iThoughts alternatives: 5 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave iThoughts: no more updates or bug fixes, and can't buy new licences. We ranked 5 alternatives by how directly each one replaces iThoughts, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. MindNode currently ranks first.
iThoughts has been discontinued. toketaWare ceased trading on 30 January 2024; the apps get no further updates or support.
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Show all 5 alternativesThe best iThoughts alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best iThoughts alternative for most people
MindNodeActively developed Apple-native mind mapping app with a free tier.
Best iThoughts alternative for a free option
FreeplaneFree, open-source and able to open FreeMind-format exports.
Best iThoughts alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
SimpleMindOne-off purchase like iThoughts, on Mac, Windows, iOS and Android.
Best iThoughts alternative for open source
FreeplaneFree, open-source and able to open FreeMind-format exports.
Best iThoughts alternative for Mac
XmindImports common mind map formats and runs on every major platform.
Best iThoughts alternative for Windows
MindManagerReads MindManager files exported from iThoughts, with business features.
Best iThoughts alternative for Linux
XmindImports common mind map formats and runs on every major platform.
Best iThoughts alternative for iPhone and Android
SimpleMindOne-off purchase like iThoughts, on Mac, Windows, iOS and Android.
Best iThoughts alternative for working in the browser
XmindImports common mind map formats and runs on every major platform.
iThoughts alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to iThoughts?
MindNode ranks first right now. Actively developed Apple-native mind mapping app with a free tier. SimpleMind and Xmind follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to iThoughts?
Yes. MindNode (free plan + paid), SimpleMind (free plan + paid), Xmind (free plan + paid) and Freeplane (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to iThoughts?
Yes: Freeplane.
Which iThoughts alternatives work on Linux?
Xmind and Freeplane run on Linux.
Why do people switch from iThoughts?
The complaints we hear most: no more updates or bug fixes; can't buy new licences; may stop working after future OS updates.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces iThoughts, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.