Quick Overview
- 1#1: Lucidchart - Cloud-based collaborative diagramming tool specializing in flowcharts, BPMN process maps, and workflow diagrams.
- 2#2: Microsoft Visio - Professional desktop and web application for creating detailed process diagrams, flowcharts, and BPMN models with advanced features.
- 3#3: diagrams.net - Free open-source diagramming software for building process flowcharts, BPMN diagrams, and technical workflows offline or online.
- 4#4: Creately - Visual collaboration platform for teams to design process maps, flowcharts, and business diagrams with real-time editing.
- 5#5: SmartDraw - Intelligent diagramming software that automates the creation of process diagrams, flowcharts, and org charts from templates or data.
- 6#6: Miro - Online whiteboard with advanced diagramming tools for collaborative process mapping, flowcharts, and visual workflows.
- 7#7: Bizagi Modeler - Free BPMN-compliant tool for modeling, documenting, and simulating business processes and workflows.
- 8#8: Camunda Modeler - Desktop application for creating, editing, and validating BPMN 2.0 process diagrams with execution support.
- 9#9: EdrawMax - Comprehensive diagramming software with thousands of templates for process flowcharts, BPMN, and workflow diagrams.
- 10#10: Gliffy - Web-based diagramming tool for process diagrams and flowcharts with seamless Atlassian integrations.
We ranked these tools based on functionality (including BPMN compliance, automation, and integrations), usability (interface, learning curve, and accessibility), and value (cost-effectiveness, scalability, and performance across use cases).
Comparison Table
For creating clear, effective process diagrams, selecting the right software is key, and this comparison table breaks down top tools like Lucidchart, Microsoft Visio, diagrams.net, Creately, and SmartDraw. It outlines features, usability, and cost to help users identify the best fit for their workflow needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lucidchart Cloud-based collaborative diagramming tool specializing in flowcharts, BPMN process maps, and workflow diagrams. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Microsoft Visio Professional desktop and web application for creating detailed process diagrams, flowcharts, and BPMN models with advanced features. | enterprise | 8.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 3 | diagrams.net Free open-source diagramming software for building process flowcharts, BPMN diagrams, and technical workflows offline or online. | other | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.8/10 | 10/10 |
| 4 | Creately Visual collaboration platform for teams to design process maps, flowcharts, and business diagrams with real-time editing. | creative_suite | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | SmartDraw Intelligent diagramming software that automates the creation of process diagrams, flowcharts, and org charts from templates or data. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 6 | Miro Online whiteboard with advanced diagramming tools for collaborative process mapping, flowcharts, and visual workflows. | creative_suite | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Bizagi Modeler Free BPMN-compliant tool for modeling, documenting, and simulating business processes and workflows. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 8 | Camunda Modeler Desktop application for creating, editing, and validating BPMN 2.0 process diagrams with execution support. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 9 | EdrawMax Comprehensive diagramming software with thousands of templates for process flowcharts, BPMN, and workflow diagrams. | creative_suite | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Gliffy Web-based diagramming tool for process diagrams and flowcharts with seamless Atlassian integrations. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Cloud-based collaborative diagramming tool specializing in flowcharts, BPMN process maps, and workflow diagrams.
Professional desktop and web application for creating detailed process diagrams, flowcharts, and BPMN models with advanced features.
Free open-source diagramming software for building process flowcharts, BPMN diagrams, and technical workflows offline or online.
Visual collaboration platform for teams to design process maps, flowcharts, and business diagrams with real-time editing.
Intelligent diagramming software that automates the creation of process diagrams, flowcharts, and org charts from templates or data.
Online whiteboard with advanced diagramming tools for collaborative process mapping, flowcharts, and visual workflows.
Free BPMN-compliant tool for modeling, documenting, and simulating business processes and workflows.
Desktop application for creating, editing, and validating BPMN 2.0 process diagrams with execution support.
Comprehensive diagramming software with thousands of templates for process flowcharts, BPMN, and workflow diagrams.
Web-based diagramming tool for process diagrams and flowcharts with seamless Atlassian integrations.
Lucidchart
enterpriseCloud-based collaborative diagramming tool specializing in flowcharts, BPMN process maps, and workflow diagrams.
Data-linked diagrams that automatically update shapes, colors, and metrics from live data sources for always-current process visualizations
Lucidchart is a leading cloud-based diagramming platform specializing in process diagrams, flowcharts, BPMN models, and workflow visualizations with an extensive library of shapes, templates, and automation tools. It enables real-time collaboration, data integration from sources like Excel or Google Sheets, and dynamic linking to keep diagrams updated automatically. Ideal for business process modeling, it supports standards like UML, ERD, and Visio imports for seamless transitions.
Pros
- Vast template library and shape palette optimized for process diagrams including BPMN and swimlanes
- Real-time multiplayer editing with commenting, version history, and conditional formatting
- Deep integrations with tools like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Jira, and live data linking
Cons
- Premium features like unlimited shapes and advanced automation require paid plans
- Can experience slowdowns with extremely large or complex diagrams
- Limited offline functionality compared to desktop alternatives
Best For
Enterprise teams and process analysts needing collaborative, data-driven diagramming for complex workflows and compliance documentation.
Pricing
Free plan for basic use; Individual at $9/user/month; Team at $9/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing with advanced security.
Microsoft Visio
enterpriseProfessional desktop and web application for creating detailed process diagrams, flowcharts, and BPMN models with advanced features.
Data Graphics and linking to live data sources for automatically generated and refreshed process diagrams
Microsoft Visio is a professional diagramming application specialized in creating detailed process diagrams, flowcharts, BPMN models, and swimlane diagrams. It provides an extensive library of industry-standard templates, shapes, and stencils for process mapping, along with data connectivity to visualize live data from sources like Excel or databases. Visio supports collaboration through Visio for the web and integrates deeply with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem for enterprise workflows.
Pros
- Vast library of templates and shapes compliant with BPMN 2.0 and other standards
- Data linking for dynamic, auto-updating process diagrams
- Seamless integration with Microsoft Excel, Teams, and SharePoint
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features and customization
- High cost for full desktop version, especially for individuals
- Web version lacks some desktop capabilities
Best For
Enterprise professionals and Microsoft-centric teams requiring robust, standards-compliant process diagramming with data integration.
Pricing
Starts at $5/user/month (Visio Plan 1 web-only); $15/user/month (Visio Plan 2 desktop); included in select Microsoft 365 plans.
diagrams.net
otherFree open-source diagramming software for building process flowcharts, BPMN diagrams, and technical workflows offline or online.
Full client-side processing ensuring complete data privacy with no server uploads unless user-initiated
diagrams.net (formerly draw.io) is a free, browser-based diagramming tool specializing in creating process diagrams like flowcharts, BPMN 2.0 models, swimlane diagrams, and value stream maps. It provides extensive shape libraries, drag-and-drop functionality, and templates tailored for business processes, with support for importing Visio files and exporting to multiple formats including PDF, SVG, and PNG. The tool also offers a desktop app for offline use and seamless integrations with Google Drive, OneDrive, and Confluence.
Pros
- Completely free with no usage limits or accounts required
- Robust BPMN 2.0 and flowchart support with vast shape libraries
- Offline desktop app and strong import/export capabilities
Cons
- Collaboration features require third-party integrations and lack native real-time editing
- Interface can feel cluttered for complex diagrams
- Advanced styling and automation options are less polished than premium tools
Best For
Budget-conscious teams and solo professionals needing versatile, high-quality process diagramming without subscription costs.
Pricing
Entirely free for all features; no paid tiers or hidden costs.
Creately
creative_suiteVisual collaboration platform for teams to design process maps, flowcharts, and business diagrams with real-time editing.
Real-time multiplayer editing with live cursors, akin to Google Docs for diagrams
Creately is a cloud-based visual collaboration platform specializing in diagrams, including process flows, flowcharts, BPMN, and swimlane diagrams, with a vast library of customizable templates and shapes. It enables real-time multiplayer editing, data integration for dynamic updates, and exports to various formats like PDF and Visio. Ideal for business process modeling, it supports automation through AI-generated diagrams from text prompts.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with smart connectors
- Robust real-time collaboration and commenting
- Extensive template library tailored for process diagrams
Cons
- Limited functionality in free plan
- Pricing escalates quickly for teams
- Performance can lag with very large or complex diagrams
Best For
Teams collaborating on business process mapping, flowcharts, and BPMN diagrams who need quick templates and real-time editing.
Pricing
Free plan with limits; Personal $5/user/month (annual), Team $10/user/month, Business $25/user/month (annual billing).
SmartDraw
specializedIntelligent diagramming software that automates the creation of process diagrams, flowcharts, and org charts from templates or data.
Intelligent auto-formatting that automatically aligns, spaces, and connects elements as you build process diagrams
SmartDraw is a comprehensive diagramming tool specializing in process diagrams, flowcharts, BPMN, and value stream maps with thousands of pre-built templates and symbols. It features intelligent automation for layouts, auto-formatting, and data-driven diagram generation from Excel or text inputs. The software supports cross-platform use via web, desktop, and mobile apps, with strong Visio compatibility for seamless import/export.
Pros
- Vast library of process-specific templates and automation tools for quick diagramming
- Excellent Visio integration and data import for complex process mapping
- Cross-platform availability with real-time collaboration
Cons
- Subscription-only model lacks perpetual license option
- Learning curve for advanced automation features
- Web version has fewer capabilities than desktop
Best For
Business analysts and process engineers who need robust, template-driven tools for professional process documentation and analysis.
Pricing
Starts at $9.95/user/month (annual billing); $14.95 monthly; volume discounts and enterprise plans available.
Miro
creative_suiteOnline whiteboard with advanced diagramming tools for collaborative process mapping, flowcharts, and visual workflows.
Infinite collaborative canvas with multiplayer editing and voting tools for dynamic process workshops
Miro is a versatile online collaborative whiteboard platform designed for visual teamwork, enabling users to create process diagrams, flowcharts, swimlane maps, and BPMN models using an infinite canvas and drag-and-drop tools. It offers a rich library of shapes, connectors, sticky notes, and templates tailored for process mapping, with real-time collaboration features for distributed teams. While not a dedicated process modeling tool, Miro shines in brainstorming and iterative diagram refinement during workshops.
Pros
- Exceptional real-time collaboration for team-based process diagramming
- Vast library of process-specific templates and shapes
- Infinite canvas prevents layout constraints in complex diagrams
Cons
- Performance can lag with very large or intricate boards
- Advanced diagramming features require paid plans
- Less specialized for simulation or export to standards like Visio compared to dedicated tools
Best For
Distributed teams and workshops focused on collaborative process mapping and visual brainstorming.
Pricing
Free plan with basic features; Starter at $8/user/month, Business at $16/user/month (billed annually), Enterprise custom.
Bizagi Modeler
specializedFree BPMN-compliant tool for modeling, documenting, and simulating business processes and workflows.
Integrated process simulation engine for testing models without additional software
Bizagi Modeler is a free desktop tool specialized in BPMN 2.0 process modeling, enabling users to create, document, and simulate business processes with drag-and-drop simplicity. It supports full BPMN notation, validation rules, and exports to formats like PDF, Word, PNG, and BPMN XML for sharing and integration. Ideal for analysts focusing on process design without needing execution or cloud collaboration.
Pros
- Completely free with no usage limits or watermarks
- Full BPMN 2.0 support including simulation and validation
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with rich documentation tools
Cons
- Windows-only desktop application, no Mac/Linux or web version
- Lacks real-time collaboration features
- Limited integrations compared to cloud-based competitors
Best For
Solo business analysts or small teams needing a free, professional BPMN modeling tool for individual process design and simulation.
Pricing
Free for unlimited use; optional paid upgrades to Bizagi Automation Platform for execution.
Camunda Modeler
specializedDesktop application for creating, editing, and validating BPMN 2.0 process diagrams with execution support.
Executable BPMN modeling with built-in validation and direct deployment to the Camunda orchestration engine
Camunda Modeler is a free, open-source desktop application for modeling BPMN 2.0 diagrams, DMN decision tables, and BPMN forms with full standards compliance. It offers syntax validation, simulation capabilities, and export options to various formats, enabling the creation of executable workflows. Designed specifically for integration with the Camunda Platform, it streamlines the journey from modeling to deployment in process automation projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive BPMN 2.0, DMN, and form modeling with real-time validation and simulation
- Free and open-source with a robust plugin ecosystem and active community support
- Seamless export and integration with Camunda engine for direct process execution
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to BPMN standards
- Primarily BPMN-focused, with limited support for non-process diagrams
- Desktop-only interface, lacking built-in web-based collaboration
Best For
Enterprise teams and BPMN experts modeling executable business processes for automation with Camunda.
Pricing
Completely free (open-source).
EdrawMax
creative_suiteComprehensive diagramming software with thousands of templates for process flowcharts, BPMN, and workflow diagrams.
Extensive collection of over 26,000 professional symbols and 15,000 templates optimized for process diagrams like BPMN and flowcharts.
EdrawMax is a versatile all-in-one diagramming tool from EdrawSoft that specializes in creating process diagrams such as flowcharts, BPMN models, swimlane diagrams, and workflow maps. It provides an extensive library of over 26,000 symbols and 15,000 templates to streamline the visualization of business processes, engineering workflows, and more. The software supports real-time collaboration, AI-powered diagram generation, and exports to formats like PDF, Visio, and Office files, making it suitable for professional process documentation.
Pros
- Vast library of templates and symbols tailored for process diagrams
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with AI assistance
- Cross-platform availability including desktop, web, and mobile
Cons
- Free version limited with watermarks and export restrictions
- Steeper learning curve for advanced BPMN and customization
- Performance can lag with very large or complex diagrams
Best For
Business analysts, process engineers, and teams needing comprehensive tools for mapping and documenting workflows.
Pricing
Free limited version; paid plans: $9.95/month, $99/year, or $245 perpetual license.
Gliffy
enterpriseWeb-based diagramming tool for process diagrams and flowcharts with seamless Atlassian integrations.
Native integration with Confluence and Jira for in-app diagram creation and editing
Gliffy is a web-based diagramming tool designed for creating flowcharts, process diagrams, UML, wireframes, and organizational charts with an intuitive drag-and-drop interface. It stands out for its deep integration with Atlassian products like Confluence and Jira, allowing users to embed and edit diagrams directly within those platforms. Ideal for process mapping, it supports swimlanes, basic BPMN shapes, and real-time collaboration, though it lacks some advanced simulation features found in specialized tools.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Confluence and Jira
- Intuitive drag-and-drop editor with extensive shape libraries
- Real-time collaboration and easy embedding in docs
Cons
- Limited support for advanced BPMN 2.0 and process simulation
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Performance can lag with very complex diagrams
Best For
Atlassian-using teams needing straightforward process diagrams embedded in Confluence or Jira.
Pricing
Free individual plan with limits; paid plans start at $10/user/month via Atlassian Marketplace, with enterprise options.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools highlight a range of strengths, with Lucidchart emerging as the top choice, prized for its cloud-based collaboration and versatility in flowcharts and BPMN. Microsoft Visio stands as a close second, excelling in professional, detailed modeling, while diagrams.net rounds out the top three with its free, open-source flexibility for offline and online use. Each offers distinct advantages, ensuring the right tool for nearly every need.
Ready to elevate your process diagrams? Dive into Lucidchart to experience its intuitive design and collaborative power firsthand, and discover why it leads the pack.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison