Creately is a highly recommended SaaS collaboration tool, especially for diagramming and team collaboration. However, no single tool fits everyone's needs perfectly. Whether you need more features, a different user interface, or a more affordable option, exploring alternatives can lead you to the best tool for your specific requirements. In this guide, we explore five top Creately alternatives based on user experience, features, and value for money.
In this article
Key Factors to Consider in a Diagramming Tool
When choosing a diagramming tool, it's essential to consider several key factors to ensure the tool meets your needs. These factors include:
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality and pre-designed templates can significantly enhance your productivity.
- Customization Options: The ability to customize shapes, colors, fonts, and layouts is crucial for creating diagrams that meet your specific requirements.
- Software Website Reviews: It's important to consider user feedback and ratings from authoritative sources like G2 and Capterra before making a decision.
Top 5 Creately Alternatives
1. EdrawMax
Wondershare EdrawMax is a powerful diagramming tool offering extensive features for students, beginners, and professionals. It provides a wide range of templates and customization options, making it a versatile choice for various diagramming needs.
Features:
- Templates: 1,500+ user-generated templates.
- AI Assistance: Quickly create complex diagrams using AI prompts.
- Cloud Sync: Save your diagrams to personal cloud storage.
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People Like It For:
- Wide range of templates and symbols.
- Advanced AI assistance.
- Infinite canvas and extensive customization options.
People Dislike It For:
- Too many customization options can be overwhelming.
- Additional credits are required for AI access.
Price:
- Free
- Subscription Plan: $99/year
- Lifetime Plan: $198
- Lifetime Bundle Plan: $245
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Rating:
- G2: 4.3/5 (based on 61 reviews)
- Capterra: 4.6/5 (based on 204 reviews)
2. Miro
Miro is an online collaboration platform known for its extensive features that help teams communicate and collaborate effectively. It also includes AI-assisted creation tools to enhance productivity.
Features:
- Templates: Pre-built templates and frameworks.
- Infinite Canvas: Vector capabilities allow for limitless creativity.
- Collaboration: Easy screen sharing and presentation features.
People Like It For:
- Easy collaboration features.
- Effective presentation tools.
- Vision board and timeline features.
People Dislike It For:
- Tool can become laggy.
- Navigation can be challenging.
Price:
- Free
- Starter: $8/month per member (billed annually)
- Business: $16/month per member (billed annually)
Rating:
- G2: 4.8/5 (based on 5,691 reviews)
- Capterra: 4.7/5 (based on 1,540 reviews)
3. SmartDraw
SmartDraw is known for its extensive template library and ease of use, making it a versatile tool for creating a wide range of diagrams, from flowcharts to floor plans.
Features:
- Extensive Template Library: A wide variety of pre-designed templates.
- Software Integration: Integrates with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
People Like It For:
- Ease of use and built-in templates.
- Intuitive layout and on-screen tools.
People Dislike It For:
- Editing issues reported by users.
- Limited customization options in the free version.
Price:
- Single User: $9.95/month (billed annually)
- Multiple Users: $8.25/month (billed annually)
Rating:
- G2: 4.6/5 (based on 265 reviews)
- Capterra: 4.1/5 (based on 112 reviews)
4. Draw.io
Draw.io is a free, web-based diagramming tool that offers robust features for creating flowcharts, network diagrams, and more. It integrates seamlessly with Google Drive for easy cloud collaboration.
Features:
- Free and Web-Based: No subscription required.
- Cloud Integration: Integrates with Google Drive, OneDrive, and other cloud storage providers.
People Like It For:
- Intuitive design and templates.
- Cloud storage and auto-sync features.
People Dislike It For:
- Limited free templates for beginners.
- Lack of customization options.
Price:
- Free
Rating:
- G2: 4.4/5 (based on 403 reviews)
- Capterra: 4.6/5 (based on 755 reviews)
5. Visio
MS Visio is a professional diagramming tool widely used in business environments. It offers advanced features for creating detailed and complex diagrams and integrates seamlessly with the Microsoft Office Suite.
Features:
- Microsoft Integration: Seamlessly integrates with the Microsoft Office Suite.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Multiple users can collaborate on diagrams in real time with Visio Plan 2.
People Like It For:
- Integration with Office 365.
- Capability to create multiple diagrams under one panel.
People Dislike It For:
- Visio Plan 2 is not available for macOS users.
- Visio Plans are relatively expensive.
Price:
- Visio Plan 1: $5/user/month
- Visio Plan 2: $15/user/month
Rating:
- G2: 4.2/5 (based on 659 reviews)
- Capterra: 4.5/5 (based on 3,138 reviews)
Conclusion
Each of these Creately alternatives offers a unique set of features and benefits, catering to different user needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a free option, like Draw.io, or a feature-rich professional tool, like Visio, there's a diagramming tool out there to match your requirements. Consider your specific needs, review the user feedback, and choose the best tool for your workflow.