Mermaid vs FigJam
Mermaid is javaScript-based diagramming tool that renders diagrams from text definitions, while FigJam is collaborative whiteboard from Figma for brainstorming, diagramming, and workshops. Mermaid is open source and can be self-hosted, giving you full control over your data. Mermaid is built for developers wanting text-based diagrams in markdown, whereas FigJam targets figma users wanting collaborative brainstorming and diagramming.
| Feature | Mermaid | FigJam |
|---|---|---|
| Free tier available | ✓ | ✓ |
| Open source | ✓ | — |
| Git-Friendly | ✓ | — |
| Many Chart Types | ✓ | — |
| Markdown | ✓ | — |
| Sticky Notes | — | ✓ |
| Text-Based | ✓ | — |
| Voting | — | ✓ |
| Whiteboard | — | ✓ |
| Widgets | — | ✓ |
Pricing: Both Mermaid and FigJam are free. You can try both without spending a dollar.
Feature gaps: Mermaid offers Git-Friendly, Many Chart Types and Markdown that FigJam lacks. FigJam brings Sticky Notes, Voting and Whiteboard that Mermaid does not have.
Team fit: Mermaid is geared toward individual users and small setups, while FigJam is aimed at any size teams. Pick the one that matches where your team is today and where it is headed — migrating tools later is always painful.
Open source: Mermaid 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: Mermaid's biggest strengths are: open source and transparent. includes text-based 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 Mermaid, 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 Mermaid if
- Your profile matches its sweet spot: developers wanting text-based diagrams in markdown
- You need self-hosting, data sovereignty, or the ability to audit source code
- You specifically need Git-Friendly and Many Chart Types
- You care about includes text-based as a core feature, purpose-built for diagramming workflows
- Your team size fits the individuals profile Mermaid is designed for
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
- Your team size fits the any size profile FigJam is designed for
- The free tier works for you: free for 3 figjam files
frequently asked
What is the difference between Mermaid and FigJam?
Mermaid is javaScript-based diagramming tool that renders diagrams from text definitions, while FigJam is collaborative whiteboard from Figma for brainstorming, diagramming, and workshops. Mermaid is open source and can be self-hosted, giving you full control over your data. Mermaid is built for developers wanting text-based diagrams in markdown, whereas FigJam targets figma users wanting collaborative brainstorming and diagramming.
Should I use Mermaid or FigJam?
Mermaid gives you open source and self-hosting; FigJam is a managed service. Which trade-off works for you?
When should I choose Mermaid over FigJam?
Choose Mermaid if Your profile matches its sweet spot: developers wanting text-based diagrams in markdown; You need self-hosting, data sovereignty, or the ability to audit source code; You specifically need Git-Friendly and Many Chart Types; You care about includes text-based as a core feature, purpose-built for diagramming workflows; Your team size fits the individuals profile Mermaid is designed for.
When should I choose FigJam over Mermaid?
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; Your team size fits the any size profile FigJam is designed for; The free tier works for you: free for 3 figjam files.
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