8 Best FREE Database Diagram Design Tools (2025)

Efficient database management begins with clear visualization. The best free database diagram design tools provide powerful yet intuitive ways to conceptualize, develop, and maintain databases effectively. With my extensive experience reviewing SaaS products, I understand the value these tools offer in ensuring accurate data consistency and streamlined development processes. Additionally, recent trends indicate growing adoption of collaborative cloud-based diagramming solutions, enhancing teamwork and productivity.

After dedicating over 80+ hours to research, I have thoroughly reviewed 30+ tools to bring you the ultimate list of the Best free database diagram design tools. My well-researched and professional guide evaluates both free and paid options, offering a comprehensive look at their features and pricing. Dive into the full article to discover exclusive and credible insights that will help you choose the ideal tool for your needs. Read more…

Best Free ER Diagram Tools (Database Design Tools)

Name	Ideal For	Features	Collaboration	Free Trial	Link
Miro	Teams needing visual planning	• 2500+ Miro and community-made templates. • 100+ apps and integrations.	✅	Lifetime Free Basic Plan	Learn More
EdrawMax	Comprehensive diagramming	• 20,000 free templates. • Use AI to generate and optimize diagrams.	✅	Lifetime Free Basic Plan	Learn More
Visme	Infographics & presentations	• Full Access to templates and assets. • 25+ chart and graph types.	✅	Lifetime Free Basic Plan	Learn More
DbSchema	SQL & NoSQL collaboration	• Deploy schema on multiple databases. • DbSchema supports the dark theme.	✅	Download for Free	Learn More
Figma	Interface design with optional ERD use	• Access templates for various diagram types. • Export diagrams in various formats.	✅	Lifetime Free Basic Plan	Learn More

1) Miro

Miro delivers a visually engaging way to organize data structures. I tested it to model a moderately complex database, and the process was seamless. Its drag-and-drop interface, pre-built shapes, and real-time collaboration made diagramming a smooth experience. I particularly liked how it promotes brainstorming with technical planning. For example, product managers benefit from this feature to align database logic with product flow. As per my review, it is a superior choice if you aim to simplify team collaboration while diagramming.

Features:

• Drag & Drop: Miro’s drag-and-drop functionality makes designing database diagrams extremely smooth, even for beginners. With a wide range of shape packs and full layout control, you can map out complex schemas easily. While using this feature one thing I noticed is that customizing connectors improves logic flow clarity immensely. This helps streamline even the messiest ERD projects.
• Real‑time Edit: Real-time editing in Miro allows multiple stakeholders to collaborate without waiting. You can watch edits as they happen, add sticky notes for reminders, and leave comments directly on elements. This drastically reduces feedback cycles. I recommend assigning color codes to each team member’s edits to track contributions effectively.
• Zoomable Canvas: The infinite, zoomable canvas is a powerful feature when working on large database projects. It allows you to work at both macro and micro levels seamlessly. I used this while mapping out a distributed healthcare data model, and the detailed zoom level helped refine node relationships clearly.
• AI Diagramming: Miro’s AI diagramming can turn simple prompts into database diagrams. Just input system components or relationships in text, and it maps them out. This is ideal when working from rough specs. I suggest refining your prompts with structure keywords to generate diagrams that require minimal edits later.
• ERD Templates: The extensive template library covers multiple industries like CRM, finance, and health tech. These templates accelerate diagram creation and maintain best-practice design patterns. I used a CRM schema template and modified it for a custom loyalty platform with ease. Templates are a great starting point if you’re unsure of structure.
• Visual Process Explanation: Miro’s intuitive drawing and labeling tools helped me explain the relationships between tables and processes to a non-technical product team. It reduced confusion and sped up decision-making. You will notice stakeholders engaging more when visuals are combined with brief text annotations. This is especially useful in presentations.

👉 How to Get Miro for Free?

• Go to the official Miro website using any browser you prefer.
• Click on the “Sign up free” button to start creating your always free Miro account.
• You will get unlimited members, 3 editable boards, and over 5,000 templates from Miro and its community.

Visit Miro >>

Lifetime Free Basic Plan

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2) EdrawMax

EdrawMax exceeded my expectations while reviewing tools for online visual database design. I was able to test its features in a real project, and it did not disappoint. It allowed me to build flowcharts, mind maps, and ERDs all from a single place. What I found particularly helpful was the level of customization. This may help those who need to frequently tweak visuals for presentations or reports. I suggest using this if you want an all-in-one tool that adapts to your creative and technical needs.

Features:

• Diagram Creation: I was able to create different types of diagrams, such as flowcharts, organizational charts, mind maps, and network diagrams, effortlessly. This helped me present complex data with more clarity. I suggest using the mind map layout for early-stage database planning to avoid redundant relationships.
• Extensive Symbol Libraries: Access exhaustive built‑in libraries containing entities, relationships, attributes, IDEF1X, Express‑G, and ORM symbols for comprehensive database modeling. Each library is neatly categorized. While using this feature one thing I noticed is that selecting the right ERD notation early on avoids model rework.
• Rich Templates Gallery: I could easily explore over 20,000 templates for diagrams, mind maps, and graphic design. This made EdrawMax one of the most versatile tools I’ve used. It saved me hours I would have spent starting from scratch.
• Data Import/Export Formats: Import from CSV or database and export diagrams to Visio (VSDX), Word, Excel, PDF, JPG, SVG, and HTML formats. The transition between formats was fast and reliable. I recommend testing your export in Visio before final approval, especially when formatting is critical.
• Automatic Alignment & Connectors: Tools automatically align shapes, adjust connectors, and maintain diagram clarity and consistency during edits. I tested this while modifying a 60+ node ER diagram. It significantly improved the overall readability and reduced manual clean-up work.

👉 How to Get EdrawMax for Free?

• Visit the official EdrawMax website using your preferred browser
• Select the “Try it Free” button to download the Windows software version
• Alternatively, choose “Try Online Free” and create a free account to begin building flowcharts and visuals that help simplify business decisions

Visit EdrawMax >>

Lifetime Free Basic Plan

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3) Visme

Visme is an amazing ER diagram tool. It allowed me to simplify the database design process with ease. The tool provides an impressive range of ready-made shapes and assets, which helped me create my designs quickly. I particularly liked how it made documenting my database design seamless, regardless of my experience level. I also discovered that sharing charts, graphs, and flowcharts can be done through links, QR codes, or social media platforms using Visme.

Features:

• Visual Content Tools: Visme offers extensive design capabilities tailored for presentations, infographics, and diagrams. You can blend database logic with compelling visuals for clearer documentation. I recommend using the “Infographic Blocks” to layer data insights into entity relationships—it makes technical content much more engaging.
• Pre-Designed Templates: You get a solid library of ERD templates that can speed up your project workflow. These templates work well across industries like eCommerce, education, and SaaS. While testing this feature, I found the templates flexible enough to adjust even for nested relationships in complex schemas.
• Custom Shapes & Icons: The tool includes a deep collection of icons and shapes suitable for database objects. You can drag and drop them easily to illustrate entities and attributes. I often used these when visualizing table metadata during architecture discussions.
• Relationship Mapping Tools: You can map one-to-many, many-to-many, and one-to-one relationships using precise connectors. This helps in identifying logical flow between tables. While using this feature one thing I noticed—the curved lines automatically adjust when you move objects, saving time during edits.
• Custom Branding: Visme allows seamless integration of your company’s identity into diagrams. You can add logos, brand colors, and approved typefaces. I’ve used this to present client-facing database maps that matched corporate design standards.
• Version History: Previous diagram versions are stored automatically and can be restored with one click. This is great for reverting changes after team reviews. The tool lets you rename each version manually, which I suggest doing for easier reference during collaboration.

👉 How to Get Visme for Free?

• Visit the official Visme website using any web browser
• Click on the Sign Up Free button to begin the process
• Create your free account and join over 36.5 million happy users

Visit Visme >>

Lifetime Free Basic Plan

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4) DbSchema

DbSchema became a go-to choice during my research for ER Database Design Tool options. I evaluated its feature set deeply and found its layout editor to be comprehensive and intuitive. I was able to create multiple layouts of the same schema, which is ideal for presenting complex structures to stakeholders. It helped me gain insights into data relationships without diving into raw database queries. In my opinion, its synchronization features between schema and database make it a top-rated solution for collaborative projects.

Features:

• Documentation & Visualization: I could access HTML5 documentation with interactive diagrams, a relational data explorer, and a visual query builder. These tools helped me document the entire schema in a user-friendly way. While using this feature one thing I noticed is that the interactive diagrams make onboarding much smoother for new team members.
• Data Management Tools: The schema synchronization feature, random data generator, and database reports are great for data management. I used the data generator to simulate test environments for our staging server. I suggest using the report generator regularly to spot inconsistencies and maintain documentation discipline.
• Team Collaboration: It helped me design schemas within a team and deploy them across multiple databases effortlessly. I used the version control support to track schema changes with my teammates. There is also an option that lets you merge changes from different team members without manual intervention, which saved us hours.
• SQL Autocompletion: The SQL editor offers autocompletion, which helped me write code more efficiently with fewer errors. I noticed a significant drop in syntax mistakes during development. This was particularly useful when switching between multiple SQL dialects.
• Query Building: The visual query builder helps you write SQL queries, apply filters, order data, and group it quickly. It also allowed me to access data more effectively. I recommend it to non-developers too—especially analysts who need data without writing complex SQL manually.

👉 How to Get DbSchema for Free?

• Visit the official website and navigate to the DbSchema page
• Click on the Download button to begin installation on your device
• Start collaborating with your team using diagrams and version control, Works with 70+ databases, online or offline.

Visit DbSchema >>

Download for Free

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5) DrawSQL

DrawSQL was an ideal tool when I checked different options for the best database design tools for teams. It made schema visualization straightforward and let me collaborate with other stakeholders in real time. I particularly liked how the diagram changes reflected instantly in our shared workspace. For growing teams, it is a superior choice that allows you to stay organized and visually informed. Agile development teams are increasingly relying on DrawSQL to manage fast-changing database models, reducing rework and enhancing development accuracy across sprints.

Features:

• Database Diagram Generation: It allows you to create full database diagrams just by uploading your SQL scripts. I found this helpful when migrating legacy databases into visual form. I suggest cleaning your SQL schema before upload to avoid incorrect or redundant diagram elements.
• Diagram Exportation: I could instantly export diagrams as MySQL DDL files, which made collaboration much easier. The exports are accurate and ready to be reused in your own projects. While testing this feature, one thing I noticed was that naming conventions affect export quality—use standardized names.
• Laravel Migration Generation: It generates Laravel migration code directly from diagrams, removing manual coding effort. This helps maintain structural consistency during backend development. When I used it in a client project, it saved me over two hours of routine migration writing.
• Database Diagrams Collection: DrawSQL offers over 200 curated database diagrams from well-known applications. These diagrams serve as practical learning references for new architects. I recommend bookmarking the ones that align with your tech stack—it helps with quick model prototyping.
• DBMS Compatibility: I could connect diagrams with MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Microsoft SQL without issues. This broad compatibility ensured I didn’t need separate tools per client. For mixed-DB environments, this was a major advantage and saved tool-switching time.

👉 How to Get DrawSQL for Free?

• Go to the official DrawSQL website to start your free access
• Click on Try DrawSQL button and complete the registration process
• You can design, visualize, and collaborate on ER diagrams with public access and up to 15 tables per diagram

Visit DrawSQL >>

Lifetime Free Basic Plan

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6) Moqups

Moqups stands out with its streamlined design and smart interface. I went through different tools for ER diagramming, and Moqups made diagramming feel approachable and quick. I recommend it to anyone who wants to create wireframes and ER diagrams on a budget. It is important that tools support visual thinkers, and this one does. It offered me everything from shapes to templates in one click. As I carried out my evaluation, I appreciated its attention to real-time feedback and version control. This ER diagram editor software is also great for teaching beginners data structure visually.

Features:

• ERD‑specific Stencils: The ERD stencil library includes essential elements like entities, relationships, and attributes. These are structured for clarity and aligned with standard database modeling rules. While using this feature one thing I noticed was how smoothly the connectors auto-align when snapping to entity edges—it saves a lot of cleanup time.
• Database Diagram Templates: Moqups offers ready-to-edit templates for database and ecommerce structures. These templates are particularly helpful for beginners or anyone short on time. I recommend starting with the ecommerce ERD—it covers customer flows, product tables, and transactions beautifully.
• Diagram Extenders: With one click, you can extend flows using smart arrows without manually adding new blocks. It’s intuitive and helps maintain visual continuity. The tool lets you chain multiple elements in sequence, which I found helpful while mapping foreign key relations across multiple schemas.
• Master Pages & Page Management: You can create a master page to standardize headers, legends, or notes across all your diagrams. Rearranging or duplicating pages takes only a few clicks. I once reused a complex master layout across four different database systems to save hours of setup time.
• Sticky Containers: Sticky containers let you group related tables while keeping visual order. When you move the container, all internal elements stay connected. I suggest naming your containers based on logical modules—like “User Management” or “Product Catalog”—to simplify large schema navigation.
• CSV Data Paste: Paste column data from spreadsheets directly into your ERD tables. It auto-generates the field layout, which makes prototyping super quick. I used this to convert legacy CSV specs into visual diagrams during a data migration project.

👉 How to Get Moqups for Free?

• Head over to the Moqups homepage using your preferred web browser.
• Tap the Sign up for free option and create your account to begin collaborating visually with access to 150+ templates at no initial cost.

Link: https://moqups.com/

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7) Dbdiagram.io

Dbdiagram.io is a remarkable tool I tested while compiling this list. I particularly appreciate how easily I could visualize table relationships without installing anything. During my analysis, I noticed how simple the interface was for beginners and how it scaled with growing needs. It is important to note how the tool supports importing from SQL, which is a great way to reverse engineer existing databases. In my experience, this platform delivers one of the best diagramming experiences without the usual friction.

Features:

• Simple DSL-first Design: Allows fast schema creation by typing DBML statements that render diagrams in real time. It’s smooth, intuitive, and saves clicks compared to traditional drag-and-drop tools. While testing this feature, I found that using keyboard shortcuts with DBML syntax significantly speeds up editing workflows.
• SQL Import/Export: Convert SQL dumps into diagrams within seconds and export them in multiple formats. I used this to convert a legacy MySQL schema into a Rails schema.rb file for smoother integration. I recommend using the export-to-SQL feature after each session to maintain version backups without leaving the editor.
• Real-time Collaboration: Enables shared editing directly in the browser with instant syncing for all users. This helped my remote team work together on schema changes without version control conflicts. There is also an option that lets you invite team members via a shared link without requiring them to log in, which is great for quick reviews.
• Password‑protected Diagrams: Protects sensitive data models by locking access with a password. I used this while collaborating on a client project that required confidentiality and limited exposure. It’s simple to activate and reassures stakeholders about data safety.
• Diagram Detail Levels: Offers multiple viewing modes to switch between abstract and detailed views. This flexibility helped me present clean overviews during stakeholder meetings and deep dives during development. I suggest toggling to “keys only” mode when auditing foreign key relationships—it makes spotting issues faster.

👉 How to Get Dbdiagram.io for Free?

• Open your web browser and go to the official Dbdiagram.io website to begin.
• Click on the “Create your diagram” button and sign up with your email to access this free and simple tool made for drawing ER diagrams using code.

Link: https://dbdiagram.io/home

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8) QuickDBD

QuickDBD gave me a surprisingly effortless way to create clear and clean database diagrams. I tested the tool to see how well it performs for quick modeling, and I was not disappointed. The typing-to-diagram feature is a great way to speed up work. During my analysis, I noticed it simplifies the whole process by turning plain text into visuals. This is one of the best tools if you aim to skip unnecessary setup and dive straight into diagramming. I suggest trying QuickDBD if you are tired of over-complicated diagram tools.

Features:

• Draw by Typing: Quickly create tables and relationships using just text commands, eliminating the need to switch between keyboard and mouse. This saves a lot of time, especially for fast typers. I recommend defining all entities in a notepad first, then pasting them to preview the schema instantly.
• Drag-to-Connect: After typing tables and columns, relationships can be visually created by dragging field endpoints. The drag-to-connect feature makes the structure easier to understand for visual learners. While using this feature one thing I noticed is that hovering over connectors gives you instant edit options, making adjustments seamless.
• Intelligent Formatting: Clean, professional-looking layouts are auto-generated, enhancing readability without manual tweaks. The diagram adjusts itself neatly even when you add or remove tables. I used this while preparing documentation for a data pipeline project, and the output looked polished without needing design edits.
• Multi-DB Support: Designed schemas are compatible across multiple DBMS platforms including MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, MariaDB, and SQL Server. You can switch between databases without redesigning your schema. The tool lets you export as SQL for each type, which I found useful when migrating between MySQL and PostgreSQL.
• No Install/Browser-Based: Fully web-based and functional without downloads, ideal for quick setups and use anywhere. I once used it on a shared machine during a client meeting, and it worked perfectly without any setup. It’s especially helpful for freelancers or consultants who switch environments often.

👉 How to Get QuickDBD for Free?

• Open the official QuickDBD website.
• Click on the “Create your diagram” button to begin and set up your free account which is perfect for developers and analysts who work with ER diagrams using code.

Link: https://www.quickdatabasediagrams.com/

How Did We Choose Best FREE Database Diagram Design Tools?

At Guru99, we are committed to delivering accurate, relevant, and objective content backed by professional expertise. Our editorial team ensures every article is carefully reviewed to provide trustworthy and informative resources. With over 80 hours of focused research, we analyzed 30+ tools to compile a comprehensive list of the best free database diagram design tools. This guide compares both free and paid options, emphasizing features, usability, and overall value. Understanding the right tool is essential for streamlining database planning and development.

• User Interface & Accessibility: We made sure to shortlist tools that offer intuitive navigation with ease for all users.
• Collaboration Capabilities: Our team chose tools that allow you to co-edit and comment in real-time seamlessly.
• Export and Integration Options: We selected platforms that support export formats and connect with commonly used development stacks.
• Feature-Rich Free Plans: We chose based on free versions that include essential features typically needed for solid design tasks.
• Security and Data Privacy: Experts in our team selected tools that ensure your data stays protected and encrypted consistently.
• Performance & Reliability: We made sure to shortlist tools optimized for efficiency and consistently responsive during complex schema creation.

Verdict:

When choosing the best database design tools above, I highly focused on features like ease of collaboration, comprehensive database modeling capabilities, and user-friendly interfaces. However, here are my top picks that stood out the most:

• Miro is my top choice for its powerful and customizable canvas that fosters real-time collaboration. These features make it a superior choice for distributed teams.
• EdrawMax offers excellent flexibility and robust design options. It is great for users who need a comprehensive tool for complex diagrams.
• Visme impresses with its user-friendly interface and advanced visual customization. Hence, it is one of my top recommendations for solving design needs efficiently.

FAQs