Mind map software is a digital tool that lets you create, edit and share mind maps with features paper can't offer — instant reorganization, collaboration, export and, increasingly, AI generation. With dozens of options on the market, the right choice depends less on the "best" tool and more on the one that fits your use. Here's how to decide.

What to evaluate in mind map software

When comparing tools, focus on the criteria that affect your day to day:

Ease of use: creating and branching nodes should be fast, ideally by keyboard (Tab/Enter).
AI generation: modern tools build the map from a topic or text in seconds — a game changer for productivity.
Collaboration: real-time editing and sharing matter if you work in a team.
Export: PNG, PDF and image to use maps outside the tool.
Templates and layouts: ready-made models and options like org chart and list speed up the start.
Price and free plan: check what the free plan unlocks and what requires an upgrade.

Decide which of these weigh most for you before testing options.

Types of mind map software

Tools fall into three broad groups. Dedicated mind-mapping tools focus on speed and the classic radial structure. Infinite whiteboards are freer and more visual, good for broad collaboration but less structured. And AI-integrated tools, more recent, generate the structure automatically and combine mind mapping with productivity.

Knowing which group you fit into already eliminates half the options. Those who want speed and focus prefer the dedicated ones; those who need a free canvas for the whole team look at whiteboards; those who want to start fast and beat the blank page seek the AI-powered ones.

Online or installed?

Online mind map software (in the browser) wins on convenience: nothing to install, access from any device and automatic sync. Installed tools may offer offline work but lose out on collaboration and updates. For most people today, an online tool with a good free plan is the ideal starting point.

InMaps, for example, is an online tool with AI generation, collaboration and export, with a free plan — designed for those who want to create maps fast without installing anything.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best free mind map software? "Best" depends on your use, but prioritize online tools with a free plan that include AI and export. InMaps offers AI generation on the free plan.

Do I have to pay to make mind maps? Not to start. Most good tools have a free plan that's enough for personal use; paid plans unlock higher limits, advanced features and collaboration.

Is mind map software good for teams? Yes. Tools with real-time collaboration and sharing let teams brainstorm and plan together on the same map.

Try InMaps for free — create a map with AI in seconds, with nothing to install.