Skip to content

Gliffy vs Excalidraw: Which Should You Choose in 2026?

Choosing between Gliffy and Excalidraw 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.

By Toolradar Team · Last updated March 22, 2026 · Methodology

Short on time? Here's the quick answer

We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:

Gliffy

Diagramming for Confluence

Best for you if:

    0
  • Cloud-based diagramming tool with native Confluence and Jira integration
  • AI-powered diagram generation, Zero Egress deployment, and SOC 2/HIPAA compliance

Excalidraw

Virtual whiteboard for sketching

Best for you if:

    0
  • • You need something completely free
  • Open-source virtual whiteboard for hand-drawn style diagrams and sketches.
  • Features real-time collaboration, voice chat, and export to PNG, SVG, and PDF.
At a Glance
GliffyGliffy
ExcalidrawExcalidraw
Price
Free + PaidFree
Best For
UI/UX DesignUI/UX Design
Rating
FeatureGliffyExcalidraw
Pricing ModelFreemiumFree
Community RatingNo ratings yetNo ratings yet
Total Reviews00
Community Upvotes
208
0
Categories
UI/UX DesignGraphic Design
UI/UX DesignWhiteboard

How Gliffy and Excalidraw Compare

Gliffy

Diagramming for Confluence

Free tier available

Excalidraw

Virtual whiteboard for sketching

Free

Who Should Use What?

On a budget?

Excalidraw is free. Gliffy is freemium.

Go with: Excalidraw

Want the highest-rated option?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Go with: Gliffy

Value user reviews?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Go with: Gliffy

3 Questions to Help You Decide

1

What's your budget?

Gliffy is freemium. Excalidraw is free. Go with Excalidraw if free matters most.

2

What's your use case?

Both are ui/ux design tools. Compare their specific features to decide.

3

How important are ratings?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Key Takeaways

Gliffy

    0
  • More community upvotes (208)
  • Free tier available
  • Our pick for this comparison

Excalidraw

  • Completely free

The Bottom Line

Gliffy is our pick. That said, Excalidraw is free — hard to beat on price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gliffy or Excalidraw better?

Gliffy is rated high in our evaluation. Gliffy is freemium and Excalidraw is free.

What are Gliffy and Excalidraw used for?

Gliffy: Diagramming for Confluence. Excalidraw: Virtual whiteboard for sketching.

What does Gliffy cost vs Excalidraw?

Gliffy is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Excalidraw is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.

Related Comparisons & Resources

Compare other tools