MindManager
Highlights
Both XMind and MindManager are mind mapping tools, a type of diagramming software. Each tool includes concept ideation features that aim to help users create topics and visualize relationships between them. MindManager and XMind are both preferred by enterprise businesses on TrustRadius, though XMind offers a forever free version for personal use while MindManager does not.
Features
Each product includes a range of mind mapping and productivity features, including:
- Various types of mindmap templates (radial map, fishbone, treemap, matrix, timeline, org charts, free-form, concept, flow-chart, etc.)
- Ability to export maps as PNG, SVG, PDF, and markdown files
- Map customization using colors, fonts, stickers, bubbles, themes, boundaries, shapes, etc.
- Ability to link to other files or webpages within maps
- Ability to add notes to specific topics or relationships within the map
Both products have a few unique features as well. For example, XMind allows users to view a written map outline, insert chemical and mathematical equations, and directly share their map via email, on social media platforms, and through note-taking applications. The platform also offers mobile and desktop applications and allows users to log into up to five devices with one subscription.
MindManager has a winder variety of mindmap templates than XMind, including templates for ven diagrams, funnels, onion charts, and Kanban-style charts. It also has a set of project planning and management features such as adding resources and priority markers to topics, Gantt charts, topics task tags, start & end dates, task duration and effort levels, and the ability to assign tasks to other users.
Limitations
When compared with MindManager, XMind’s biggest limitation is the lack of robust project management features, including Gantt charts and task creation and assignment.
On the other hand, MindManager’s main limitation is that it does not have a flexible pricing model and does not have a forever free version, while XMind does. MindManager also does not offer mobile applications.
Pricing
Both products have a one-time license fee, however, XMind also offers biannual and annual subscription pricing options as well.
XMind offers a basic version of its software for free and has subscription-based pricing that starts at $40 per 6 months or $60 per year. Users can also pay a one-time license fee of $129 for access to XMind Pro 8.x. XMind offers a special discount for students, teachers, and education institutions.
While MindManager doesn’t have a forever free version, it does offer a 30-day free trial. After that, it has a one-time license fee of $349 for Windows and Mac desktop applications. It also has a ‘special licensing program’ for enterprise and government users, though prices for these plans are not disclosed on MindManager’s website.
Which Is Right For You?
Both products provide users with robust mind mapping features, but each has different ideal use cases.
XMind is a great option for individuals looking for easy to use mind mapping software for personal use. It’s a good fit for concept ideation and workflow mapping. However, it may not be the right solution for large organizations looking for diagramming software with built-in project management features.
MindManager is better suited for teams that need software to help them ideate, manage, track, and execute projects. It can also handle complex topics mapping and visualize relationships between topics, tasks, and processes. However, MindManager is not ideal for users looking for a free mind mapping software for personal use.
