Side by side
Mermaid vs Software Ideas Modeler
Both stand on diagramming tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
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 Mermaid Free plan LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
Software Ideas Modeler brings broad diagram coverage together with code and database modeling tools. Its edition features vary, and real-time collaboration requires Software Ideas Server.
Visit Software Ideas ModelerThe facts
| Mermaid | Software Ideas Modeler | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | No |
| Runs on | API, Extension, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Plus: $10 a month | Software Ideas Modeler starting price: $59 per user, paid once |
| Plans published | 4 | 6 |
| Maker | Not published | Software Ideas Modeler |
| Website | mermaid.js.org | softwareideas.net |
| On diagramming tools | #10 of 46 | #14 of 46 |
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.
Software Ideas Modeler: what it does well
- Supports more than 110 diagram types.
- Edits to shared model elements appear across diagrams.
- Can generate, parse, and reverse engineer source code.
- ER diagrams can produce SQL creation and change scripts.
- Works offline apart from specified online-dependent tasks.
What to know first
- Real-time sharing requires Software Ideas Server.
- AI support is listed for Ultimate edition.
- No security certification or compliance standard is stated.
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