O

OpenFlowKit

Free
Inputs: text, codeOutputs: image, file
Type
Saas
Company
OpenFlowKit

About OpenFlowKit

OpenFlowKit is a 100% free, open-source diagram engine designed for engineers, architects, and product teams. It allows users to create professional architecture diagrams and flowcharts using either a visual drag-and-drop interface or 'Diagram as Code' with Mermaid.js and a type-safe DSL. Powered by React Flow, it offers a local-first experience where data stays on the user's machine, requiring no signup or cloud synchronization. It also features an AI assistant called Flowpilot for chat-based diagram editing and a unique Figma export that provides editable vector shapes.

How to Use

Users can begin immediately without an account. You can create diagrams by writing code (Mermaid.js/DSL) or by dragging elements onto the canvas. Use the 'Flowpilot AI' to make adjustments like adding nodes or changing styles via chat commands. Diagrams can be exported to SVG, PNG, or JSON, or copied directly into Figma as editable layers. Developers can also clone the repository from GitHub to host it themselves or modify the engine.

Key Features

  • Diagram as Code (Mermaid.js and type-safe DSL support)
  • Flowpilot AI Assistant for natural language diagramming
  • High-fidelity Figma Export (editable vectors and text)
  • Local-first architecture for maximum privacy
  • One-click auto-layout for complex systems
  • Fully customizable nodes, edges, and themes

Use Cases

  • Software engineers defining system architectures through version-controlled code
  • Product teams sketching user flows without needing to sign up for enterprise tools
  • Designers moving technical diagrams into Figma as editable assets
  • Developers building internal tools using the open-source core engine

Key Features

Diagram as Code (Mermaid.js and type-safe DSL support)
Flowpilot AI Assistant for natural language diagramming
High-fidelity Figma Export (editable vectors and text)
Local-first architecture for maximum privacy
One-click auto-layout for complex systems
Fully customizable nodes, edges, and themes

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Completely free with no hidden costs or subscriptions
  • Privacy-focused local-first storage
  • No signup or account required for immediate use
  • Versatile input methods: visual, code, and AI chat
  • Unique editable Figma export for design handoffs
  • Open-source for customization and community contributions
Cons
  • Lacks built-in cloud collaboration features
  • May require technical setup for advanced code-based use
  • Limited to diagrams and flowcharts, not full design suite
  • AI features dependent on underlying model quality
  • As an open-source tool, support relies on community

Best For

Software engineers defining system architectures through version-controlled codeProduct teams sketching user flows without needing to sign up for enterprise toolsDesigners moving technical diagrams into Figma as editable assetsDevelopers building internal tools using the open-source core engine

Alternatives to OpenFlowKit

FAQ

Is OpenFlowKit completely free?
Yes, it is 100% free and open-source with no pricing tiers or subscriptions.
Does it require an internet connection or signup?
No, it offers a local-first experience where data stays on your machine, with no signup or cloud sync needed.
What diagram types does it support?
It supports professional architecture diagrams and flowcharts via drag-and-drop, Mermaid.js, or type-safe DSL.
Can I export to Figma?
Yes, it provides a unique Figma export with editable vector shapes.
How does the AI assistant work?
Flowpilot enables chat-based diagram editing, allowing natural language instructions to modify diagrams.
Where is the source code?
The GitHub repository is at https://github.com/Vrun-design/FlowMind.