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draw.io

draw.io

Free, security-first diagramming tool for flowcharts, wireframes, and technical diagrams.

Our Verdict

Best for

Technical teams that want a free, privacy-respecting diagramming tool that embeds into Confluence, Jira, or GitHub.

Skip if

You want a highly visual, template-rich whiteboarding experience rather than a utilitarian diagram editor.

What is draw.io?

draw.io (also known as diagrams.net) is a free diagramming application used for flowcharts, network diagrams, wireframes, and technical documentation, with a strong emphasis on privacy and self-managed data storage. It is available as a browser app at app.diagrams.net and as a desktop application, and it deliberately maintains long-term backward compatibility with older diagram files.

SpecificationsAI-estimated

deploymentCloud/SaaS
open source✅ Yes
key integrationsConfluence, Jira, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, GitHub, VS Code

Key Features of draw.io

Provides free diagramming with no mandatory sign-up in the browser at app.diagrams.net.
Supports real-time collaborative editing of diagrams among multiple users.
Lets users choose where diagram files are stored, including local, self-hosted, or cloud storage.
Maintains backward compatibility so diagrams created years ago still open correctly today.
Exports diagrams to SVG, PNG, PDF, and other common formats for embedding in documents.
Integrates with Confluence, Jira, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, GitHub, and VS Code.
Offers a downloadable desktop application in addition to the browser version.

Use Cases for draw.io

1

Software architecture diagrams

Engineers document system architecture and data flows for technical documentation.

2

Flowcharts and process mapping

Teams map out business processes and decision flows using standard flowchart shapes.

3

Embedded documentation diagrams

Teams embed diagrams directly into Confluence, Jira, or GitHub-based documentation.

4

Wireframing and UML

Product and engineering teams sketch UI wireframes or UML diagrams before implementation.

Pros & Cons of draw.io

Pros

  • Free with no mandatory account creation or paywall
  • Strong data-privacy stance with self-hosted or local storage options
  • Old diagram files remain compatible with the current app
  • Deep integrations with common workplace tools like Confluence and Jira

Cons

  • Interface is more utilitarian than some modern whiteboard-style competitors
  • Advanced enterprise security features are less prominent than dedicated paid diagramming suites
  • Less built-in template variety than some commercial diagramming tools

Frequently Asked Questions

Is draw.io free?

Yes, draw.io (diagrams.net) is free to use in the browser and as a desktop app, with no sign-up required.

Is draw.io the same as diagrams.net?

Yes, draw.io and diagrams.net refer to the same diagramming product.

Can draw.io integrate with Confluence and Jira?

Yes, draw.io integrates with Confluence, Jira, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, GitHub, and VS Code.

Does draw.io have a desktop app?

Yes, in addition to the browser version, draw.io offers a downloadable desktop application.

Pricing Overview

View full pricing →
Free

Detailed plans are not listed. Visit the official website for pricing information.

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About the Product

Unclaimed Listing
Target AudienceTechnical teams, developers, and business process documenters

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Tags

diagrammingflowchartsopen sourcetechnical documentationwhiteboarding

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