Draw.io (diagrams.net) vs FigJam
Draw.io (diagrams.net) is free, open-source diagramming tool that works in the browser with no account needed, while FigJam is collaborative whiteboard from Figma for brainstorming, diagramming, and workshops. Draw.io (diagrams.net) is open source and can be self-hosted, giving you full control over your data. Draw.io (diagrams.net) is built for anyone wanting free, full-featured diagramming, whereas FigJam targets figma users wanting collaborative brainstorming and diagramming.
| Feature | Draw.io (diagrams.net) | FigJam |
|---|---|---|
| Free tier available | ✓ | ✓ |
| Open source | ✓ | — |
| Confluence Plugin | ✓ | — |
| Free | ✓ | — |
| Many Shapes | ✓ | — |
| No Account | ✓ | — |
| Sticky Notes | — | ✓ |
| Voting | — | ✓ |
| Whiteboard | — | ✓ |
| Widgets | — | ✓ |
Pricing: Both Draw.io (diagrams.net) and FigJam are free. You can try both without spending a dollar.
Feature gaps: Draw.io (diagrams.net) offers Confluence Plugin, Free and Many Shapes that FigJam lacks. FigJam brings Sticky Notes, Voting and Whiteboard that Draw.io (diagrams.net) does not have.
Team fit: Both tools target any size teams, so the decision hinges on features and workflow fit rather than scale.
Open source: Draw.io (diagrams.net) is open source, meaning you can self-host, audit the code, and avoid vendor lock-in. FigJam is proprietary — you are trusting the vendor with your data and uptime.
Where each tool shines: Draw.io (diagrams.net)'s biggest strengths are: open source and transparent. includes free as a core feature, purpose-built for diagramming workflows. FigJam's biggest strengths are: infinite whiteboard canvas for brainstorming and visual thinking. sticky notes and drawing tools make remote workshops feel hands-on.
Watch out for: With Draw.io (diagrams.net), users commonly note that may lack some advanced features. With FigJam, the main complaint is that free plan exists but key features are locked behind the paid upgrade.
choose Draw.io (diagrams.net) if
- You need a tool built for anyone wanting free, full-featured diagramming
- You need self-hosting, data sovereignty, or the ability to audit source code
- You specifically need Confluence Plugin and Free
- You care about includes free as a core feature, purpose-built for diagramming workflows
choose FigJam if
- You need a tool built for figma users wanting collaborative brainstorming and diagramming
- You specifically need Sticky Notes and Voting
- You care about sticky notes and drawing tools make remote workshops feel hands-on
- The free tier works for you: free for 3 figjam files
frequently asked
What is the difference between Draw.io (diagrams.net) and FigJam?
Draw.io (diagrams.net) is free, open-source diagramming tool that works in the browser with no account needed, while FigJam is collaborative whiteboard from Figma for brainstorming, diagramming, and workshops. Draw.io (diagrams.net) is open source and can be self-hosted, giving you full control over your data. Draw.io (diagrams.net) is built for anyone wanting free, full-featured diagramming, whereas FigJam targets figma users wanting collaborative brainstorming and diagramming.
Should I use Draw.io (diagrams.net) or FigJam?
Draw.io (diagrams.net) gives you open source and self-hosting; FigJam is a managed service. Which trade-off works for you?
When should I choose Draw.io (diagrams.net) over FigJam?
Choose Draw.io (diagrams.net) if You need a tool built for anyone wanting free, full-featured diagramming; You need self-hosting, data sovereignty, or the ability to audit source code; You specifically need Confluence Plugin and Free; You care about includes free as a core feature, purpose-built for diagramming workflows.
When should I choose FigJam over Draw.io (diagrams.net)?
Choose FigJam if You need a tool built for figma users wanting collaborative brainstorming and diagramming; You specifically need Sticky Notes and Voting; You care about sticky notes and drawing tools make remote workshops feel hands-on; The free tier works for you: free for 3 figjam files.
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