8 Best FREE Data Modeling Tools (2025)

Data modeling is the backbone of any successful data initiative. The right tools can significantly streamline this process. Best free data modeling tools empower organizations to design, visualize, and optimize databases without incurring costs. As a professional who has spent decades evaluating SaaS tools, I understand how critical it is to streamline data architecture for agility and performance. These solutions help teams build efficient systems that reduce errors and enhance scalability. However, you must select these tools carefully, since choosing just any data modelling tool can lead to loss of productivity, security risks, frequent errors, poor quality data and more.

Selecting the right free data modeling software is critical for efficiency, accuracy, and scalability. After carefully testing over 40 open-source data modeling tools for more than 100 hours, I have compiled a transparent breakdown of the best options. My in-depth experience has shown that while some free tools offer exclusive capabilities, others may have hidden limitations. This guide provides an honest, well-researched, and up-to-date recommendation to help you find a safe and professional tool that aligns with your workflow. Read more…

Free & Open Source Best Data Modelling Tools & Database Software

Name	Database Compatibility	Platform	Free Trial	Link
👍 Miro	Conceptual/Visual Modeling	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Lifetime Free Basic Plan	Learn more
DbSchema	SQL, NoSQL, Cloud DBs	Windows, Mac, and Linux	15-Days Free Trial	Learn more
Erwin	Hive, Oracle, DB2, SQL Server	Windows	30-Days Free Trial	Learn more
Archi	ArchiMate, SQL DBs	Windows, Mac, and Linux	Free	Learn more
Adobe Express	MySQL, PostgreSQL, or Microsoft SQL Server	Windows, Android and iOS	Lifetime Free Basic Plan	Learn more

1) Miro

Miro is an ultimate tool for data modeling, which I particularly liked for its collaborative features. As I carried out my evaluation, I found that Miro allows you to create and share diagrams effortlessly, making it a superior choice for team projects. It is crucial to consider Miro when aiming to enhance data visualization and collaboration within your organization. Typically, data scientists use Miro to create interactive diagrams that help understand complex data relationships.

Founded in 2011, Miro has evolved into a leading visual collaboration platform. It offers a drag-and-drop diagramming tool that simplifies database design. Unlike traditional desktop applications, Miro runs in the browser, eliminating installation hassles and enabling seamless cross-device access.

Features:

• Database Diagramming: Miro offers pre-built database diagram templates to help users quickly structure their relational databases. These templates provide a strong starting point, eliminating the need to start from scratch. 
• Real-Time Collaboration: Teams can work on the same data model simultaneously, making Miro ideal for remote collaboration. Adding comments, sticky notes, or mentions is super easy with this free data modeling software tool. Communications between team members are usually smooth, allowing for instant feedback.
• Entity-Relationship Diagrams (ERDs): Miro supports the creation of ERDs, making it easier to visualize table relationships. I once used this feature to clarify a complex Many-to-Many relationship for a client’s project. The ability to color-code entities helped highlight primary keys and foreign keys effectively.
• Version History & Change Tracking: Changes are saved automatically, and users can view previous versions of their diagrams. This is particularly useful for tracking modifications in large-scale database projects. If you’re working in a team, name each version logically to avoid confusion.
• AI-Powered Auto-Layout: Miro’s AI can automatically arrange database entities to improve readability and reduce clutter. From my personal experience, if your ERD gets too messy, use the auto-layout feature to instantly tidy up connections and improve visualization.
• Integrations with Other Tools: Miro integrates with databases, cloud services, and project management tools like Jira, Confluence, and Notion. I found the Google Drive integration particularly helpful when exporting ERD diagrams as PDF files for client presentations.

👉 How to Get Miro for Free?

• Visit Miro official website and navigate to the main homepage.
• Click on the Sign Up Free button to sign up using your email ID.
• Miro will send a “Sign In” link to the email you provided. Click on it to enjoy a lifetime free basic plan.

Visit Miro >>

Lifetime Free Basic Plan

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2) DbSchema

I reviewed DbSchema and found it to be a visual database designer and manager for any SQL, NoSQL, or Cloud database. It allows you to design and interact with the database schema visually, work in a team, and deploy it on multiple databases. Users can generate clear HTML5 diagrams, explore data interactively, and construct efficient queries for improved decision-making.

DbSchema is a versatile tool that allows you to seamlessly work with databases like MongoDB, SQLite, and SQL Server through interactive diagrams and a visual query builder. It supports multiple file formats, including PDF, CSV, and XLSX, and offers various import and export options. I could benefit from features like HTML5 documentation, relational data explorer, and schema synchronization, which leveraged a drag-and-drop builder and reverse engineering to optimize database management.

Features:

• Visual Query Builder: The query builder simplifies complex SQL queries using a visual interface. If you’re struggling with multi-table joins, use the Join Optimizer to automatically suggest the best relationships between tables.
• Logical and physical design: I could create identifying, non-identifying, one-to-one, and many-to-many relations. It also lets you use converters to map the data types, default values, and more. Additionally, I could add various arrows and shapes to the layout and share it easily with my team. 
• SQL & NoSQL Support: Unlike many tools that focus only on relational databases, DbSchema supports MongoDB, Cassandra, PostgreSQL, and more. Its graphical representation for NoSQL databases made it easier for me to structure documents and relationships efficiently.
• Visual Database Design: DbSchema enables interactive database schema design with drag-and-drop functionality. It allows users to create and modify diagrams effortlessly. The changes can be applied to live databases or stored as model files, making it ideal for collaborative development.
• Schema Synchronization: The tool provides schema comparison and synchronization, allowing users to detect differences between multiple database instances and apply updates selectively. I used this feature to sync staging and production environments, avoiding accidental schema overwrites.

👉 How to Get DbSchema for Free?

• Visit the official DbSchema website and navigate to the main homepage.
• Click on the Download button to download the free DbSchema Community Edition.

Visit DbSchema >>

14-Days Free Trial

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3) Erwin Data Modeler

During my assessment, I checked Erwin and found it to be a highly functional data modeling tool for creating logical, physical, and conceptual data models. It is ideal for building real-world databases from physical models. This tool supports data transfer and agile methodologies with diverse import/export functionalities.

Erwin Data Modeler efficiently synchronizes forward and reverse engineering of data definition code, supports databases like Hive and Oracle, and allows you to extract accurate modeling data from CRM and ERP. With features like drag-and-drop builder and centralized model management, it ensures your business and technical users collaborate effectively.

Features:

• Forward and Reverse Engineering: Erwin allows users to generate database schema scripts directly from models (forward engineering) or create models from existing databases (reverse engineering). Manually recreating schemas made it easy for me to migrate through the legacy databases seamlessly. 
• Multi-Model Support: Unlike many free tools, Erwin supports different modeling methodologies, including relational, dimensional, and NoSQL data models. This flexibility makes it suitable for diverse database environments, from traditional relational databases to modern cloud-based data warehouses.
• Version Control and Change Management: One unique feature is its built-in version control, which keeps track of model changes over time. This helps teams collaborate without accidentally overriding each other’s work. However, I recommend always checking version history before making any major modifications to avoid conflicts in team-based projects.
• Metadata Management and Analysis: The tool provides strong metadata management, enabling users to analyze and reuse data assets efficiently. If you are part of a large industry, this feature will significantly help standardize data governance.
• Automated Model Documentation: Erwin generates detailed reports and documentation for database models, which is crucial for compliance and auditing. I once used this feature to create an automated data dictionary for a project, saving hours of manual documentation effort.

👉 How to Get Erwin Data Modeler for Free?

• Visit the official Erwin Data Modeler website.
• Scroll down and click on the Start Free Trial button to navigate to the Sign Up page.
• Enter your email id and click on “Request Trial” to access Erwin Data Modeler for free

Download Link: https://www.erwin.com/products/erwin-data-modeler/

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4) Archi

Archi stands out as a powerful, open-source data modeling solution that simplifies complex enterprise architecture modeling for all levels of professionals. It supports the latest ArchiMate 3.2 standard and allows users to visualize, analyze, and refine architectural designs with ease. Designed with intuitive features like Sketch View, Hints View, and Visualiser, Archi makes it easier to understand relationships and dependencies across business layers.

Whether you are just starting with ArchiMate or are a seasoned professional looking for a cross-platform tool that delivers efficiency without compromising capability, Archi gives you the option to manage critical data modeling tasks confidently. With its seamless performance across Windows, macOS, and Linux, I would consider Archi as an ideal pick in this curated list of top free modeling solutions.

Features:

• ArchiMate 3.2: ArchiMate 3.2 helped me easily create ArchiMate elements and relations in ArchiMate views. It comes with a magic connector that directs you to the right connections between ArchiMate concepts. Additionally, I could refine my model with user-defined properties and paint the diagram with my color scheme. 
• Custom Property Support: You can assign custom properties to elements and relationships, enabling tailored metadata tracking. I used this feature to track cost estimates and compliance indicators for each system component, offering deeper analytical insights.
• Model Repository Collaboration: Archi supports collaborative modeling via the Archi Collaboration Plugin. You can connect with Git-based repositories for version control and team contributions. Guru99 suggests using Git branching strategies to manage modeling changes across teams without conflicts.
• Cross-View Element Management: The tool lets you reuse elements across different views without duplication. This feature has been invaluable for streamlining my workflow. When I applied it to a complex, multi-layered digital transformation project, it not only reduced redundancy but also ensured a high level of consistency across all my architecture diagrams. It made a huge difference in the clarity and effectiveness of my project’s visual representation.
• Scripting with JavaScript (JArchi): With JArchi scripting support, you can automate tasks and customize model operations. I created scripts to bulk-update properties and generate custom reports, which saved hours of manual work. Guru99 recommends exploring the JArchi GitHub repo for reusable community scripts.

👉 How to Get Archi for Free?

• Visit the official Archi website.
• Click on the Download button to download Archi for free.

Download Link: https://www.archimatetool.com/

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5) SqlDBM

SqlDBM is a powerful tool that I particularly appreciate for its intuitive interface and comprehensive features. It allows you to create and manage database models effortlessly, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned professionals. In my experience, SqlDBM is one of the top choices for data modeling due to its high-quality design and customization options. SqlDBM allows you to easily create a detailed ERD and supports databases like SQL Server, MySQL, and others. 

It provides a Drag-and-drop builder and reverse Engineering and integrates seamlessly with platforms like GitHub and Snowflake. SqlDBM helps you enhance your database structure by providing a clear visual representation of your data models. For example, data architects often prefer using SqlDBM to streamline their database design process, ensuring consistency and efficiency across projects.

Features:

• Web-Based Platform: SqlDBM is entirely browser-based, eliminating the need for local installation. You can work on data models anytime, anywhere, on any device. It’s ideal for remote teams and cloud-first workflows. This flexibility makes it one of the most accessible free modeling tools today.
• Visual Diagram Interface: The drag-and-drop interface allows intuitive entity arrangement. Relationships between tables are clearly displayed, improving clarity and reducing logical design errors. Guru99 recommends color-coding logical groupings for easier visual parsing, especially on large projects.
• Version Control & Change Tracking: Version history in SqlDBM ensures you never lose work or changes. It keeps track of all schema versions with timestamped backups. You can revert or compare versions effortlessly. I suggest naming versions clearly for collaboration – it avoids merge errors in multi-user projects.
• Auto Layout Functionality: With a single click, SqlDBM can arrange your ER diagrams into a clean layout. It improves readability without the need for manual alignment. There is also an option that lets you lock custom positions if you prefer manual structuring, which is great for presentations.
• Submodels & Layers: You can create submodels to segment larger ERDs into manageable sections. It improves navigation and clarity during complex modeling projects. While using this feature, one thing I noticed was that exporting submodels helped streamline stakeholder-specific reports.

👉 How to Get SqlDBM for Free?

• Visit the official SqlDBM website.
• Click on the Try modeling button to start using SqlDBM for free.

Download Link: https://sqldbm.com/Home/

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6) Sparx Systems Enterprise Architect

Sparx Systems Enterprise Architect made a solid impression on me during my review. I particularly appreciate how it offers a comprehensive modeling suite that helps you map out complex systems with clarity. I would rate it as a great option for professionals aiming to organize their data architecture in a meaningful and visual way. The tool made it easier to navigate different modeling frameworks, which is essential for delivering efficient results.

It also supports CSV and XML import/export options for versatile data handling. Sparks Systems allowed me to easily manage data with support for databases, including SQLite and Oracle. Data analysts in growing startups often depend on Enterprise Architect’s rich repository and team-sharing capabilities to maintain modeling consistency across fast-moving projects.

Features:

• UML and BPMN Integration: This tool integrates UML, BPMN, and SysML within the same environment. It enables seamless transition from business models to data structures. I found this especially helpful when aligning process logic with database entities. You can maintain consistency across different modeling layers.
• Forward Engineering to SQL Scripts: The tool allows you to generate SQL scripts from your data models. It eliminates redundant manual coding, accelerates implementation, and ensures database consistency. I suggest tweaking the code generation templates to match your organization’s SQL standards for cleaner outputs.
• Model Validation and Integrity Checks: You can run validations to check for broken links, incomplete relationships, or incorrect data types. This feature helps maintain high model quality. Guru99 recommends running these checks before review cycles to catch common data modeling errors early.
• Schema Comparison and Version Control: Sparx allows for the comparison of different versions of schema diagrams. This will enable you to identify structural differences and manage changes over time. Integrated version control support ensures traceability. I have tested this and found it particularly useful when working with cross-functional teams on evolving data projects.
• Impact Analysis and Traceability: It enables full traceability from requirements to data structures. You can assess the downstream impact of any change in your model. This helps reduce project risks and improves documentation accuracy. I’ve used this extensively during change management audits.
• Simulation and Model Execution: A lesser-known gem—Enterprise Architect supports simulation of models. You can execute activity diagrams or data flows to validate logic paths. I created simulations to test data transformation logic before database deployment, which saved hours of downstream debugging.

👉 How to Get Sparx Systems Enterprise Architect for Free?

• Visit the official Sparx Systems website.
• Click on the Download Now button to download Sparx Systems Enterprise Architect for Free.

Download Link: https://sparxsystems.com/

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7) PgModeler

PgModeler is an open-source data modeling tool that supports geospatial data types and a translatable user interface. It allows you to auto-generate columns and constraints, offering a drag-and-drop builder and forward/reverse engineering. I benefited from its model structure validation with automatic fixes, CLI automation, and versatile import/export options, including SQL, PNG, and CSV formats.

In the review process, I particularly liked the ability to create basic objects like a single column and define operators, functions, and language. Its source code access empowers customization and optimization for specific requirements.PgModeler runs smoothly on Linux, Windows, and macOS. I’ve personally used it on Ubuntu and macOS without a hitch. The cross-platform support ensures team-wide adoption without tech friction.

Features:

• PostgreSQL Native Support: Explicitly built for PostgreSQL, PgModeler fully supports its features, including extensions, rules, and advanced data types. This tight integration ensures compatibility with your PostgreSQL instances. I would say it’s one of the few open-source tools available today with such focused optimization.
• Entity Relationship (ER) Diagrams: You can build detailed ER diagrams with cardinality notations and relationship definitions. PgModeler effectively supports 1:1, 1:N, and N: M relationships. It’s excellent for visualizing foreign key relationships in larger models.
• Import/Export Model in XML: PgModeler supports XML-based import/export of models for interoperability and archival. You can share models easily with teams using version control systems. There is also an option that lets you compress exported files, which is great for managing large models.
• Command-Line Interface (CLI): The CLI feature lets you automate model generation, validation, and export. I used this in a CI/CD pipeline to auto-deploy schema updates — a game-changer for DevOps workflows. This is one of the standout capabilities often overlooked by beginners.
• Data Type Mapping and Extension Handling: The tool supports all PostgreSQL data types, including custom domains and array types. You can also model PostgreSQL extensions like PostGIS seamlessly. This is highly beneficial for spatial or scientific datasets.

👉 How to Get pgModeler for Free?

• Visit the official pgModeler website.
• Click on the Download button to download pgModeler for Free.

Download Link: https://pgmodeler.io/

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8) Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler

Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler software helped me increase productivity and simplified numerous data modeling tasks. Perfect for both traditional and cloud environments, it’s essential for those aiming for efficient data modeling.

I would recommend Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler if you want free data modeling tools and collaborative development across logical, relational, physical, and multidimensional models. It allowed me to create and edit various models using a drag-and-drop builder and ensured my work’s consistency through Forward and Reverse Engineering, as well as Version history. The tool supports multiple file formats like PNG, PDF, SVG, and more and offers extensive import and export options.

Features:

• Built-in Version Control: It supports version control integration with Git and Subversion, allowing teams to track model changes over time. Guru99 recommends enabling version control before making major schema modifications to maintain a history of changes and rollback if needed..
• Advanced Glossary Management: It comes with a built-in glossary tool that allows you to maintain consistent naming conventions. This feature helped me enforce standard table and column naming across multiple projects, improving readability.
• Rich Reporting Options: I could generate detailed reports in various formats, including Excel, HTML, and PDF. These reports are helpful enough since they provided metadata insights, table relationships, and business rules.
• Reverse Engineering Capabilities: Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler allows users to reverse engineer existing databases into visual models. I used this feature to extract a complex schema from an old Oracle database, making it easier to analyze relationships and dependencies before making updates.
• Design Rules Validation: It includes a built-in validation engine that checks for errors and inconsistencies in your design. When I worked on a complex schema, it flagged duplicate indexes and inconsistent foreign keys, helping me avoid critical issues before deployment..

👉 How to Get Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler for Free?

• Visit the official Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler website.
• Click on the Download button to download Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler for Free.

Download Link: https://www.oracle.com/in/database/technologies/appdev/datamodeler.html

What are Data Modeling Tools?

Data modeling tools are software applications that help you create database structures from diagrams, and thereby, it becomes easier to form a perfect data structure as per your needs. These database modeling tools allow users to create business-specific infographics, diagrams, data visualizations, and flowcharts. In order to test these systems effectively, it’s often necessary to generate test data, for which you might consider using one of these test data generation tools.

How Did We Choose the Best Database Modeling Tools?

Database modeling tools must simplify design, enhance performance, and support seamless collaboration. At Guru99, our dedication to credibility is unwavering. Our editorial focus is on obtaining accurate, relevant, and objective information. We carefully analyzed features, usability, and reliability to ensure top selections. The goal was to shortlist tools that optimize workflows and support scalability for various use cases.

• Functionality and Features: We chose based on advanced diagramming, automated modeling, and real-time collaboration capabilities.
• Ease of Use: Our team made sure to shortlist tools with intuitive interfaces and minimal learning curves for users.
• Integration Support: The experts in our team selected tools based on compatibility with SQL and NoSQL databases.
• Performance and Efficiency: We ensured our top picks deliver optimized performance with fast processing and smooth workflows.
• Scalability and Flexibility: Our team prioritized adaptable tools that grow with business needs and complex data models.
• Security and Reliability: We made sure to include tools with strong encryption, access controls, and dependable uptime.

Verdict

As per my research all the above tools performed as per my requirement. However, I would like to recommend the following three tools as they stood out with their features, user-friendly UI, and were overall much more reliable:

• Miro: This remarkable tool stands out for its user-friendly interface and excellent collaboration features, making it an ideal choice for teams working on real-time data visualization and brainstorming.
• DbSchema: A robust and customizable tool that provides schema documentation, visual design, and interactive diagramming, making it a superior choice for both beginners and experienced database professionals.
• Erwin Data Modeler: Known for its comprehensive capabilities, this secure and powerful solution offers enterprise-grade features for data governance, enabling reliable and structured database modeling.

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