Legal · mapaflow.com
Mapaflow vs Draw.io
Last updated: Mayo 2026
TL;DR: Draw.io is free and open-source — a great local diagramming tool. Mapaflow is a cloud SaaS with team accounts, global process map and BPM-specific templates. If you need cloud storage, team access control and a process-centric approach — Mapaflow. If you need a free, versatile desktop diagrammer — Draw.io.
Comparison table
| Feature | Mapaflow | Draw.io |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free / €9.95 / €19.95 base | Free (local), paid via Confluence |
| Own cloud storage | ✓ | ✗ |
| Team accounts & roles | ✓ | Via Google/Confluence only |
| Global process map | ✓ | ✗ |
| BPM templates | 6 BPM templates | Many general templates |
| Spanish support | Native | Partial |
| ISO 9001 ready | ✓ | Manual |
| Diagram types | Processes & BPM | All types |
| Open source | ✗ | ✓ |
The core difference: cloud SaaS vs local tool
Draw.io (also known as diagrams.net) is a free, open-source diagramming tool. You can run it in a browser without signing up, and save diagrams to your local computer, Google Drive or OneDrive. This makes it completely free — but also means there is no central cloud storage, no team accounts and no process-management features.
Mapaflow is a cloud SaaS. Diagrams are stored in Mapaflow's own servers (EU-based). Teams have accounts with roles. You can define who can see or edit each process. The global process map connects all your company diagrams in one place.
When Draw.io is the right choice
- You need a free tool for individual use or occasional diagramming.
- You need many diagram types (UML, network, architecture) beyond process flows.
- Your team already lives in Confluence and you need Confluence-native diagrams.
- You prefer open-source software and want to self-host.
When Mapaflow is the right choice
- You need centralised cloud storage for all company process diagrams.
- Multiple people need to access and edit diagrams with role-based permissions.
- You are documenting processes for ISO 9001, EFQM or internal compliance.
- You want a global process map that links all your company processes.
Try Mapaflow free — 3 diagrams, no credit card required.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Draw.io free?
Draw.io (diagrams.net) is free for local use and for storage in personal Google Drive or OneDrive. However, it has no own cloud storage — diagrams are saved on your computer or third-party services. Mapaflow has its own cloud storage with team accounts, access control and version history.
Does Draw.io have real-time collaboration?
Draw.io has limited collaboration through Google Drive or Confluence integrations. It has no native real-time collaboration system. Mapaflow has team accounts with roles (Administrator, Creator, Viewer) and per-process access control.
What is the main difference between Mapaflow and Draw.io?
The main difference is purpose and service model. Draw.io is a free, general-purpose diagramming tool. Mapaflow is a cloud SaaS specialised in business process management, with cloud storage, team management, global process map and BPM templates.