13 Best FREE Data Modeling Tools (2025)
Data modeling is a method of creating a data model for the information to be stored in a database. It conceptually represents data objects, the associations between different data objects, and the rules.
Data design tools help you create a database structure from diagrams, making it easier to form a perfect data structure as per your needs. 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. Hence, I reviewed several data modeling software for over a week and handpicked a list of Top Data Modeling Tools with popular features and the latest download links. The list contains open-source(free) and commercial(paid) software. Read more…
Miro is designed for business analysts, data architects, database designers, and software teams looking for a flexible and collaborative solution for database modeling. It offering a drag-and-drop diagramming tool that simplifies database design.
Best Data Modelling Tools & Software
Name | Platform | Free Trial | Link |
---|---|---|---|
👍 Miro | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS | Lifetime Free Basic Plan | Learn more |
DbSchema | Windows, Mac, and Linux | 15-Days Free Trial | Learn more |
Erwin | Windows | 30-Days Free Trial | Learn more |
Archi | Windows, Mac, and Linux | 7-Days Free Trial | Learn more |
SqlDBM | Windows | 14-Days Free Trial | Learn more |
1) Miro
Miro is designed for business analysts, data architects, database designers, and software teams looking for a flexible and collaborative solution for database modeling. Its cloud-based nature and intuitive interface make it a powerful tool for individuals and teams, providing real-time collaboration and infinite design possibilities.
Founded in 2011, Miro has evolved into a leading visual collaboration platform, offering 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.
Integration: Jira, Asana, Slack, etc.
Drag-and-drop builder: Yes
Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
Free Trial: Lifetime Free Basic Plan
Features:
- Real-Time Team Collaboration: I found Miro to be exceptional for simultaneous collaboration, allowing multiple users to design and refine database models in real-time.
- Presentation Mode: I could effortlessly present database models to stakeholders with polished visuals and guided navigation.
- Infinite Canvas: Unlike traditional tools with fixed workspaces, Miro’s infinite canvas lets me design complex database structures without running out of space.
- Seamless Integration with Workflows: It connects with Jira, Asana, Google Drive, and Slack, making it easier to incorporate database design into existing workflows.
- Security & Access Control: With encryption and permission settings, Miro ensures data protection, preventing unauthorized modifications.
- Version Control & History Tracking: I was able to track all changes in my database models, ensuring that every modification is logged and reversible.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: Plans start at $8 per month per member billed annually.
- Free Trial: A lifetime-free basic plan is available.
Lifetime Free Basic Plan
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, offering various import and export options. I could benefit from features like HTML5 documentation, relational data explorer, and schema synchronization, which leveraged drag-and-drop builder and reverse engineering to optimize database management.
Integration: MongoDB, SQLite, Snowflake, SQL Server, Redis, and IBM Db2
Drag-and-drop builder: Yes
Supported Platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux
Free Trial: 15-Days Free Trial
Features:
- Collaborative Design: It helped me design schema in the team and deploy it on multiple databases. You can also connect it to any database and reverse engineer the schema with the help of JDBC drivers.
- Logical and physical design: I could create identifying, non-identifying, one-to-one, and many-to-many relations. It also lets you use convertors 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.
- Schema Versioning: It lets you compare different versions of the schema to generate migration scripts.
- Extension Support: DbSchema provides file extensions like .jar.
- Database Compatibility: I found out that it supports databases like SQL, NoSQL, and Cloud.
- Version Control Integration: You can share your model via GIT.
- Customer Support: It provides customer support via Contact Form and Email.
- Platform Support: I was mighty impressed with the multi-platform support, which included Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: Contact sales for a customized quote tailored to your organization’s needs.
- Free Trial: Offers a 14-day free trial
14-Days Free Trial
3) Erwin Data Modeler
During the period of 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.
Supported format: XML
Drag-and-drop builder: Yes
Supported Platforms: Windows
Free Trial: 30-Days Free Trial
Features:
- Automated data model: Erwin Data Modeler can auto-generate data models and database designs that help reduce errors and increase the data modeling speed. It also has an easy-to-use graphical environment.
- Universal Data Modeling: It allows you to model any data from anywhere. I could view structured and unstructured data from any location in a single interface.
- Data Quality Assurance: The tool uses enterprise data standards to drive data quality. It also helps improve data intelligence and decision-making across the company by allowing stakeholders to understand and rely on relevant data.
- Database Synchronization: It automatically compares the model and database.
- Format Support: Erwin Data Modeler supports multiple file formats like XML.
- File Extension: It provides file extensions like .eax, .eri, .erwin, .erwin_tmpl, and erx.
- Model Sharing: I could easily share my model via email.
- Customer Support: It provides customer support via Phone, Contact Form, and Email.
- Platform Compatibility: I could work with it on a Windows PC.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: Erwin Data Modeler is available at a cost. Request a quote from sales.
- Free Trial: A 30-day free trial is offered for evaluation purposes.
Download Link: https://erwin.com/products/erwin-data-modeler/
4) Archi
As I evaluated Archi, I noticed it is a cost-effective solution for enterprise architects and modelers. It supports cross-domain architectural analysis, description, and visualization. Facilitates in-depth model creation and collaboration with diverse export formats (CSV, PDF, DOC, PPT).
Archi enables the swift and intuitive creation of all ArchiMate elements and views. This tool allowed me to dynamically change ArchiMate viewpoints, offering flexibility in modeling. The Hints View provides element information instantly. I found out that Archi is also equipped with a radial-tree graphic display showing relationships between model elements.
Features:
- ArchiMate 3.2: With the help of ArchiMate 3.2, I could create ArchiMate elements and relations easily 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 my diagram with my own color scheme.
- Views and Viewpoints: You can easily create an ArchiMate view and set its viewpoint to flatter the target audience and stakeholders. I could also add concepts related to the viewpoint.
- Workspace Customization: I was able to create and adjust my canvas seamlessly with this tool.
- Idea Development: This data modeling tool allows you to brainstorm your ideas.
- Format Compatibility: It supports multiple file formats like XML.
- File Handling: I received file extensions like .zip.
- Database Integration: It supports databases like SQL.
- Collaboration Efficiency: You can share your model via links.
- User Interface: I liked using its Drag-and-drop builder and Version History.
- Customer Support: It provides customer support via Email.
- Platform Flexibility: It supports Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: Contact sales for a personalized quote tailored to your needs.
- Free Trial: Offers a 7-day free trial.
Download Link: https://www.archimatetool.com/
5) SqlDBM
In the course of my review, I found SqlDBM to be a reliable tool for database design on any browser. It does not require any other database engine, modeling tools, or apps. I could export to PDF and JSON for convenient model collaboration with this tool.
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.
Features:
- Data Modelling: It offers reverse and forward engineering, modeling like conceptual, physical, and logical, errors and warnings, and DB conversion. I also received features like extended object support, auto-suggested relationships, and more.
- Version Control: You can create unlimited projects and revisions, compare the revisions easily, alter script generations, receive Git integrations, etc.
- Other features: Its other features include lineage, governance, Snow Flake Schema monitoring, reliable security measures like Okta, Azure, custom NDA and MSA, and more
- Database Scalability: I could easily manage large and small databases and data models.
- Format Compatibility: It supports multiple file formats like PNG and XLSX.
- Sharing Capability: I could share my model via email.
- Customer Support Access: It provides customer support via chat and email.
- Platform Support: I could use it on Windows.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: SQL DBM offers intuitive database design and management starting at $25/month. Save 20% with annual billing.
- Free Trial: Offers a 14-day free trial.
Download Link: https://sqldbm.com/Home/
6) Sparx Systems Enterprise Architect
Sparx system is a diagram design tool for modeling, documenting, building, and maintaining object-oriented features. 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.
It integrates with platforms like Jazz, Jira, and Autodesk, ensuring your design and management processes are efficient. Benefits include a drag-and-drop builder, reverse engineering, and comprehensive documentation, making it a great option for detailed project oversight and execution analysis.
Features:
- Manage complex data: I received diagrams for modeling concepts, reusable model patterns, baseline and version management, domain-specific profiles, and role-based security.
- Flexibility: It is based on open standards such as UML, SysML, and BPMN. I could easily track tasks, test and debug, and simulate behavior and state models.
- Model, Manage, and Trace: It allowed me to define an organized level-wise requirements model. You can trace the execution of system requirements on model elements, search, and report on requirements, and analyze the impacts of changes made to the requirements.
- Project Management: It helps you with effective project management.
- Model Repository Performance: This tool provides a high-performance model repository.
- Traceability: It offers end-to-end traceability.
- Format Compatibility: This tool supports multiple file formats like PDF and HTML.
- Model Sharing: You can share your model via a link.
- Customer Support: It provides customer support via Email, Contact Form, and Phone.
- Platform Support: I could use it on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: Sparx Systems Enterprise Architect, starting at $229/month.
- Free Trial: Offers a 30-day free trial
Download Link: https://sparxsystems.com/
7) PgModeler
I checked PgModeler, an open-source tool for creating and editing database models with an intuitive interface. 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 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.
Features:
- Dynamic Code Generation: I was required to design just once and could export it to multiple versions. This dynamic code generation helps it export the design models to at least 10 to 15 versions of PostgreSQL.
- Auto-generate Columns and Constraints: It offers a column propagation mechanism that can auto-create columns and constraints when user-links tables with existing related objects.
- Open Source: You can modify and redistribute the source code for free. It has a public repository that offers developers complete access to the source code.
- Recovery Capability: I could easily restore previous work in case of system failures or errors.
- Integration and Sync: You can synchronize models and databases with SQL script functionalities.
- Other features: It can manage existing databases and supports geospatial data types. I also discovered that it includes an object finder, plugin development interface, etc.
- Format Compatibility: It supports multiple file formats, including PNG and SVG.
- Extension Support: I received extensions like PostGIS 2. x and .dbm.
- Database Compatibility: It supports databases like SQL Server and PostgreSQL.
- Sharing Features: You can share models via link and email.
- Customer Support: It offers customer support through a contact form.
- Platform Support: Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: Plans start at $49.90 a month.
- Free Trial: Offers a 14-day free trial.
Download Link: https://pgmodeler.io/
8) DeZign for Databases
I reviewed the DeZign tool, which allows you to visualize your data structures to create a new database and understand your existing database. It is great for its multiple display modes and industry-standard design notations. I found it very helpful as it accommodates various file formats like HTML and MS Word.
DeZign for Databases is a robust data modeling tool perfect for developers. It allowed me to visually create Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERD) and offered multiple import/export options, including CSV, PNG, and SQL. The tool supports databases like Oracle and MySQL and provides drag-and-drop builder, reverse engineering, and version history features.
Features:
- Diagramming: It uses ERD (Entity Relationship Diagrams) to help graphically design databases. I could visually create designs using relationships, entities, text blocks, group boxes, and subcategories.
- Database model synchronization: You get bidirectional compare and synchronization capability for models to databases, models to scripts—vice versa, and models to models.
- Model maintenance: DeZign leverages your modeling power with subdiagrams, it displays the model in an organized view and lets you label the objects in your project into meaningful groups.
- Navigation Convenience: I could navigate a large diagram using the Pan and Zoom window.
- Versatility in Modeling: It supports a range of data modeling techniques.
- File Compatibility: This tool provides file extensions like .def and .dez.
- Model Sharing: You can Share your model via links.
- Customer Support: It provides customer support via Email and Phone.
- Platform Compatibility: You can use it on Windows OS.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: DeZign for Databases starts at $20.20/month, with a 50% discount on yearly payments.
- Free Trial: 14-day free trial is available for new users.
Download Link: https://www.datanamic.com/dezign/
9) GenMyModel
I tested GenMyModel, which supports ArchiMate and BPMN. During my analysis, I noticed its centralized repository model allows easy and simultaneous model collaboration. I particularly liked that it is great for collaborative model creation and sharing.
GenMyModel combines the power of desktop modeling tools with a web solution, allowing effortless documentation and code-free customization. It supports multiple formats, including PDF, PNG, JPEG, SVG, UML, and XMI, ensuring your presentations to stakeholders are versatile and comprehensive. I also liked how its knowledge sharing is streamlined with versioning and access right management.
Features:
- Diagrams: This tool offers UML, class, sequence, BPMN, flowchart, database, EMF, activity, collaboration, etc., diagrams.
- File Support: It provides file extensions like dir.
- Sharing Capabilities: You can share your model via the link.
- Usability Features: I received Drag-and-drop builder and Version History.
- Customer Support: It provides customer support via Ticket.
- Platform Compatibility: I could use it on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: Plans start at $10 a month
- Free Trial: Offers a 30-day free trial
Download Link: https://www.genmymodel.com/
10) 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 like to recommend Oracle SQL Developer Data Modeler if you want free data modeling tools and collaborative development across logical, relational, physical, and multi-dimensional 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:
- File Format Support: I could use file extensions like .xprj, .doc, and .xls for project compatibility.
- Database Compatibility: It was easy for me to integrate it with SQL Server and DB2 databases.
- Sharing Options: You can share your model via the link.
- Customer Support: It offers diverse support options, including Email, Chat, Phone, and Contact Forms.
- Platform Compatibility: I found it compatible with both Windows and Linux platforms.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: Contact sales for a personalized quote tailored to your needs.
- Free Trial: Offers a 30-day free trial
Download Link: https://www.oracle.com/in/database/technologies/appdev/datamodeler.html
11) DTM Data Modeler
DTM Data Modeler is a data management software program designed for database developers that supports forward as well as reverse engineering. This tool helped me work with logical and physical data models.
DTM Data Modeler, established in 1998, allows you to swiftly create and manage database schemas with a drag-and-drop builder and supports DB2 and Microsoft SQL Server. I could use multiple import/export formats and share via HTTP or FTP. Features like reverse engineering, forward engineering, and version history make it a versatile tool.
Features:
- Modeling Notation: It supports standard entity-relationship (ER) modeling notation. You also get new customization features for reverse and forward engineering processes.
- Database Connectivity: This tool supports interfaces with IDAPI, ODBC, Oracle, and OLE DB. It also provides database flexibility. Hence, I could work with SQL, Oracle, or DB2 databases.
- Database Object Editing: It includes editors for procedures, triggers, and indexes.
- File Format Support: I found it compatible with TXT, CSV, and RTF file formats.
- Customer Support: It offers support via Email and contact forms.
- Platform Compatibility: Exclusively available for Windows operating systems.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: Plans start at $75 a year, with a 7-day free trial available for evaluation.
Download Link: http://www.sqledit.com/dm/index.html
12) DbDesigner.net
DbDesigner.net is an online Database Schema Design and Modeling Tool. That allowed me to create a database without wiring a single SQL code. Its Reverse and Forward engineering, Autocomplete Data Type, and Live Validation have added benefits enhancing productivity and efficiency.
DbDesigner.net, founded in 2006, is a robust tool that allows you to seamlessly design and manage databases. I could integrate it with MySQL, MSSql, PostgreSQL, Oracle, and SQLite. With features like a drag-and-drop builder and multiple import/export options, including CSV and JSON, it’s a great option for database professionals.
Features:
- Performance Efficiency: It is a reliable and fast database design software. I received a user-friendly UI for modeling, and it doesn’t slow down even with a large size of database.
- Tools for DB design: DbDesigner provides features like keyboard shortcuts, mini maps for instant navigation, immediate Save for history, undo and redo, copy and paste, table cloning, auto-layout, and more.
- Collaboration Feature: It allows quick project sharing within your organization.
- File Support: You can data in multiple file formats like CSV and XML.
- File Type: It offers specific file extensions like .mdd.
- Customer Support: Provides support via Email, Phone, and Contact Form.
- Platform Compatibility: Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms.
Pros
Cons
Pricing Plans:
- Pricing: The plan starts at $7 a month.
- Free Trial: Offers a 14-day free trial
Download Link: https://www.dbdesigner.net/
Which factors should you consider while selecting the Database Modeling Tool?
You should consider the following factors while selecting a database modeling tool:
- User Interface and Navigation: While conducting this research, I chose database modeling tools with an intuitive interface to enhance accessibility and productivity in managing data structures.
- Scalability: You must ensure that the tool can handle growing data volumes and complexity, supporting your organizational expansion.
- Functionalities Offered: I usually look for comprehensive features that support various database types and engineering capabilities for flexible database management.
- Visualization and Reporting Features: Select a tool that provides clear visualizations and customizable reports to help interpret complex data relationships.
- Integration with Other Tools: The tool should integrate smoothly with existing development environments and data management systems to maintain workflow continuity.
- Pricing: I suggest you consider a tool that fits your budget and offers the necessary features, whether through a subscription or a license.
- Support: Always choose a tool with robust support options, including tutorials and technical assistance, to help resolve any issues efficiently.
- Customizations: Opt for a tool that allows modifications and enhancements to meet specific business requirements.
- Collaboration Features: Prioritize tools with features that facilitate team collaboration, like simultaneous editing and version control, to ensure effective teamwork.
What is Data Modeling?
Data Modelling is a process of creating data models for the data to be stored in a database. It is a conceptual representation of Data objects, associations between different data objects, and the rules. Data modeling helps visualize data and enforces business rules, regulatory compliances, and government policies on the data. Data Modeling ensures consistency in naming conventions, default values, semantics, and security while ensuring the quality of the data.
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.
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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: It offers ready-to-use Entity-Relationship Diagram (ERD) templates, helping users quickly visualize databases without starting from scratch.
- DbSchema: This tool’s strength lies in its interactive diagrams and schema synchronization.
Miro is designed for business analysts, data architects, database designers, and software teams looking for a flexible and collaborative solution for database modeling. It offering a drag-and-drop diagramming tool that simplifies database design.