Mermaid vs Excalidraw: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Mermaid 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Mermaid
Create diagrams and charts from text in a simple, intuitive, and highly customizable way.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need diagramming features specifically
- • Generates diagrams and charts from text definitions.
- • Supports various diagram types like flowcharts and sequence diagrams.
Excalidraw
Virtual whiteboard for sketching
Best for you if:
- • You need whiteboard features specifically
- • 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 |  Mermaid |  Excalidraw |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Diagramming | Whiteboard |
Rating | 86/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Mermaid | Excalidraw |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | DiagrammingData Visualization | WhiteboardDiagramming |
Understanding the Differences
Both Mermaid and Excalidraw solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Mermaid positions itself as "create diagrams and charts from text in a simple, intuitive, and highly customizable way." while Excalidrawfocuses on "virtual whiteboard for sketching". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Mermaid
Mermaid makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution. With a score of 86/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Excalidraw
Excalidraw is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Mermaid lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Mermaid
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Mermaid handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Mermaid
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Mermaid
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? Mermaid is completely free.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Mermaid higher (86/100). But the community has upvoted Excalidraw more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Mermaid Does Better
- Higher overall score (86/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Excalidraw If
- You need a completely free solution
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Mermaid (86/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Mermaid scores higher in our analysis, but Excalidraw might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mermaid or Excalidraw better?
Based on our analysis, Mermaid scores higher with 86/100. Mermaid isfree while Excalidraw is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Mermaid to Excalidraw easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Mermaid and Excalidraw offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Mermaid is completely free.Excalidraw is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.