Graphviz alternatives: 4 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave Graphviz: no visual editor, and styling is fiddly. We ranked 4 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Graphviz, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. D2 currently ranks first.
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Show all 4 alternativesThe best Graphviz alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best Graphviz alternative for most people
D2A modern diagram language with nicer defaults that can use several layout engines.
Best Graphviz alternative for a free option
MermaidSimpler syntax with native rendering in GitHub and many docs tools.
Best Graphviz alternative for self-hosting
MermaidSimpler syntax with native rendering in GitHub and many docs tools.
Best Graphviz alternative for Mac
yEd Graph EditorA free GUI editor with strong automatic layouts if you'd rather click than code.
Best Graphviz alternative for Windows
D2A modern diagram language with nicer defaults that can use several layout engines.
Best Graphviz alternative for Linux
D2A modern diagram language with nicer defaults that can use several layout engines.
Best Graphviz alternative for working in the browser
D2A modern diagram language with nicer defaults that can use several layout engines.
Graphviz alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to Graphviz?
D2 ranks first right now. A modern diagram language with nicer defaults that can use several layout engines. Mermaid and yEd Graph Editor follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to Graphviz?
Yes. D2 (open source), Mermaid (open source), yEd Graph Editor (free) and PlantUML (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to Graphviz?
Yes: D2, Mermaid and PlantUML. Mermaid and PlantUML can also be self-hosted.
Which Graphviz alternatives work on Linux?
D2, yEd Graph Editor and PlantUML run on Linux.
Why do people switch from Graphviz?
The complaints we hear most: no visual editor; styling is fiddly; output looks plain without effort.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Graphviz, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.