed diagramming fine-tuned for macOS.

Selecting a Lucidchart hinges on carefully assessing your team’s specific needs and workflow preferences. By weighing these options against the critical factors of user experience, collaboration, integration, cost, and compatibility, you can choose a diagramming and project management tool that not only matches but also enhances your team’s productivity and efficiency.

TechnologyAdvice is able to offer our services for free because some vendors may pay us for web traffic or other sales opportunities. Our mission is to help technology buyers make better purchasing decisions, so we provide you with information for all vendors — even those that don’t pay us.

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