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#8

yEd is ranked #8 in the Diagram Software product directory based on the latest available data collected by SelectHub. Compare the leaders with our In-Depth Report.

yEd Pricing

Based on our most recent analysis, yEd pricing starts at $0 (Free).

Price
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Starting From
$0
Pricing Model
Free
Free Trial
Yes, Request for Free

Training Resources

yEd is supported with the following types of training:

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars

Support

The following support services are available for yEd:

Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Help Desk
Knowledge Base
Tickets
Training
24/7 Live Support

yEd Benefits and Insights

Why use yEd?

Key differentiators & advantages of yEd

  • Enhanced Productivity: yEd's intuitive interface allows users to create complex diagrams quickly, reducing the time spent on manual drawing and adjustments.
  • Automated Layouts: The software offers various automatic layout algorithms, such as hierarchical and organic layouts, which organize diagrams efficiently without manual intervention.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: yEd runs on multiple operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring accessibility for diverse user groups.
  • Customizable Visuals: Users can tailor the appearance of diagrams with customizable shapes, colors, and styles, enhancing clarity and visual appeal.
  • Data Import and Export: yEd supports importing data from various formats like Excel and XML, and exporting diagrams to formats such as PDF and SVG, facilitating seamless data integration and sharing.
  • Collaboration-Friendly: The ability to save diagrams in a variety of formats makes it easy to share and collaborate with team members, even if they do not use yEd.
  • Error Reduction: Automated alignment and distribution tools help minimize errors and inconsistencies in diagram layouts, ensuring professional-quality results.
  • Versatile Application: Suitable for a wide range of diagram types including flowcharts, network diagrams, and UML diagrams, making it a versatile tool for various industries.
  • Free of Charge: yEd is available for free, providing powerful diagramming capabilities without the need for a financial investment, making it accessible to individuals and organizations with limited budgets.
  • Extensive Documentation: Comprehensive user guides and tutorials are available, helping users to quickly learn and effectively utilize the software's features.

Industry Expertise

yEd is a versatile diagramming tool that is well-suited for professionals in various industries, including software engineering, data analysis, IT, project management, and business consulting. Its ability to create visually appealing and informative diagrams makes it a valuable asset for documentation purposes, particularly in fields like clinical laboratories where workflow algorithms and network infrastructure diagrams are frequently needed.

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Based on an aggregate of yEd reviews taken from the sources above, the following pros & cons have been curated by a SelectHub Market Analyst.

Pros

  • Intuitive Interface: yEd provides a user-friendly experience with a comprehensive selection of tools, making diagram creation straightforward.
  • Automated Layout: The software excels at automatically arranging complex diagrams, even with large datasets, saving users time and effort.
  • Data Import Capabilities: yEd streamlines the diagramming process by allowing users to import data directly from Excel and XML files.
  • Versatile Export Options: Users can export their diagrams in various formats, including PNG, JPG, SVG, PDF, and SWF, ensuring compatibility with different applications.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: yEd runs seamlessly on Windows, macOS, and Unix/Linux, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

Cons

  • Steep Learning Curve: New users might find it challenging to quickly learn and navigate yEd's extensive features, potentially slowing down initial diagram creation.
  • Occasional Performance Issues: Some users, especially those on macOS, have reported occasional bugs and sluggish performance, which can disrupt workflow.
  • Limited Real-Time Collaboration: Compared to other diagramming tools, yEd's real-time collaboration features are limited, making it less ideal for teams who need to work on diagrams simultaneously.

Researcher's Summary:

User reviews from the past year indicate that yEd is a breath of fresh air for many, particularly those seeking a robust yet free solution. Users consistently praise its intuitive interface and powerful automatic layout features, highlighting how these simplify the creation of complex diagrams, even for large datasets. The ability to import data from various sources, including Excel spreadsheets, and export to formats like PNG, JPG, and PDF further solidifies its practicality in professional settings.

However, yEd is not without its drawbacks. Some users find the interface somewhat dated compared to newer tools like Lucidchart or Draw.io. The most significant criticism, however, stems from the restrictive licensing, which explicitly prohibits its use in automated processes. This limitation can be a dealbreaker for developers or businesses looking to integrate diagramming capabilities into their workflows.

Overall, yEd emerges as a powerful and versatile diagramming tool best suited for individuals and businesses seeking a free, feature-rich solution for creating high-quality diagrams. Its intuitive design and robust features make it ideal for various use cases, from software engineering and data analysis to project management and business consulting. However, its restrictive licensing and somewhat dated interface might deter users who require automation capabilities or prefer a more modern look and feel.

Key Features

Notable yEd features include:

  • Automatic Layout Algorithms: yEd offers a variety of automatic layout algorithms, such as hierarchical, organic, and orthogonal, to help you organize complex diagrams efficiently.
  • Import and Export Options: The software supports multiple file formats for both import and export, including GraphML, Excel, and SVG, making it easy to integrate with other tools.
  • Customizable Node and Edge Styles: Users can customize the appearance of nodes and edges with different shapes, colors, and labels to suit their specific needs.
  • Real-time Collaboration: yEd allows for real-time collaboration, enabling multiple users to work on the same diagram simultaneously.
  • Extensive Symbol Libraries: The software includes a wide range of pre-defined symbols and icons, covering various domains such as flowcharts, UML, and network diagrams.
  • Data Binding: yEd supports data binding, allowing you to link diagram elements to external data sources for dynamic updates.
  • Integrated Search Functionality: The integrated search feature helps users quickly locate specific elements within large diagrams.
  • Undo/Redo Functionality: Comprehensive undo and redo capabilities ensure that users can easily correct mistakes and experiment with different layouts.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: yEd is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring that it can be used on a variety of operating systems.
  • Scriptable via Groovy: Advanced users can leverage Groovy scripting to automate repetitive tasks and customize the software's behavior.
  • Interactive Tutorials and Documentation: yEd provides extensive tutorials and documentation to help users get up to speed quickly and make the most of its features.
  • Free to Use: yEd is available as a free download, making it accessible to a wide range of users without any financial commitment.
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