01/ draw.io (diagrams.net)
Best for: All kinds of diagrams, online or offline.
Can import Visio (.vsdx) files.
Runs on: Web, Windows, macOS, Linux
Visit draw.io (diagrams.net)Office & Productivity · Diagrams and flowcharts
Free alternatives to Microsoft Visio
Microsoft Visio by Microsoft: Flowcharts, org charts, network and floor-plan diagrams. Pricing: subscription. Here are 2 free options that cover the same job.
| Alternative | Type | Platforms | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
draw.io (diagrams.net)Can import Visio (.vsdx) files. | Open source | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux | All kinds of diagrams, online or offline | Get it |
LibreOffice DrawOpens Visio files through import filters reverse-engineered by the Document Liberation Project. | Compatible | Windows, macOS, Linux | Opening and editing existing Visio files | Get it |
 Microsoft VisioThe paid original | Subscription | – | Diagrams and flowcharts | Visit |
The alternatives in detail
Open source
02/ LibreOffice Draw
Best for: Opening and editing existing Visio files.
Opens Visio files through import filters reverse-engineered by the Document Liberation Project.
Runs on: Windows, macOS, Linux
Visit LibreOffice DrawAbout “Compatible” tools: An independent, legal re-implementation that opens the same files or runs the same software. Not a cracked copy.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a free alternative to Microsoft Visio?
Yes. draw.io (diagrams.net) is a strong free option for all kinds of diagrams, online or offline. Other choices include LibreOffice Draw.
Which Microsoft Visio alternative is open source?
draw.io (diagrams.net), LibreOffice Draw are open source.
Are compatible (reverse-engineered) alternatives legal?
Yes. Tools marked Compatible are independent re-implementations built to open the same files or run the same software. They do not contain the original program's code. They are not cracked or pirated copies, which we never recommend.