Diagrams.net vs OmniGraffle: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Diagrams.net and OmniGraffle comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: Diagrams.net is our overall pick for diagramming workflows. Pick OmniGraffle if you need UI/UX design.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Diagrams.net
Free, secure diagramming for flowcharts, UML, and more
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need diagramming features specifically
- • Free, open-source diagramming tool for flowcharts, UML, ERD, network diagrams, and more
- • No login required, works in browser or as a desktop app with flexible storage options
OmniGraffle
Precision diagramming for Mac and iOS professionals
Best for you if:
- • You need UI/UX design features specifically
- • Professional diagramming tool for macOS and iOS with precision drawing and stencils
- • One-time license from $149.99 (Mac Standard) or $129.99/year subscription for all platforms
| At a Glance |  Diagrams.net |  OmniGraffle |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | Custom |
Best For | Diagramming | UI/UX Design |
Rating | 3.6/5 | 4.3/5 |
Choose Diagrams.net or OmniGraffle?
Choose Diagrams.net if
Free, secure diagramming for flowcharts, UML, and more
- Completely free for individual use with no feature restrictions
- No account or login required, instant access via browser
- Open-source with transparent security and self-hosting option
- You want a fully free tool (OmniGraffle requires payment)
- Your work is diagramming-shaped, not UI/UX design-shaped
Choose OmniGraffle if
Precision diagramming for Mac and iOS professionals
- Native macOS app with polished, responsive performance
- One-time purchase option avoids recurring subscription costs
- Stencil ecosystem covers network, UML, floor plans, and more
- Your work is UI/UX design-shaped, not diagramming-shaped
| Feature | Diagrams.net | OmniGraffle |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| User Rating | ★3.6/5 243 reviews | ★4.3/5 155 reviews |
| Categories | DiagrammingProductivity | UI/UX DesignGraphic Design |
In-Depth Analysis
Diagrams.net
Free, secure diagramming for flowcharts, UML, and more
Strengths
- +Completely free for individual use with no feature restrictions
- +No account or login required, instant access via browser
- +Open-source with transparent security and self-hosting option
- +Files stored in your own cloud or locally, no vendor lock-in
- +Broad diagram type support from flowcharts to cloud architecture
Weaknesses
- -Atlassian integration (Confluence/Jira) requires a paid license
- -UI feels utilitarian compared to polished competitors like Lucidchart or Miro
- -Real-time collaboration is newer and less mature than dedicated whiteboard tools
- -No built-in presentation mode or slide deck export
- -Limited template gallery compared to commercial diagramming tools
Key features
OmniGraffle
Precision diagramming for Mac and iOS professionals
Strengths
- +Native macOS app with polished, responsive performance
- +One-time purchase option avoids recurring subscription costs
- +Stencil ecosystem covers network, UML, floor plans, and more
- +Handles both technical diagrams and creative design work
- +14-day free trial with no credit card required
Weaknesses
- -Apple-only, no Windows or Linux version available
- -Pro features like Visio import locked behind higher tier
- -No real-time collaboration or multiplayer editing
- -Subscription required for cross-platform access on all devices
Key features
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Diagrams.net is free. OmniGraffle is paid.
Go with: Diagrams.net
Want the highest-rated option?
Diagrams.net: 3.6/5 (243 reviews). OmniGraffle: 4.3/5 (155 reviews).
Go with: OmniGraffle
Value user reviews?
Diagrams.net: 243 reviews (3.6/5). OmniGraffle: 155 reviews (4.3/5).
Go with: Diagrams.net
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Diagrams.net is free. OmniGraffle is paid. Go with Diagrams.net if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Diagrams.net is a diagramming tool. OmniGraffle is in UI/UX design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
OmniGraffle is rated higher: 4.3/5 vs 3.6/5.
Key Takeaways
Diagrams.net
- Larger review base (243 reviews)
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
OmniGraffle
- Higher user rating: 4.3/5 vs 3.6/5
- Better fit for UI/UX design
The Bottom Line
Diagrams.net is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Diagrams.net or OmniGraffle better?
Diagrams.net is rated in our evaluation. Diagrams.net is free and OmniGraffle is paid.
What are Diagrams.net and OmniGraffle used for?
Diagrams.net: Free, secure diagramming for flowcharts, UML, and more. OmniGraffle: Precision diagramming for Mac and iOS professionals.
What does Diagrams.net cost vs OmniGraffle?
Diagrams.net is completely free. OmniGraffle is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.