VS
Excalidraw vs FigJam — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of Excalidraw and FigJam to help you pick the right tool for your workflow.
TLDR
Quick Verdict
Excalidraw takes the lead with a 4.7 rating and is best for developers wanting quick, informal technical diagrams. FigJam (4.5) is the better pick if you need design teams already using figma.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Excalidraw | FigJam |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★★ 4.7(110) | ★★★★★ 4.5(145) |
| Pricing Model | free | freemium |
| Starter Price | Free | $5/editor/mo |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | Web, VS Code Extension | Web, Desktop |
| Learning Curve | Easy | Easy |
| API Available | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Developers wanting quick, informal technical diagrams | Design teams already using Figma |
| Verdict | Best Free Whiteboard | Best for Figma Users |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | Excalidraw | FigJam |
|---|---|---|
| Hand-Drawn Style | — | |
| Real-Time Collaboration | — | |
| Library System | — | |
| Encryption | — | |
| Open Source | — | |
| Whiteboard | — | |
| Sticky Notes | — | |
| Voting | — | |
| Diagramming | — | |
| Figma Integration | — |
Excalidraw
Pros
- ✓Completely free and open-source
- ✓Charming hand-drawn aesthetic
- ✓Zero setup — works in browser
Cons
- ✕Not for professional diagrams
- ✕Limited shape library
- ✕Collaboration features basic vs Miro
FigJam
Pros
- ✓Seamless Figma integration
- ✓Very affordable
- ✓Fun and easy to use
Cons
- ✕Less powerful than Miro
- ✕Limited template library
- ✕Mostly useful if you already use Figma
The Bottom Line
Both Excalidraw and FigJam are solid tools in the Cloud Storage & Collaboration space. Excalidraw edges ahead with a stronger overall rating (4.7 vs 4.5) and is the better choice for developers wanting quick, informal technical diagrams. However, if you prioritize design teams already using figma, FigJam is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Excalidraw better than FigJam?▼
Excalidraw scores higher overall with a 4.7 rating vs 4.5. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs. Excalidraw is best for Developers wanting quick, informal technical diagrams, while FigJam is best for Design teams already using Figma.
Can I switch from Excalidraw to FigJam?▼
Yes, most users can migrate between the two. FigJam offers a free tier to test before committing.
Which is more affordable, Excalidraw or FigJam?▼
Excalidraw starts at Free, while FigJam starts at $5/editor/mo. Excalidraw offers a free tier. FigJam offers a free tier.