Your Mac is built for efficiency, but even the best tools can’t prevent mental clutter when your ideas are scattered. Jotting down notes helps, but doesn’t always show the big picture.
That’s where mind mapping software comes in. It turns scattered thoughts into clear, structured visuals, making it easier to brainstorm, plan, and organize without losing track of anything.
Whether you want a simple drag-and-drop tool or something for team collaboration, these mind mapping apps will help you think clearly and work smarter on your Mac.
11 Best Mind Mapping Software for Mac
- Best Mind Mapping Software for Mac at a Glance
- What Should You Look for in Mind Mapping Software for Mac?
- The Best Mind Mapping Software for Mac
- 1. ClickUp (Best for mind mapping with project management)
- 2. Miro (Best for collaborative mind mapping with workflow integration)
- 3. MindNode (Best for visually appealing mind maps on Apple devices)
- 4. Xmind (Best for structured diagrams with multiple map styles)
- 5. SimpleMind (Best for offline mind mapping with total layout control)
- 6. MindMeister (Best for cloud-based mind mapping with team collaboration)
- 7. ConceptDraw (Best for professional-grade mind maps with data linking)
- 8. Coggle (Best for intuitive mind mapping with unlimited branches)
- 9. EdrawMind (Best for AI-enhanced brainstorming)
- 10. Creately (Best for combining mind maps with database-driven workflows)
- 11. Ayoa (Best for neuro-inclusive mind mapping)
Summarize this article for me pleaseBest Mind Mapping Software for Mac at a Glance
| Tool Name | Best Features | Ideal for | Pricing |
| ClickUp | Unlimited mind maps, Real-time collaboration, Mind Maps & Whiteboards, AI assistant (ClickUp Brain), Task management integration | Project management, cross-functional teams, remote teams, teams needing idea-to-execution workflow | Free plan available Paid plans start at $7/month per user |
| Miro | Infinite canvas, AI-powered suggestions, Real-time collaboration, Large template library, Workflow integrations | Distributed teams, design, product, education, innovation teams | Paid plans start at $10/month per user |
| MindNode | Visual tags and Focus Mode, Quick Entry, iCloud sync across Apple devices, Custom themes and styles | Individuals, students, Apple-centric teams, solo professionals | Paid plans start at $2.99/month per user |
| Xmind | Multiple map styles (logic, fishbone, etc.), Pitch Mode for presentations, Zen Mode, Voice notes | Teams needing structured diagrams, educators, business professionals | Paid plans start at $10/month per user |
| SimpleMind | Full offline access, Autofocus Mode, 15+ style sheets, Export as PDF/image | Individuals, students, privacy-focused users, offline users | Paid plans start at $29.99 |
| MindMeister | Real-time collaboration, Multiple layouts (map, list, org chart), Slide Mode, MeisterTask integration | Remote teams, students, professionals, collaborative brainstorming | Paid plans start at $4.50/month per user |
| ConceptDraw | Professional-grade diagrams, Data linking, Gantt charts and flowcharts, Vector drawing tools | Enterprise, project managers, business analysts, technical teams | Paid plans start at $199 per license |
| Coggle | Unlimited branches, Multiple starting points, Real-time collaboration, Version history | Small teams, educators, quick brainstorming, visual thinkers | Paid plans start at $5/month |
| EdrawMind | AI-powered brainstorming, Multiple diagram types, Real-time collaboration, Large template library | Teams needing AI features, cross-platform users, project planners | Paid plans start at $59/year per user |
| Creately | Multi-perspective visualization, Database-driven workflows, App integrations, Secure workspaces | Teams combining diagrams with data, project managers, business ops | Paid plans start at $8/month per user |
| Ayoa | Neuro-inclusive design, Whiteboard and Outline modes, Voting features, Task boards and Gantt charts | Neurodiverse teams, creative teams, educators, project managers | Paid plans start at $12.45/month per user |
Summarize this article for me pleaseWhat Should You Look for in Mind Mapping Software for Mac?
Finding the right mind mapping software can make a big difference in how ideas are captured, organized, and shared. The best tools should offer flexibility, ease of use, and features that enhance creativity and productivity without adding complexity.
So, what should you look for? Let’s break it down. ⚒️
- Choose your layout: Support for radial, tree, concept, and flowchart structures to fit different thinking styles
- Simplify brainstorming: AI-powered idea generation, auto-structuring, and content suggestions to speed up mapping
- Customize for clarity: Themes, fonts, and colors to personalize maps and improve accessibility for different cognitive needs
- Collaborate in real time: Shared workspaces, in-app comments, and voting to make teamwork seamless
- Convert ideas into action: Task management integrations, Kanban boards, and timeline views to move from planning to execution
- Work across devices: Cloud syncing and offline access to ensure flexibility when working remotely
- Export and share easily: Multiple file formats like PDF, PNG, and text documents to integrate with other tools
💡 Pro Tip: Keep branches short and sweet! Use keywords or short phrases instead of long sentences to keep your mind map clean and easy to navigate.
How we review software at ClickUp
Our editorial team follows a transparent, research-backed, and vendor-neutral process, so you can trust that our recommendations are based on real product value.
Here’s a detailed rundown of how we review software at ClickUp.
Summarize this article for me pleaseThe Best Mind Mapping Software for Mac
Here’s a breakdown of the best mind mapping software for Mac, each catering to different needs, from creative brainstorming to structured project management.
1. ClickUp (Best for mind mapping with project management)
Coming up with ideas is easy, but structuring them as mind maps and converting them into actionable strategies is where most tools fall short.
That’s where ClickUp stands out. It’s the ultimate work management platform that unifies project management, knowledge sharing, and team communication—all powered by AI to help you work faster and smarter.
ClickUp Mind Maps
Turn your brainstorms into structured, actionable plans with ClickUp Mind Maps. You can organize ideas, draw connections, and turn them into tasks and deadlines effortlessly.
Need a cleaner layout? One click automatically realigns everything while keeping the hierarchy intact, so your map stays clear and easy to follow.
ClickUp Whiteboards
While Mind Maps offer a structured, hierarchical layout with text, shapes, icons, images, and links, ClickUp Whiteboards provide a more flexible, free-form space for brainstorming and collaboration.
Whiteboards let you sketch ideas, create diagrams, and organize thoughts without a predefined structure, making them ideal for dynamic idea exploration. You can connect Whiteboards directly to ClickUp Tasks, so every great idea seamlessly moves into execution, making it the best whiteboard software.
ClickUp Brain
But turning ideas into tasks is just the beginning. What if you could instantly surface key insights, pull relevant information, and get AI-powered suggestions while working on your mind maps and whiteboards? That’s where ClickUp Brain comes in.
ClickUp Brain is an intelligent AI assistant that helps you recall past discussions, summarize complex information, and suggest next steps without searching through endless notes.
Working on a research paper? ClickUp Brain summarizes your mind map notes and suggests relevant topics.
ClickUp Simple Mind Map Template
Even with all the features, starting from scratch can be time-consuming. The ClickUp Simple Mind Map Template lets you instantly apply structured layouts for brainstorming and project development.
Your central idea serves as the root of this template, with subtopics branching out as nodes.
For added clarity, their connections are represented by color-coded connectors. Plus, you can choose between Task Mode for interactive nodes that track assignments, checklists, and time, or Blank Mode for a clean, static layout ideal for brainstorming.
ClickUp best features
- Create unlimited mind maps: Build as many mind maps as needed, all within a single platform
- Brainstorm with interactive tools: Add sticky notes, upload images, draw freehand, and link ClickUp artifacts to create dynamic visual plans
- Collaborate in real time: Work together seamlessly, generate ideas, and execute projects with built-in team collaboration tools such as ClickUp Chat
- Switch between mind maps and whiteboards: Adapt to different workflows by toggling between structured mind maps and free-form Whiteboards
- Automate workflows: Reduce manual work by automating task assignments, status updates, and reminders with ClickUp Automations
ClickUp limitations
- The vast number of tools and settings may feel overwhelming for those looking for a simpler solution
ClickUp pricing
free forever
Best for personal use
Free Free
Key Features:
60MB Storage
Unlimited Tasks
Unlimited Free Plan Members
unlimited
Best for small teams
$7 $10
Everything in Free Forever plus:
2GB Storage per user
Unlimited Folders and Spaces
Unlimited Integrations
business
Best for mid-sized teams
$12 $19
Everything in Unlimited, plus:
Google SSO
Unlimited Storage
Unlimited Teams
enterprise
Best for many large teams
Get a custom demo and see how ClickUp aligns with your goals.
Everything in Business, plus:
White Labeling
Conditional Logic in Forms
Team Sharing for Spaces
* Prices when billed annually
The world's most complete work AI, starting at $9 per month
ClickUp Brain is a no Brainer. One AI to manage your work, at a fraction of the cost.
ClickUp ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.7/5 (10,000+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.6/5 (4,000+ reviews)
What are real-life users saying about ClickUp?
Here’s what a G2 reviewer had to say about ClickUp:
2. Miro (Best for collaborative mind mapping with workflow integration)
Miro is an online collaborative workspace designed to facilitate innovation and teamwork among distributed teams of all sizes. It provides a virtual space where design teams can come together, share ideas, and visualize concepts in real time, regardless of their physical locations.
Miro’s infinite canvas and intuitive drag-and-drop interface make it easy to brainstorm, structure thoughts, and connect ideas without limitations. With a dedicated macOS app, this data visualization tool ensures a smooth experience with optimized performance, keyboard shortcuts, and native integrations that enhance productivity.
Miro best features
- Automatically structure ideas with AI-powered suggestions that connect related concepts
- Access a vast library of customizable mind mapping templates for brainstorming, planning, and decision-making
- Get instant summaries of complex mind maps and let AI highlight key takeaways
- Work with classmates or colleagues simultaneously, leaving comments, reactions, and edits in real time
- Save mind maps as PDFs, images, or interactive links for seamless sharing across platforms
Miro limitations
- Finding files on Mac using Miro can be challenging
- There is no way to update image links within boards, which can be frustrating when working with frequently changing assets
Miro pricing
- Free
- Starter: $10/month per user
- Business: $16/month per user
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Miro ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.7/5 (7,700+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.7/5 (1,600+ reviews)
What are real-life users saying about Miro?
Here’s a G2 reviewer’s take on it:
🔍 Did You Know? Competitive mind mapping exists! The World Mind Mapping Championship, founded by Tony Buzan, brings together top thinkers to create intricate, detailed mind maps.
3. MindNode (Best for visually appealing mind maps on Apple devices)
MindNode is a native macOS mind mapping tool designed for users who want a structured yet flexible way to capture and organize their ideas. The clean, distraction-free interface ensures that students, professionals, and teams can focus on their ideas without unnecessary complexity.
MindNode’s macOS-first design ensures smooth performance, system-wide shortcuts, and iCloud sync across Apple devices. The combination of mind maps and outlines allows for flexible thinking, letting you switch between freeform brainstorming and structured planning. Custom themes, stickers, and dark mode provide personalization options, making mind maps clearer and more engaging.
MindNode best features
- Leverage Visual Tags to categorize thoughts and Focus Mode to concentrate on specific branches
- Use Quick Entry to update your thoughts instantly without opening the full app
- Sync across all Apple devices (Mac, iPhone, and iPad) with iCloud storage options
- Customize themes and styles by adjusting colors, fonts, and layouts to match your workflow
MindNode limitations
- Copying and pasting content on other apps can be problematic, with formatting issues related to font sizes, indentation, and tabs
- Unlike some competitors, MindNode does not offer pre-designed templates to visually represent how ideas evolve
MindNode pricing
- Free
- MindNode Plus: $2.99/month per user
MindNode ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.2/5 (30+ reviews)
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
What are real-life users saying about MindNode?
Straight from a G2 review:
4. Xmind (Best for structured diagrams with multiple map styles)
Xmind is a feature-rich mind mapping tool that operates seamlessly on macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, iPadOS, Android, and the web, ensuring accessibility across devices. With a wide range of mapping structures, such as logic charts, brace maps, and fishbone diagrams, Xmind adapts to different thinking styles and workflows.
This AI tool for Mac stands out for its ability to switch between multiple structures within a single map, allowing you to mix radial mind maps, trees, and timelines for better visualization. Moreover, AI assistance streamlines idea generation, while customization options like stickers, color-coded branches, and themes make maps visually engaging.
Xmind best features
- Use Pitch Mode to transform mind maps into presentation-ready slides without manual formatting
- Add notes, including voice notes, directly to topics for capturing key insights without interrupting workflows
- Create diverse mind map examples like logic charts, brace maps, organization charts, tree structures, timelines, fishbone diagrams, tree tables, and matrices
- Enhance focus with Zen Mode, a distraction-free workspace that helps you concentrate on specific mind map sections
Xmind limitations
- The lack of support for key formats like OPML and Markdown makes it difficult to integrate mind maps into document workflows
- The newer version has introduced unnecessary options in the interface, making it less streamlined for business presentations
Xmind pricing
- Free
- Pro: $10/month per user
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Xmind ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.3/5 (50+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.5/5 (100+ reviews)
What are real-life users saying about Xmind?
A reviewer on G2 put it this way:
🔍 Did You Know? Tony Buzan first popularized the concept of mind mapping and wrote several books on the topic.
5. SimpleMind (Best for offline mind mapping with total layout control)
SimpleMind is a mind mapping application designed to help you organize thoughts, remember information, and generate new ideas. Its macOS app offers both free-form and auto-layout options, allowing you to structure your thoughts as needed.
Students can use SimpleMind to break down study materials, link concepts with documents and web pages, and track progress using checkboxes. Meanwhile, professionals can benefit from advanced customization, including color-coded topics, style sheets, and detailed formatting options that make presentations and reports more structured.
SimpleMind best features
- Customize mind maps with 15+ built-in style sheets or create unique themes
- Enable Autofocus Mode to concentrate on specific sections without distractions
- Sort child topics automatically for structured and organized brainstorming techniques using collapsing and expanding branches
- Export mind maps as PDFs or images for easy sharing and collaboration
- Enrich mind maps by adding images, photos, notes, icons, and links to topics, files, or web pages
SimpleMind limitations
- The interface feels outdated, lacking modern customization options to create visually appealing mind maps
- Users cannot easily save and reuse whiteboard templates, requiring manual setup for each new project
SimpleMind pricing
- Free
- SimpleMind Single User: $29.99
- SimpleMind Family/Team users: $49.99
SimpleMind ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: Not enough reviews
What are real-life users saying about SimpleMind?
Here’s a G2 reviewer‘s take on SimpleMind:
6. MindMeister (Best for cloud-based mind mapping with team collaboration)
MindMeister is a web-based mind mapping tool built for students, professionals, and teams who need a visual and collaborative way to structure ideas. It allows multiple Mac users to work simultaneously on the same mind map, enhancing teamwork and productivity.
You can structure your ideas in a way that fits your workflows with mixed map layouts, including traditional mind maps, org charts, and lists.
Like some of the tools we covered, MindMeister includes a Focus Mode to eliminate distractions for deep work. However, its standout feature is Outline Mode, which transforms visual mind maps into structured text lists for easy organization.
MindMeister best features
- Switch between mind map, list, and org chart layouts for better organization
- Convert maps into presentations instantly with the built-in Slide Mode
- Sync with MeisterTask to turn ideas into actionable tasks for visual project management
- Collaborate in real time with comments and notifications for streamlined teamwork
MindMeister limitations
- Compared to competitors, MindMeister offers limited mind map structures, missing options like timelines and fishbone diagrams
- Users have reported unexpected auto-renewal charges with limited flexibility in subscription modifications or refunds
MindMeister pricing
- Free
- Personal: $4.50/month per user (Billed half-yearly)
- Pro: $6.50/month per user (Billed half-yearly)
- Business: $10.50/month per user (Billed half-yearly)
MindMeister ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.2/5 (30+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.6/5 (290+ reviews)
🧠 Fun Fact: Psychologists and therapists use mind maps as a tool for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and journaling to help patients organize thoughts and emotions.
7. ConceptDraw (Best for professional-grade mind maps with data linking)
ConceptDraw is a comprehensive suite of business productivity software developed by CS Odessa. The ConceptDraw suite includes three key applications. ConceptDraw DIAGRAM is a professional diagramming tool for creating flowcharts, network diagrams, and architectural plans using an extensive template library and vector drawing tools.
ConceptDraw MINDMAP supports brainstorming and idea organization with logical mind mapping features, making it ideal for concept maps and knowledge management.
ConceptDraw PROJECT streamlines project management with tools for task tracking, resource allocation, and timeline monitoring, ensuring seamless collaboration in the workplace.
ConceptDraw best features
- Use vector-based drawing tools for precise, professional-grade mind maps
- Switch between mind maps, Gantt charts, and flowcharts to fit different planning needs
- Embed links, documents, and multimedia files directly within mind maps for added context
- Export in multiple formats, including SVG, PDF, and PNG, for easy sharing across platforms
ConceptDraw limitations
- The pricing and upgrade policy can be unclear, making it difficult to determine the total cost
- Lacks a web-based version, restricting collaboration and remote access
ConceptDraw pricing
- ConceptDraw PROJECT 15: $299 per license
- ConceptDraw DIAGRAM 18: $199 per license
- ConceptDraw MINDMAP 16: $199 per license
- ConceptDraw OFFICE 11: $299 (Includes Project, Diagram, and Mindmap)
ConceptDraw ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.4/5 (20+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.9/5 (20 reviews)
What are real-life users saying about ConceptDraw?
Here’s what a Capterra reviewer had to say about ConceptDraw:
8. Coggle (Best for intuitive mind mapping with unlimited branches)
Coggle is a streamlined mind mapping tool designed for visualizing ideas, structuring information, and brainstorming solutions. The web-based platform runs smoothly on macOS, with branching structures and color-coded connections.
Diagrams can include unlimited images, floating text, and multiple starting points, making them flexible for mapping out complex concepts. Automatic version tracking ensures that every change is saved, allowing easy reversion to previous iterations.
Coggle best features
- Use multiple starting points in a single diagram for interconnected ideas
- Upload unlimited images and floating text to enrich mind maps with visual context
- Enable real-time collaboration through link sharing without requiring logins
- Track changes with automatic version history and restore previous versions easily
Coggle limitations
- Lacks flexibility in formatting, such as adjusting fonts, themes, or adding floating text outside the structured map
- Difficult to use for presentations, especially with large mind maps, as collapsing or focusing on branches is complicated
Coggle pricing
- Free
- Awesome: $5/month
- Organization: $8/month per user
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Coggle ratings and reviews
- G2: Not enough reviews
- Capterra: 4.5/4 (40+ reviews)
🧠 Fun Fact: Modern mind mapping software now integrates AI to auto-suggest ideas, structure concepts, and even generate complete diagrams based on keywords.
9. EdrawMind (Best for AI-enhanced brainstorming)
EdrawMind is a versatile mind mapping tool designed for organizing thoughts, brainstorming ideas, and structuring information visually. It is accessible on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and web browsers, ensuring users can work seamlessly across different devices.
This AI tool for mind mapping assists with brainstorming, summarizing, and even translating content, making it easier to develop and refine ideas. Beyond traditional mind maps, EdrawMind supports the creation of various diagram types, including flowcharts, fishbone diagrams, organizational charts, and Gantt charts, making it a valuable tool for project management and data visualization.
EdrawMind best features
- Convert outlines to mind maps and switch between formats effortlessly
- Use AI-powered tools for brainstorming, summarization, translation, and content generation
- Collaborate in real time with shared workspaces and cloud syncing
- Access a vast library of pre-designed mind map templates for different use cases
EdrawMind limitations
- Cloud storage integration can be unreliable in the free version, leading to lost work when switching between devices
- Adjusting visual details and formatting can be tedious, making customization less intuitive
EdrawMind pricing
- Efficiency Capture Bundle: $245 (One-time payment)
- EdrawMax: $99/month per user (Billed annually)
- EdrawMind: $59/month per user (Billed annually)
EdrawMind ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.6/5 (60+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.6/5 (50+ reviews)
What are real-life users saying about EdrawMind?
Straight from a G2 review:
💡 Pro Tip: Add priority markers (like stars, flags, or numbers) to highlight urgent or important tasks within your map.
10. Creately (Best for combining mind maps with database-driven workflows)
Creately is a visual collaboration and diagramming platform designed to help individuals and teams brainstorm, plan, and execute projects. It offers a user-friendly, intuitive interface with a limitless canvas, allowing you to create a wide array of diagrams, including flowcharts, mind maps, UML diagrams, and more.
AI-powered visualization and an extensive library of brainstorming templates help create structured mind maps quickly. With multi-perspective visualization, a single idea can be transformed into different diagram types. Advanced linking capabilities allow for cross-referencing related topics, keeping all information interconnected.
Creately best features
- Transform ideas into multiple diagram types without redrawing using multi-perspective visualization
- Link related concepts with dynamic connectors to create a structured and interconnected map
- Integrate with external apps to pull in data and maintain two-way synchronization
- Secure workspaces with role-based access and password protection for sensitive projects
Creately limitations
- The app can become sluggish, especially with large diagrams, requiring frequent refreshes
- While basic functions are easy to use, mastering advanced tools requires time and effort
Creately pricing
- Personal: $8/month per user
- Team: $8/month per user
- Business: $149/month per user
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Creately ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.4/5 (1,300+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.4/5 (200+ reviews)
🧠 Fun Fact: Mind mapping dates back to the days of Aristotle and Leonardo da Vinci, who used visual diagrams to organize their thoughts—long before software made it digital.
11. Ayoa (Best for neuro-inclusive mind mapping)
Ayoa’s organic mind maps allow for flexible, free-flowing idea development, while AI-powered assistance helps break down complex topics and generate new connections.
Beyond traditional mind mapping, Ayoa includes a Whiteboard Mode for freeform brainstorming and an Outline View for linear organization. The Document View simplifies writing reports or essays by converting mind maps into structured text.
Designed with neurodiversity in mind, Ayoa offers customization options like font styles and background colors to improve accessibility for different cognitive preferences.
Ayoa best features
- Use Whiteboard Mode for freeform brainstorming and idea development
- Implement voting features to streamline decision-making and gather user feedback
- Adapt workflows to different thinking styles for solo and team projects
- Manage projects with integrated task boards, Gantt charts, and deadlines
Ayoa limitations
- Sub-tasks cannot have separate due dates, restricting workflow flexibility
- Uploading and accessing documents within tasks can feel confusing
Ayoa pricing
- Free
- Ayoa Ultimate: $12.45/month per user
Ayoa ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.4/5 (50+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.5/5 (200+ reviews)
Summarize this article for me pleaseMap Ideas Out Mac Style With ClickUp
Each mind mapping tool offers its own unique strengths, whether it’s for brainstorming, project planning, or team collaboration. But when managing an entire workflow from ideation to execution, it’s crucial to have a platform that does more than just map out ideas.
That’s where ClickUp stands out as an all-in-one solution. With ClickUp Mind Maps, Whiteboards, and Brain features, you can seamlessly transition from idea generation to task management, collaboration, and tracking, all in one place.
Sign up to ClickUp today and unlock the full potential of your workflow.
Everything you need to stay organized and get work done.
