The 10 best mind mapping software for mapping projects in 2024

A brilliant idea pops into your head, but you don't know how to bring it to life. After all, there's a limit to what you can remember or scribble on a piece of paper!

Have you ever tried mind mapping software? You can implement the mind mapping technique and brainstorm, gain insights and visualize your idea with unlimited mind maps. 

In this article, we'll cover what makes a great mind mapping tool and highlight the top 10 mind mapping software to help you choose the right path. 

Let's get started!

What is mind mapping software?

Mind mapping software is a tool that allows users to visually organize and structure information, thoughts and ideas. It creates a visual representation of information in the form of a diagram or map, connecting related ideas and concepts. This type of software helps improve brainstorming, note-taking, project planning and problem-solving by providing a clear and concise way of connecting information and ideas.

Most mind mapping tools come in different sizes to suit different needs and offer other functionalities.

Generally, the average mind map maker falls into one (or more) of these categories:

• Diagram: a technical diagram, such as engineering flowcharts, architectural projects, network diagrams, etc.
• Brainstorming: problem-solving sessions to organize and present an idea visually
• Business intelligence: visualize data as graphs by importing it from business applications
• Managing software development projects: preparing site map diagrams, software wireframes, etc.

Our selected list of the best mind mapping software includes a combination of these tools to help you determine the one that best suits your needs.

If you're interested in mind maps, check out our articles:

• What is a mind map?
• List of 20 examples of mind maps

10 best mind mapping software  

Here's a closer look at the best mind mapping tools available today:

1. ClickUp

ClickUp is one of the best-rated productivity and mind mapping tools used by productive teams in small and large companies.

From helping you overcome virtual team challenges to monitoring internal or remote team performance, ClickUp is the ultimate tool for remote project management. 

But wait... how will project management software help me draw a mind map?

ClickUp offers hundreds of customizable features to help teams from all sectors improve their workflow from project inception to closure. In fact, ClickUp has not one, but two powerful and functional mind mapping tools: Mind Maps and Whiteboards.

Not only can you create customized mind maps, but you can also store them and connect them to your tasks in ClickUp, keeping all your work organized, accessible and all in one place.

Here, take a closer look at what makes ClickUp Mind Maps and Whiteboards the best mind mapping tools.

What is ClickUp's Mind Maps feature?

ClickUp's mind maps are a visual collaboration tool that helps individuals and teams create free-form mind maps for any need. They are perfect and useful for brainstorming sessions, outlining workflows or complex topics, organizing your thoughts, connecting tasks and much more.

What makes it one of the best mind mapping software is that it is powerful yet flexible, allowing you to organize information in a hierarchical way to help you visualize and analyze a central concept in detail. Map the concept by branching it into several sub-ideas; simply add more branches as you go along to let your ideas run wild and free.

What's more, the mind maps in ClickUp are easy to use. The drag-and-drop functionality enhances the user experience by simplifying the creation and editing process - just click and drag.

You can choose to start from scratch or use ClickUp's simple mind map template to help you get started.

Try ClickUp's simple mind map template

ClickUp whiteboards

Want to take your mind mapping to the next level? Well, you can with ClickUp Whiteboards .

Just like ClickUp's mind maps, Whiteboards provides teams with an online canvas that can be used for brainstorming, business strategy planning, workflow mapping, script development, note-taking, software product development and much more. It also allows you to drag and drop objects onto the whiteboard, making it very convenient and easy to use for your mind mapping needs.

Whiteboards are especially useful for remote team collaboration. Teams can simultaneously sit at the same whiteboard at any time, collaborate on concept maps and connect their work in an easy-to-follow way, while giving them complete freedom to be creative in how they organize and visually present their work.

One of the main differences between ClickUp's mind maps and its whiteboards is the ability to add objects to your canvas, allowing you to add shapes, sticky notes and text that can be converted into a task. You also have the option of drawing freely, uploading an image file and even copying and pasting objects to create your ideal, more visually appealing and detailed mind map.

If you're new to ClickUp Whiteboards, you can start creating your mind map from a blank canvas or use ClickUp's whiteboard introduction template to help you get started!

ClickUp limitations

• No table view in the mobile app (yet)

Don't worry, at ClickUp we are constantly discussing ideas to update our platform. 

ClickUp prices

ClickUp offers a free plan forever. Its paid plan starts at US$7/user per month. 

What people think about mind mapping on ClickUp:

"I like the different ways I can visualize my project and related tasks. I can mentally map out my project, see it as a list, on a Kanban board, as a Gantt chart or even in a table view. The app works with all the different ways I like to think about and plan my projects and tasks, giving me the freedom to plan the way that works for me." -G2Crowd

"I didn't realize how much I would benefit from the different visual representations, specifically the mind map that ClickUp offers." -G2Crowd

ClickUp customer reviews

• G2: 4.7/5 (over 3,320 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.7/5 (over 2,270 reviews)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=CX0VxyWqPGo%3Ffeature%3Doembed

2. XMind

XMind is a simple mind mapping software that helps you generate ideas, goals and tasks. 

Although this mind map software looks like a psychic mutant from the X-Men series, XMind is not so extraordinary. 

XMind's main features

• Zen mode helps you concentrate on a single mind map
• The equation feature allows you to add mathematical and chemical equations
• Brainstorming templates available for different needs
• Colors of various branches to identify different nodes

Pros of XMind

• Protect your mind map files with passwords
• Export the mind map as PNG, PDF or markdown files
• Mobile app for iOS and Android devices available

XMind limitations

• Large mind maps can take a long time to load correctly
• No free plans available
• Not suitable for agile or scrum teams, as XMind has no project management features

XMind prices

The pricing plan for this mapping software starts at US$39.99 for six months.

What people think about mind mapping in XMind:

"Some of the most important features, such as sharing the mind map with other people over the Internet, are not available in the free version. This is a little disappointing, although understandable. The company wants to motivate you to purchase the full software." - Verified Capterra review

"Very easy to learn and teach to others. It has all the basic functionalities of a mind mapping tool." - Verified Capterra review

XMind customer reviews

• G2: 4.3/5 (over 30 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.5/5 (over 70 ratings)

3. ConceptDraw MINDMAP

ConceptDraw MINDMAP is an idea management and diagramming tool that can help you organize your free-running ideas. 

But in essence, this basic mind mapping tool is just Microsoft Office Word with extra functionality. 

You don't need X-ray vision to see that!

Main features of ConceptDraw MINDMAP

• Brainstorm mode with an integrated timer to help you concentrate
• Hypernote feature to add multiple hyperlinks and notes to a single map
• MINDMAP editing tools help you create presentations easily
• The graphic functionality allows you to insert images and icons into your mind maps

ConceptDraw MINDMAP professionals

• Supports more than 20 mapping themes to help you quickly create a mind map template
• You can add attachments to a mind map
• Can transfer mind map data with MS Office and other mind map software

Limitations of ConceptDraw MINDMAP

• Expensive pricing plan
• Outdated interface reminiscent of MS Word
• No support for mobile devices

ConceptDraw MINDMAP prices

The pricing plan for this mapping software starts at $199 for a single-user license. 

What people think about mind mapping in ConceptDraw MINDMAP:

"Great to use when I'm starting a project. A great way to get all the cluttered thoughts out of my head and into an organized form." - Review verified Capterra

"I've used several MindMapping programs and this is one of the best. As with the rest, my main criticism is that it's a bit more time-consuming to use an electronic system, but the advantage is that you're not limited to the dimensions of a piece of paper. Depending on the nature of your project, the best option between the two is readily apparent." - Verified Capterra review

Customer reviews of ConceptDraw MINDMAP

• G2: 3.4/5 (over 10 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.9/5 (over 10 ratings)

4. Mental Manager

MindManager is a mind mapping application best suited to extensive brainstorming sessions. Its drag-and-drop functionality allows you to create a central idea and easily draw new related ideas. 

However, it is a challenge to demonstrate hierarchies with this mapping software. 

MindManager's main features

• Start a diagram from scratch or choose from over 25 integrated templates
• Gantt chart functionality for mapping project schedules
• The MAP 3 add-in allows you to use algebraic calculations and other functions
• Co-editing feature for real-time collaboration

Pros of MindManager

• Easy integration with step-by-step tutorials
• Allows you to create an organization chart, flowchart and concept map 
• Supports keyboard shortcuts to create mind maps quickly

MindManager limitations

• No free plans available
• Limited functionality of the Gantt chart 
• Limited selection of images and icons to choose from 

MindManager prices

The pricing plan for this mapping tool starts at $99/year.

What people think about mind mapping in MindManager:

"I don't think I've used it enough to discover any specific problems. The only problem I had was learning how to use it quickly enough and this was helped by the tutorials that can be accessed within MindManager itself." - Verified Capterra review

"It has helped me organize, brainstorm and be present in my business for many years. It's solid and reliable." - Verified Capterra review

MindManager customer reviews

• G2: 4.5/5 (over 60 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.6/5 (over 60 reviews)

5. Edraw mind map

Edraw Mind Map (formerly known as MindMaster) is a collaborative mind mapping tool that helps give your ideas the structure they need. 

But will this free mind mapping software help you become a mental master like Jean Grey from X-Men? 

Let's take a look... 

Main features of the Edraw mind map

• Brainstorming mode for a practical brainstorming session
• 12 different mind map layouts, such as radial, treemap and fishbone diagrams
• Gantt chart functionality helps create a mind map
• Presentation mode allows you to show your mind map as a slide show

Pros of the Edraw mind map

• Supports different node formats and connection styles
• Export mind maps as JPG, PNG and PDF files
• Available as a mobile app for Android and iOS devices

Limitations of the Edraw mind map

• Gantt chart mode only available in pro version 
• Limited flexibility with mapping layouts, as everything is based on a template
• You can only import files from XMind, MindManager and Edraw Max

Edraw mind map prices

This mind mapping software offers a free version with limited features. The paid plan starts at US$4.92/user month.

What people think about mind mapping in Edraw Mind Map:

"There's nothing I don't like about this software. It would be great if it were possible to import more file formats from other mind mapping software packages, but that's a minor feature." - Verified Capterra review

"There's not much to say about the cons of this software. I would like to see a feature for exporting diagrams to XMind and Freemind, as some colleagues use these tools. It would be nice to import images directly from the web as well." - Review verified Capterra

Customer reviews of Edraw Mind Map

• G2: 4/5 (5+ ratings)
• Capterra: 4.5/5 (over 40 reviews)

6. Miro

Miro is an intuitive, free mind mapping software with collaboration features. It allows distributed teams to brainstorm, map ideas, co-create organizational charts and much more. 

Is Miro a mind-mapping superhero? Probably not. 

Performing simple tasks, such as deleting unused cards, is difficult with this mapping software. 

Miro's main features

• Supports various design styles
• Integrated video and chat with @mentions
• Pre-built mind map models
• Presentation mode to show your map as slides

Pros of Mirô

• Offers an infinite whiteboard for brainstorming and creating powerful free-form diagrams
• Integrates easily with other tools such as Jira, Asana and Slack
• Incorporate documents, spreadsheets and PDFs into mind maps

Miro's limitations

• Board owners may not grant guests access to the edition
• Presentation mode offers limited design and transition features
• Paid plans are expensive

Miró prices

Miro offers a free plan. Its paid plans start at US$10/user per month. 

What people think about mind mapping in Miro:

"I really love Miro's new smart meetings functionality. But as this is quite new, some features are missing and others are not yet as polished as the rest of Miro." - Verified Capterra review

"The only downside I can see is that uploading media such as videos can sometimes take longer to update. Also, the price per license is a bit high for a small company that wants to use it, but the free basic version is quite complete." - Verified Capterra review

Miro customer reviews

• G2: 4.8/5 (over 2,060 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.7/5 (over 490 reviews)

Bonus: compare Miro with Mural!

7. MindMeister

MindMeister is a popular web-based mind mapping software that allows you to collaborate in real time to discuss ideas, plan projects, take notes and much more. 

But it can be inconvenient to connect different ideas using this tool. 

MindMeister's main features

• Full screen presentation mode to display mind maps as a slide show
• Historical mode to see how your map has evolved
• Various themes with colors, styles and formatting options
• Comments and voting features for team collaboration

Pros of MindMeister

• Add notes, links, icons, images or videos to mind maps
• Export mind maps in PNG, PDF or Word formats
• Integrate mind maps into project management with MeisterTask

MindMeister's limitations

• The free plan offers limited resources
• It is not possible to create free-flowing maps
• Formatting is lost when you undo a move

MindMeister prices

This mind mapping app offers a free basic plan. Paid plans start at US$2.49/user per month.  

What people think about mind mapping on MindMeister:

"Mindmeister has been very helpful in planning the story and music, mapping out the recording process, tracking characters, locations, objects and their relationships. It's been a lovely experience." - Review verified Capterra

"The user experience on touchscreen devices is a little dubious. Great to use on desktop, but a bit tricky to navigate and edit on mobile. This might require a completely different interface? Perhaps the workflow is better optimized for using Mindmeister on desktop and MeisterTasks on mobile, but there's a great opportunity for exploration for tablet and iPad users." - Verified Capterra review

MindMeister customer reviews

• G2: 4.4/5 (over 10 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.7/5 (over 190 reviews)

8. Gear

Coggle is an online tool with powerful mind mapping and flowcharting capabilities. You can use this mapping application to create processes, systems and algorithms. 

But can it work at the speed of light like Storm from the X-Men?

Unfortunately, Coggle can seem clumsy or slow when your mind maps get too big.

Coggle main features

• Drag and drop images onto mind maps
• Floating texts and images to annotate parts of the map
• Joint branches and loops to represent different processes
• Several starting points for mapping related topics together 

Pros of Coggle

• Saves all changes so you can revert to a previous version at any time 
• Supports real-time collaboration
• Share mind maps with a link

Coggle's limitations

• No whiteboard feature
• No dedicated desktop or mobile applications
• No option to automatically organize mind map branches

Coggle prices

Coggle also has a free plan. Paid plans start at US$5/user per month. 

What people think about mind mapping on Coggle:

"Very good program, with room for improvement too. Even with its few flaws, it's still an important part of the creative planning process for me." - Verified review Capterra

"For an easy overview of any complex task, you should create a mind map. I've tried a lot of software and I like Coogle the best. It's an online tool for creating spectacular mind maps. In the free trial version you can try out the tool. If you need more extra features, you can get them for an affordable monthly price." - Verified Capterra review

Coggle customer ratings

• G2: 4.4/5 (5+ ratings)
• Capterra: 4.6/5 (over 30 reviews)

9. Lucidchart

Lucidchart is a diagramming tool for visualizing complex organizational processes, systems and structures.

However, this mapping tool can be confusing for new users. 

Lucidchart's main features

• More than 500 mind map templates
• Shape library for dragging and dropping shapes onto your maps
• Automated layout to create data-based diagrams
• Collaboration features such as co-authoring, form-specific comments and in-editor chat
• Create UML diagrams

Pros of Lucidchart

• Cloud-based platform accessible from any device
• Integrates with productivity platforms such as Google apps & Workspace and Slack
• Import data from other applications such as Excel, Zapier and Salesforce

Lucidchart's limitations

• Does not work offline 
• The basic plan has limited resources
• The interface looks outdated

Lucidchart prices

This mind mapping software has a free plan. Paid plans start at US$7.95/user per month. 

What people think about mind mapping on Lucidchart:

"Lucidchart is one of the best design softwares on the market today. I've been using it for over two years now and have no regrets. I love the fact that it's so easy to use, even if you're new to diagramming or visualizing concepts. The only downside is that it lacks more advanced features, such as more shapes to make more detailed drawings." - Verified Capterra review

"Overall, a very good and easy-to-use business process mapping software for anyone who needs to produce process maps fairly quickly. You can quickly produce process maps with a relatively small learning curve and access your saved diagrams via any browser." - Verified Capterra review

Customer reviews of Lucidchart

• G2: 4.5/5 (over 670 reviews)
• Capterra: 4.5/5 (over 1,200 reviews)

10. Carefully

Mindly allows you to create beautiful online mind maps for brainstorming, collecting ideas, planning projects, preparing meetings, etc. 

However, Windows users would absolutely care about Mindly. 

Why? There is no dedicated application or web version for Windows systems!  

Main features with care

• Different color schemes for map elements
• Option to attach notes, images or icons to any element
• Visual clipboard to reorganize your ideas and map content
• Password protect your maps and ideas

Careful pros

• Create an infinite hierarchy of elements 
• Supports multiple devices
• Export mind maps in PDF, OPML and text formats

Conscious limitations

• Limited integration options
• No task management features
• The free version limits the number of maps and elements you can add

Conscious pricing

Mindly has a free version. The full version costs US$6.99 on iOS, US$29.99 on the Mac App Store and US$5.49 on Android.

Watch out for customer reviews

• G2: N/A
• Capterra: N/A

Frequently asked questions about mind mapping software

What are the benefits of using mind mapping software?

Useful for any brainstorming session, mind mapping apps help you plan and organize ideas for better clarity and understanding. It can also help you easily identify the best idea or solution among all the potential ones you have.

So why not use pen and paper? That would be like building a sandcastle on the shore, waiting for the waves to wash it away. 

Unless you want to lose your mind map to the ocean of other things you need to remember, using a piece of paper to map it out may not be the best way. If your idea has a lot of moving parts, mapping it out on a piece of paper can make it seem scattered and disconnected. 

Also, using tons of paper to draw concept maps is not the best way to fight #climatechange . 🙅 ‍♀

A mind mapping application will not only help you map out complex ideas quickly, but you won't have to worry about losing them.

What makes a good mind mapping tool? 

When choosing an excellent mind mapping tool, here are three main features to look out for: 

• Ease of use: using the mapping tool should be as easy as drawing on paper. You shouldn't have to rummage through several menus to create a simple mind map
• Large screen: a large digital screen ensures that you never run out of space to draw. After all, there's no limit to creativity and ideation 🖌️
• Collaboration: essential for agile and scrum teams, real-time collaboration features allow you to share your mind maps with the whole team. This keeps everyone informed about the project

Which mind mapping software is best for your team?  

Although you can always draw a mind map on paper, this doesn't give you the flexibility or the right canvas for your ideas to run wild.  

However, with the right mind mapping tools, this is not a problem. 

With features ranging from real-time collaboration to concept mapping, mind mapping software helps break down even the most complex ideas. 

And while tools like XMind and MindManager are decent mind mapping software solutions, ClickUp is actually the best mind map software on the list. 

With powerful features for mind mapping, project planning and even remote team management, ClickUp is the only tool any project manager needs.

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