Side by side
Creately vs Mermaid
Both stand on diagram software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APILinuxMac+3
Creately combines visual planning and diagramming with real-time collaboration, templates, and role-based sharing. The free plan has clear canvas and import limits, while the listed paid amounts are not exposed beyond the $5/mo (annual) starting note.
Visit Creately
Free plan APIExtensionLinux+4
Mermaid supports a broad range of diagram types and multiple ways to create, edit and share diagrams. Review the Basic tier’s limits and the stated browser or runtime requirements for your setup.
Visit MermaidThe facts
| Creately | Mermaid | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | API, Extension, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Business: $89 a month | Plus: $10 a month |
| Plans published | 5 | 4 |
| Maker | Creately | Not published |
| Website | creately.com | mermaid.js.org |
| On diagram software | #4 of 36 | #15 of 36 |
Creately: what it does well
- Infinite canvas supports several visual workflows
- Real-time editing includes comments and tasks
- Free plan includes unlimited canvases and collaborators
- On-Prem offers self-hosted deployment
What to know first
- Free canvases are limited to 45 items
- Free plan includes one folder and two imports
- SVG and PDF exports require premium plans
Mermaid: what it does well
- Covers ten listed diagram types.
- Supports real-time co-editing and shareable live links.
- Imports .mmd and exports PNG, SVG or Markdown.
- Version history is available.
- Offers Live Editor, npm, CDN and API deployment.
What to know first
- Basic is limited to six diagrams.
- Basic diagram size limit is 60.
- npm installation requires Node.js 22.12.0 or later.
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