Top 10 Mindmap Tools in 2024

Mind maps are powerful diagrams for organizing your thoughts and ideas. And with so many mindmap tools available these days, it's easier than ever to create and share them.

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Mindmaps are diagrams that use images and keywords to help you connect ideas. They can help you brainstorm, plan, and visualize faster than with pen and paper. And in the digital age, there are a ton of mindmap tools that can make it even more fun and efficient to create and use mindmaps.

In this article, you'll discover some of the best mind-mapping tools today. But before that, you should understand how using one can boost your productivity and allow you to work smarter.

edrawmax ai generated mindmap
In this article
  1. Why Use a Mindmapping Tool
  2. Top 10 Mindmap Makers
  3. Best Practices for Using Mindmapping Software
  4. Conclusion

Why Use a Mind Mapping Tool?

Mindmap makers are practical tools in both professional and personal endeavors. Here are some of the reasons why you might want to use mindmaps:

Increased Creativity and Brainstorming Capabilities

Mindmaps encourage free-flowing thinking. They let you jot down ideas as they come, fostering creativity. You'll discover new insights and connections you might have missed otherwise if you use a mindmap creator.

Enhanced Organization and Visual Representation of Ideas

Complex topics? No problem. Mindmap generators offer to create a clear visual structure. You can see how everything fits together, making it easy to grasp intricate details while keeping the big picture in sight.

Improved Collaboration and Sharing of MindMaps

Mindmaps aren't only for solo work. They're fantastic for team projects. A mindmap tool with collaborative features provides a simple way to get everyone on the same page and combine your collective brainpower.

working remotely graphic illustration

Top 10 Mind Map Makers

Choosing a mind-mapping tool can be challenging. But there are a few key factors to consider, such as ease of use, customization capabilities, collaboration features, and price. Here are some of the top mind-mapping tools on the market:

Wondershare EdrawMax

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EdrawMax is a collaborative mindmap tool that lets you create detailed mindmaps on an infinite canvas. With its user-friendly interface, even beginners can create mindmaps that look professional. Start with a pre-designed template, or use the AI mindmap generator to get your ideas flowing.

Then, move shapes around freely without worrying about losing your formatting. Share your mindmaps with others in real-time and get feedback on your ideas. EdrawMax is a mind-mapping tool that lets you think big.

Pros
  • Extensive customization features
  • Vast library of shapes and symbols
  • Supports a wide range of file formats
  • Cross-platform compatibility
  • AI features for diagramming needs
Cons
  • No integration with other productivity apps
  • AI tokens are available only on EdrawMax Desktop for Windows and the Online version

User Rating

4.6 out of 5

EdrawMind

edrawmax ai generated mindmap

Are you a visual learner looking for a mindmap creator to help you with your ideas, projects, and tasks? EdrawMind is an AI-powered mind-mapping tool available on multiple devices and operating systems. You can use EdrawMind to create mindmaps from scratch, using templates, or even convert outlines into mindmaps. And with its one-click conversion features, you can instantly turn your mindmaps into presentations.

Pros
  • Rich customization features
  • User-friendly interface
  • Real-time collaboration and sharing features
  • Supports various file formats
Cons
  • The collaboration feature only works in Windows and web browsers
  • The free trial has only one option for sharing link expiration settings

Pricing

EdrawMind offers a free trial with basic features. Paid plans start at $39/semi-annual.

User Rating

4.6 out of 5

MindMeister

mindmeister mindmap online interface

MindMeister is a web-based mindmap creator that's known for its simplicity. This mindmap builder suits anyone who values minimalism while thinking without dealing with complex features.

Pros
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Mixed map layouts
  • MS Teams and Google Workspace integration
Cons
  • Limited customization and advanced features
  • Cannot move one shape only
  • Limited supported file formats for export
  • It only works online and as a mobile app

Pricing

Free with limited features, paid plans start at $3.50/user/month/paid annually.

User Rating

4.3 out of 5

Xmind

xmind mindmap editor interface

Xmind is a feature-rich mindmap editor focusing on creative idea management. It offers various diagram types, stickers, and well-designed structures. Xmind is suitable for artistic individuals who need an advanced mindmap tool for task management.

Pros
  • Structure switching and exclusive structure combination
  • Smart customization options
  • Cross-platform compatibility
Cons
  • The steep learning curve for beginners
  • No perpetual package for Xmind Pro

Pricing

Free with limited features, paid plans start at $59.99/year.

User Rating

4.4 out of 5

Coggle

coggle mindmap maker interface

Coggle is a simple mindmap maker that emphasizes real-time editing and sharing. It's known for its straightforward interface, which makes it easy to get started even if you're not creative or an expert. Coggle is perfect for small teams seeking an easy-to-use collaborative mind-mapping solution.

Pros
  • Intuitive, drag-and-drop interface
  • Ease of file sharing
  • Auto-arrange branches
Cons
  • No advanced features for complex projects
  • Limited accessibility
  • Supports limited file formats

Pricing

Free with limited features, professional paid plans start at $5/month.

User Rating

4.5 out of 5

MindNode

mindnode desktop app on macos

With MindNode, you can transform the nodes into tasks so you stay on top of your projects. You can also start a brainstorming session from your device's widget, so you never miss an idea. And thanks to seamless synchronization via iCloud, your ideas are always available on your Mac and iOS devices with this mindmap creator.

Pros
  • Viewing options such as outline and focus modes
  • Ease of use and clean interface
  • Creative customization options, such as visual tags
Cons
  • Limited cross-platform compatibility, not suitable for Windows or Android users

Pricing

Offers a 14-day free trial; paid plan starts at $19.99/year.

User Rating

4.2 out of 5

ClickUp

clickup mindmap on whiteboard view

ClickUp is a versatile project management software that can help you get more done, even when you're working remotely. One of the things that makes ClickUp so powerful is its mindmap tool. With ClickUp, you can create mindmaps to brainstorm ideas, plan projects, and track progress. You can even create mindmaps from your existing tasks to see how everything is connected.

Pros
  • Infinite canvas
  • Colorful templates
  • Integration with other tools like Asana, Airtable, and Wrike
Cons
  • There is a steep learning curve for users only interested in mind-mapping
  • Supports limited file format
  • Limited customization options

Pricing

Free with limited features, paid plans start at $7/user/month.

User Rating

4.7 out of 5

MindManager

mindmanager mindmap creator interface

MindManager is a dedicated mindmap generator that can help you brainstorm ideas, plan projects, and take action. It is popular for its customizable diagrams and planning capabilities, making it a good choice for professionals and businesses.

Pros
  • User-friendly interface
  • Pre-made mindmap templates
  • Integrations with OneDrive and Box
Cons
  • Real-time collaboration is only available in MindManager Windows and MindManager for Microsoft Teams
  • Only professional and enterprise-paid plans offer desktop app access
  • Limited supported file format for exports

Pricing

Offers free trial. The paid plan starts at $99/year.

User Rating

4.5 out of 5

Miro

miro ai generated mindmap

Miro is a digital AI-powered whiteboard that you can use to brainstorm, plan, and collaborate with others. With Miro AI, you can quickly create a mindmap or expand an existing one with new content. Miro mindmap tool is ideal for teams and organizations looking for a visual project management app.

Pros
  • Collaboration features such as a built-in timer, video chat, and more
  • Custom templates
  • Integrations with other apps such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and more
Cons
  • Limited customization options
  • Cannot switch structure
  • Limited supported file formats

Pricing

Free with limited features, paid plans start at $8/user/month, billed annually.

User Rating

4.8 out of 5

Lucidchart

lucidchart mindmap editor interface

Lucidchart is a cloud-based tool that lets you create mindmaps, flowcharts, and other diagrams. Its mindmap tool is perfect for remote workers who need to collaborate on visual projects.

Pros
  • User-friendly interface
  • Real-time collaboration
  • Extensive template library
  • Integration with apps like Microsoft 365, Confluence, Jira, and more
Cons
  • Lacks advanced customization features
  • Limited accessibility
  • No desktop app

Pricing

Free trial available; paid plans start at $7.95/user.

User Rating

4.5 out of 5

Part 3. Tips for Using Mindmap Tools Effectively

A few strategies can go a long way when it comes to using a mindmap tool to its full potential. To make the most of it, consider the following tips:

Start With a Central Idea or Topic

Ensure that your mindmap maker allows you to create a central node easily. It should be intuitive so you can quickly set your focal point on the canvas, which all your related ideas will radiate.

Use Colors and Visual Elements To Enhance Clarity

Your mindmap creator should provide color options for branches and nodes. This flexibility allows you to color-code and highlight important concepts. A built-in library of icons and images can also save you time and enhance the visual appeal of your mindmaps.

Keep Mindmaps Concise and Focused

Look for a mindmap tool to help you easily manage and organize branches. Being able to collapse or expand branches helps maintain focus. Besides that, stick to the core ideas and express them using keywords or brief phrases.

edrawmax collapse branches

Regularly Update and Review Mindmaps for Ongoing Organization

A mindmap is not a static document; it should evolve as your thoughts and projects progress. Revisit and update your mindmap to reflect changes or new insights. Mindmap generators that sync with cloud storage platforms facilitate easy access and updates across devices.

Conclusion

Mindmapping tools are your second brain to help enhance productivity and creativity. These tools simplify idea organization, boost collaboration, and streamline complex concepts. Whether you're a student, professional, or team leader, mindmap tools offer a visual way to tackle tasks efficiently.

To harness these advantages, consider trying the Edrawmax AI-powered mindmap tool. With its other features, Edrawmax empowers you to easily transform ideas into structured, visual diagrams. So, what are you waiting for? Check out Edrawmax today and see how it can help you boost your productivity and creativity.

edrawmax logoEdrawMax Desktop
Simple alternative to Visio
210+ types of diagrams
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Edit diagrams anywhere, anytime
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Zac Jenkins
Zac Jenkins Sep 20, 24
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