Visio by Microsoft is one of the most widely-used diagramming tools, allowing users to create flowcharts, diagrams, organizational charts, and more and offering robust features and integration with other Microsoft products.
Nevertheless, it does not have a desktop version for macOS, while the system is also universally used. As a result, many people have to seek an alternative for Mac. So in this article, we will recommend 10 top Visio alternatives that could be used on Mac.
10 Best Visio Equivalents for Mac
Visual aids help to simplify complex concepts, clarify relationships, and provide a clear overview of processes and structures. For example, flowcharts streamline workflows, and diagrams aid in problem-solving. Visio is an excellent tool for this.
However, Visio is not available on macOS, so Mac users must find a replacement. Thankfully, there are a plethora of good diagramming tools. And the following are some of the best options.
EdrawMax
EdrawMax is an application that lets you create diagrams, flowcharts, org charts, P&ID drawings, and more. What’s best? You can try it online for free.
Points | Explanation |
System Compatibility | Mac, Windows, Linux, Web |
G2 Rating | 4.3 / 5 stars |
User Review | Abdul W. said on G2 that Edrawmax is the "go-to app for all your diagram needs." They loved the feature-richness, provided templates, intuitive interface, and plugin support. |
User Groups: |
|
Key Features
Here are EdrawMax's key features.
Over 210 Types of Diagrams
EdrawMax allows you to make all sorts of visuals. Would you like to make a professional-looking organization chart for your group or company? EdrawMax got you covered.
Likewise, it allows you to make diagrams, flowcharts, and mind maps. And it does not stop there. EdrawMax also lets you create niche ones, like floor plans, P&ID drawings, wiring diagrams, and more. This tool offers 280 types of diagram solutions!
A Wide Collection of Editable Templates
Creating these visual aids in EdrawMax is also very easy. It offers 15,000 built-in templates and over 26,000 symbols! So rest assured, you can find the resources that you need.
Share Projects Easily
EdrawMax also makes collaboration easy. You can share your projects on different platforms. Alternatively, you can copy a shareable link you can send to your team. You can control whether or not visitors can edit or only view the project.
Security
Data security is essential, and EdrawMax understands that. As such, all information and file transfers are safeguarded with the highest level of SSL encryption. You can rest assured that no one else can access your projects except you and the ones you have allowed to.
Cons:
- There is a slight learning curve. EdrawMax is a feature-rich tool that provides you with many options. That is great, but it can be overwhelming at the start. But as you use the tool more, you'll find the tool more straightforward to use.
- The free version of EdrawMax has limited capabilities.
Creately
Creately is a visual collaboration tool with diagramming capabilities. It has an online and offline version you can download on your Mac, Windows, or Linux computer.
Points | Explanation |
System Compatibility | Mac, Windows, Linux, Web |
G2 Rating | 4.4 / 5 stars |
User Rating | User Piyush K. says in a G2 review that Creately offers an intuitive interface, which allows for easy creation of visually stunning diagrams. |
User Groups: |
|
Draw.io
Draw.io is a simple online diagramming tool. Draw.io is free and does not require registration.
Points | Explanation |
System Compatibility | Mac, Windows, Linux, Web |
G2 Rating | 4.4 / 5 stars |
User Review | User Piyush K. says in a G2 review that Creately offers an intuitive interface, which allows for easy creation of visually stunning diagrams. |
User Groups: |
|
MindMeister
MindMeister is an online mind-mapping application.
Points | Explanation |
System Compatibility | Web |
G2 Rating | 4.4 / 5 stars |
User Review | User Shivam M. wrote a review on G2. He loves the tool's simplicity. "It lets me use all its functions and capabilities by just dragging and dropping," he says. And he adds that you don't need a subscription to use all the tool's features. |
User Groups: |
|
Whimsical
Whimsical markets itself as a "hub for visual collaboration." It's a platform that lets you combine whiteboarding, diagramming, and more.
Points | Explanation |
System Compatibility | Web |
G2 Rating | 4.3 / 5 stars |
User Review | Pedro C. said on G2 that they love how MindMeister allows them to deliver presentations to clients. It also lets them brainstorm projects and concepts in a super easy way. Furthermore, the templates and icons are handy. |
User Groups: |
|
Miro
Miro was formerly known as "RealtimeBoard." It is an online visual platform for teams to connect, collaborate, and create.
Points | Explanation |
System Compatibility | |
G2 Rating | 4.6 / 5 stars |
User Review | Lori F. says in a Abdul W. said on G2 review that it is easy to create mind maps using Whimsical. They also commended the fantastic support through live chat. |
User Groups: |
|
SmartDraw
SmartDraw is a diagramming web app teams use to collaborate on making flowcharts, mind maps, etc.
Points | Explanation |
System Compatibility | Mac, Windows, Web |
G2 Rating | 4.8 / 5 stars |
User Review | User Rodrigo F. left a review on Abdul W. said on G2. They loved how easy it is to make diagrams on Miro. Also, they loved its collaboration tools. Their much-loved features are being able to leave comments and vote on the best idea. |
User Groups: |
|
OmniGraffle
OmniGraffle is a digital illustration and diagramming app for Mac and iOS devices.
Points | Explanation |
System Compatibility | Windows, Mac, Web |
G2 Rating | 4.6 / 5 stars |
User Review | User Srikanth B. wrote a G2 review for SmartDraw. He said SmartDraw is suitable for flowcharts, VSM, and more because it offers many symbols and shapes. |
User Groups: |
|
Figma
Figma is a software program for designing user interfaces. You can use it to collaborate with your team in real-time.
Points | Explanation |
Supported Platforms | Mac, Windows, Linux, Web |
G2 Rating | 4.7 / 5 stars |
User Rating | UX/UI designer Gouni A. wrote a G2 review. He said Figma is user-friendly and flexible. Also, he loved how it is a web-based app, but it does not cause data loss. |
User Groups: |
|
Cacoo
Cacoo aims to let users diagram from anywhere. It also seeks to provide an easy-to-use tool without sacrificing users' desired features.
Points | Explanation |
System Compatibility | Windows, Mac, Web |
G2 Rating | 4.7 / 5 stars |
User Review | UX/UI designer Gouni A. wrote a G2 review. He said Figma is user-friendly and flexible. Also, he loved how it is a web-based app, but it does not cause data loss. |
User Groups: |
|
Conclusion
For Mac users seeking a powerful Visio alternative, EdrawMax stands out as an excellent choice. It has a user-friendly interface, an extensive library of templates, and comprehensive diagramming capabilities. With these, EdrawMax offers a seamless experience for creating professional diagrams and visuals on macOS.
Whether you are a student, business professional, or designer, EdrawMax's versatility and compatibility make it a reliable and efficient tool for all your diagramming needs. Embrace EdrawMax and unlock a world of possibilities to bring your ideas to life on your Mac effortlessly.