Side by side
MindSpark vs SimpleMind
Both stand on mind mapping tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APILinuxSelf-hosted+1
Choose MindSpark if you want a free mind-mapping app with research tools, Markdown synchronization, and repository-backed or self-hosted storage. Check the deployment requirements if you need collaboration features: they require the optional cloud worker, and GitHub Pages does not provide live collaboration.
Visit MindSpark
Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac+1
SimpleMind offers broad platform coverage and a substantial set of Pro mapping tools. Its no-account approach and per-platform licensing are important considerations when choosing how to store and use maps.
Visit SimpleMindThe facts
| MindSpark | SimpleMind | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Self-hosted, Web | Android, iPhone, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | See the plans |
| Plans published | 1 | 17 |
| Maker | Not published | SimpleMind |
| Website | github.com | simplemind.eu |
| On mind mapping tools | #13 of 72 | #9 of 72 |
MindSpark: what it does well
- Maps and Markdown outlines stay synchronized in both directions.
- Citation details can be filled from Crossref using a DOI.
- Imports GitMind and MindMeister files, among other formats.
- Exports include PNG, PDF, Word, and Mermaid.
- Repository storage supports GitHub, Gitea, Forgejo, and GitLab.
What to know first
- Real-time collaboration and shared links require the optional cloud worker.
- GitHub Pages sign-in does not provide OAuth or live collaboration.
- Self-hosting requires Node.js 22 or later.
SimpleMind: what it does well
- Runs on Android, iOS, macOS and Windows
- Free mobile edition available
- Includes many layouts and map tools
- Supports device or cloud storage
- No account required
What to know first
- Separate license required for each platform
- Real-time collaboration is not available
- Phone slideshow is excluded from Pro
- Support is available in English only
Alternatives to MindSpark Alternatives to SimpleMind The whole list