Side by side
drawDB vs ERBuilder Data Modeler
Both stand on data modeling software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Self-hostedWeb
drawDB covers database diagram imports, exports, and multiple dialects, with collaboration and AI functions listed in its Pro plans. Note the browser-profile storage behavior and schema sharing with the AI service when deciding which workflow fits.
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Free plan Windows
ERBuilder covers both forward and reverse database engineering, with a broad list of supported databases. Its paid editions add capabilities such as Git collaboration and documentation generation, while the license type affects machine and network requirements.
Visit ERBuilder Data ModelerThe facts
| drawDB | ERBuilder Data Modeler | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Self-hosted, Web | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Professional: $139 a year |
| Plans published | 5 | 7 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | drawdb.app | soft-builder.com |
| On data modeling software | #6 of 27 | #10 of 27 |
drawDB: what it does well
- Supports seven diagram dialect options, including generic.
- Imports SQL scripts and exports multiple diagram formats.
- The Free plan costs nothing.
- Docker self-hosting is available.
What to know first
- Open-source diagrams are tied to the browser profile.
- MCP does not connect directly to web-only ChatGPT or claude.ai.
- AI operations send the diagram schema to the AI service.
ERBuilder Data Modeler: what it does well
- Supports four diagram notations.
- Generates DDL scripts and databases from models.
- Reverse engineers existing databases into graphical models.
- Trial provides all features for 15 days.
- Enterprise supports Git collaboration and documentation generation.
What to know first
- Available on Windows only.
- Workstation licenses are limited to one machine.
- Floating licenses require a minimum order quantity of two.
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