Microsoft Visio is a popular computer program used by professionals across various fields for creating diagrams, flowcharts, layouts, plans, and other visual content. Though quite useful, Visio is expensive and may only be affordable for some. Fortunately, several great alternatives to Visio can help you create professional-looking diagrams and charts without breaking the bank.
In this article, we will look at some of the best programs like Visio to consider if you want to enhance your diagramming skills.
In this article
Part 1. What is the Microsoft Visio Computer Program
Microsoft Visio is diagramming and vector graphics software developed by Microsoft. Visio makes use of smart shapes and connectors that snap into place to help users easily create detailed and multi-page diagrams.
While Visio offers powerful diagramming capabilities, it requires an expensive subscription which may not suit smaller teams and individual users. That's where some good Visio alternatives can come in handy.
Part 2. Best Programs Similar to Visio for Diagram Creation
Here are some of the best programs like Visio to consider for all your diagramming and charting needs:
#1 EdrawMax
EdrawMax is a versatile diagramming tool for creating flowcharts, org charts, mind maps, network diagrams, floor plans, and over 280 diagram types. Key features include
- Over 5000 vector symbols and templates.
- Drag-and-drop interface for easy editing.
- Smart auto-alignment, auto-formatting, and auto-layout tools.
- Cross-platform support across Windows, Mac, Linux, and web.
- Team collaboration tools.
- Export files as image files, PDF, Word, HTML, PowerPoint, and more.
#2 Creately
Creately is an online Visio alternative for making flowcharts, wireframes, UML diagrams, mind maps, and more. Core features:
- Intuitive drag-and-drop editor.
- Numerous templates for flowcharts, organizational charts, wireframes, etc.
- Shape search to find shapes quickly.
- Real-time collaboration for teams.
- Integrations with various apps like Confluence, Jira, Google Suite, etc.
- Export as PNG, JPEG, PDF, PowerPoint, and more.
#3 Lucidchart
Lucidchart is another fully-featured online diagramming tool great for flowcharts, org charts, ER diagrams, UML diagrams, and more. Benefits include:
- Drag and drop visual editor with auto-align and formatting.
- 100+ diagram types with 2000+ templates.
- Real-time collaboration capabilities.
- Integrations with tools like Confluence, Jira, Salesforce, Google Drive, and more.
- Automated sizing, formatting, and styling of shapes and connectors.
- Share and export diagrams as PDF, PNG, JPEG, Visio, and more.
#4 Draw.io
Draw.io is free, open-source diagramming software that runs in the browser. It's great for flowcharts, UML diagrams, BPMN diagrams, network diagrams, and more. Key highlights:
- Extensive shape libraries for flowcharts, AWS diagrams, ER diagrams, etc.
- Real-time collaboration ability.
- Auto-align, distribute, and snap-to-grid features.
- Supports JPG, PNG, PDF, and SVG image export.
- Offers desktop apps as well for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
#5 Google Drawings
Google Drawings is a free web-based diagramming tool part of the Google Docs suite. Useful for quick and easy flowcharts, organizational charts, mind maps, and more. Core strengths:
- Intuitive interface with drag-drop capabilities
- Decent collection of basic shapes and connectors
- Real-time collaboration with other Google Suite users
- Easy sharing via Google Drive and exporting as JPG, PNG, PDF, SVG, etc.
- Simple integration with other Google Workspace apps
Part 3. Best Visio Alternative - EdrawMax: Key Features and Overview
Out of all the Visio alternatives mentioned above, EdrawMax stands out as one of the most powerful and versatile options. Here is a summary highlighting some of its main features:
Powerful Editing Capabilities
EdrawMax provides advanced editing tools like drag-and-drop, auto-align, auto-distribute, auto-snap and more to help easily create professional diagrams in minutes. It also offers smart formatting options.
Extensive Diagram Types
It allows the creation of over 280 diagram types including flowcharts, mind maps, UML diagrams, work breakdown structures, network diagrams, org charts, floor plans, electrical diagrams, and more for all business and engineering needs.
Massive Symbol Library
Over 5000 vector symbols and clip art across various categories are available to depict different elements, making diagram creation quick and efficient.
Cross-platform Support
EdrawMax is available on Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms. The web-based version allows accessing it on any device from anywhere.
Import and Export Options
Diagrams created in Visio and other formats like PDF, Excel, and Gliffy can be imported. Finished diagrams can be exported as JPG, PNG, PDF, HTML, Word, PowerPoint, and more.
Part 4. Steps to Create a Simple Flowchart using EdrawMax
Let's look at how to quickly create a flowchart in EdrawMax:
Step 1: Download and install EdrawMax on your PC. Launch EdrawMax and select the "Basic Flowchart" template under the Flowchart category.
Step 2: Drag and drop flowchart shapes like the terminator, process, decision, etc. from the left panels onto the canvas.
Step 3: Connect the flowchart shapes using the connector tool and add arrows indicating the flow. Double-click on shapes to add text and labels to depict workflow steps.
Step 4: Apply any final custom formatting or styling as desired.
Step 5: Click "Save" to store the flowchart locally or on the cloud for collaboration. Export the finished flowchart as a JPG, PNG, PDF, or other supported formats.
Conclusion
Microsoft Visio is a powerful diagramming software but can be expensive for individual users and smaller teams. Luckily, several alternatives like EdrawMax, Creately, Lucidchart, Draw.io, and Google Drawings provide similar diagramming capabilities at lower price points.
Programs like EdrawMax even go beyond Visio by offering cross-platform access, extensive shape libraries, collaboration tools, and numerous export abilities at an affordable one-time cost.
EdrawMax DesktopEdrawMax Online
