Jmol alternatives: 4 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave Jmol: desktop app needs Java installed, and dated look compared with PyMOL or ChimeraX. We ranked 4 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Jmol, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. PyMOL currently ranks first.
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Show all 4 alternativesThe best Jmol alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best Jmol alternative for most people
PyMOLMore polished rendering for publication figures, with Python scripting.
Best Jmol alternative for a free option
VMDBetter for large biomolecular systems and simulation trajectories.
Best Jmol alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
UCSF ChimeraXModern free-for-academics tool with cryo-EM map support and VR.
Best Jmol alternative for Mac
AvogadroFree and open source like Jmol, but also lets you build and optimise molecules, not just view them.
Best Jmol alternative for Windows
PyMOLMore polished rendering for publication figures, with Python scripting.
Best Jmol alternative for Linux
PyMOLMore polished rendering for publication figures, with Python scripting.
Jmol alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to Jmol?
PyMOL ranks first right now. More polished rendering for publication figures, with Python scripting. UCSF ChimeraX and VMD follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to Jmol?
Yes. UCSF ChimeraX (free plan + paid), VMD (free) and Avogadro (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to Jmol?
None of the 4 alternatives in this list is open source.
Which Jmol alternatives work on Linux?
PyMOL, UCSF ChimeraX, VMD and Avogadro run on Linux.
Why do people switch from Jmol?
The complaints we hear most: desktop app needs Java installed; dated look compared with PyMOL or ChimeraX; not built for cryo-EM maps or very large trajectories.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Jmol, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.