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 |  Gliffy |  Excalidraw |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | UI/UX Design | UI/UX Design |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Gliffy | Excalidraw |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| 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
What's your budget?
Gliffy is freemium. Excalidraw is free. Go with Excalidraw if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are ui/ux design tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
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.