Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Cacoo VS Balsamiq

Compare Cacoo VS Balsamiq and see what are their differences

Cacoo logo Cacoo

A cloud-based diagram maker for companies, teams, and you.

Balsamiq logo Balsamiq

Balsamiq. Rapid, effective and fun wireframing software.
  • Cacoo Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-25
  • Balsamiq Landing page
    Landing page //
    2025-05-19

Cacoo features and specs

  • Collaboration
    Cacoo allows real-time collaboration, enabling multiple users to work on the same diagram simultaneously, which enhances teamwork and productivity.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The platform features an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible even for users who are not very tech-savvy.
  • Extensive Template Library
    Cacoo offers a wide range of templates for various types of diagrams, such as flowcharts, wireframes, and network diagrams, helping users get started quickly.
  • Integration Options
    Cacoo integrates seamlessly with popular tools like Google Drive, Confluence, and Slack, facilitating smooth workflow integration.
  • Affordable Pricing
    Compared to some other diagramming tools, Cacoo offers competitive pricing and flexible plans to suit different needs and budgets.

Possible disadvantages of Cacoo

  • Limited Offline Capabilities
    Cacoo primarily functions online, which can be a drawback for users who require offline access and capabilities.
  • Performance Issues
    Some users report performance issues, such as lagging or slow loading times, especially when handling complex or large diagrams.
  • Feature Limitations in Free Plan
    The free plan of Cacoo comes with limited features and limited storage, which may not be sufficient for professional use or larger projects.
  • Learning Curve
    Despite its user-friendly interface, there is still a learning curve for new users to fully understand and utilize all of Cacoo's features.
  • Limited Export Options
    The tool has limited export options in the free version, which can be restrictive for users who need to share their diagrams in various formats.

Balsamiq features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    Balsamiq offers an intuitive, drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy for users of all skill levels to create wireframes quickly.
  • Rapid Prototyping
    The tool is designed for speed, allowing users to iterate and refine designs rapidly, aiding in quick decision-making and revisions.
  • Low-Fidelity Focus
    Balsamiq emphasizes low-fidelity wireframes, making it easier to focus on structure and user flow rather than getting bogged down in details like colors and fonts.
  • Collaboration Features
    It includes collaboration tools such as comments and real-time co-editing, making it easier for teams to work together and share feedback.
  • Cross-Platform Availability
    Balsamiq is available both as a web application and a desktop app for Windows and macOS, providing flexibility in how teams access the tool.
  • Extensive Library of UI Components
    The software comes with a rich library of pre-built UI components, icons, and templates that simplify the design process.
  • Integration with Other Tools
    Balsamiq integrates seamlessly with popular project management and development tools like Jira, Confluence, and Google Drive.

Possible disadvantages of Balsamiq

  • Limited Customization Options
    Due to its focus on low-fidelity wireframes, Balsamiq offers limited options for detailed customization, which might not be sufficient for high-fidelity design needs.
  • Cost
    Unlike some free wireframing tools, Balsamiq requires a subscription, which could be a barrier for small teams or individual users on a tight budget.
  • Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    While the basic features are easy to use, mastering more advanced functionalities might require additional learning and practice.
  • No Interactive Prototypes
    Balsamiq is primarily focused on static wireframes and lacks features for creating interactive, clickable prototypes, which can be a downside for more complex projects.
  • Performance Issues with Large Projects
    Users have reported performance slowdowns when working with very large or complex wireframing projects.
  • No Mobile App
    Unlike some competitors, Balsamiq does not offer a mobile app, which can limit accessibility for users who need to work on the go.

Analysis of Cacoo

Overall verdict

  • Cacoo is considered a good tool for individuals and teams who need an intuitive platform to create diagrams and collaborate effectively. Its range of features, ease of use, and collaborative capabilities make it a strong competitor in the diagramming space.

Why this product is good

  • Cacoo is a versatile online diagramming tool that allows for real-time collaboration, extensive template options, and a user-friendly interface. It supports a wide range of diagrams like flowcharts, wireframes, mind maps, and more. The ability to collaborate in real-time makes it an excellent choice for teams working remotely or across different locations. Additionally, the integration with cloud services and various other productivity tools enhances its utility for many users.

Recommended for

    Cacoo is recommended for project managers, designers, engineers, educators, and remote teams who require a collaborative environment to brainstorm, visualize ideas, and manage projects through diagrammatic representations.

Cacoo videos

Getting started with Cacoo

More videos:

  • Review - Cacoo Alternative
  • Review - Honest Review: The "Cacoon" Brand Hanging Chair/Hammock/Tent

Balsamiq videos

UX Review: Balsamiq.com - Watch a Usability Expert Review Our Site!

More videos:

  • Tutorial - Balsamiq Mockups: Beginner Tutorial
  • Review - Balsamiq Wireframes for Desktop Overview (Windows)

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Cacoo and Balsamiq)
Diagrams
100 100%
0% 0
Prototyping
0 0%
100% 100
Flowcharts
100 100%
0% 0
Design Collaboration
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Cacoo and Balsamiq

Cacoo Reviews

Top 10 Alternatives to Draw.io / Diagrams.net - Flowchart Maker Reviews
Cacoo has a great suite of productivity apps to help you get things done. Our main complaint is the UX a bit lacking.‍
The 10 Best UML Diagram Tools 2020
As weird as the name of the platform is, Cacoo is one of the best available options when it comes to UML diagramming. It does allow you to have a very sophisticated and sleek approach to the process with the in-built templates and accessory functions.
The Top Free Digital Classroom Management Software and Classroom Collaboration Tools
Cacoo is a free diagram and flowchart creator made specifically for real-time collaboration. This app is perfect for visual learning in the classroom and off-site so long as teachers and students have an internet connection. Cacoo also integrates with other free educational programs such as G Suite for Education, allowing for easier sharing and access to information.

Balsamiq Reviews

Figma Alternatives: 12 Prototyping and Design Tools in 2024
Balsamiq is a design tool that has been available since 2008. It’s easy to use and even boasts active customer service if you need help. The software is beginner-friendly, so there is no learning curve if you’re a newbie.

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Balsamiq seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 32 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Cacoo mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Cacoo yet. Tracking of Cacoo recommendations started around Mar 2021.

Balsamiq mentions (32)

  • Revenge of the Junior Developer
    Usually my own way of working is to use Balsamiq[0] to have a visual prototype to test out flows, Figma|Sketch for the UI specs, then to just code it. Kinda the same when drawing where you just doodle until you have a few workable ideas, iterate of these to judge colors and other things, and then commit to one for the final result. [0]: https://balsamiq.com/. - Source: Hacker News / 2 months ago
  • Three important steps before jumping to the code
    You can still produce something useful even if you’re not a professional designer. For example, you can use a rapid wireframing tool like Balsamiq (my favorite) or Excalidraw. With such tools, you can sketch an idea quickly without spending time on minor visual details. Or, use a whiteboard or good old pencil and paper. Any sketch is better than nothing. - Source: dev.to / 11 months ago
  • Tell HN: My Favorite Tools
    A few apps that are a joy to use: https://ia.net/writer for writing. https://usecontrast.com/ for checking contrast. https://sipapp.io/ for picking colors. https://nova.app/ for editing code. https://cleanshot.com/ for screenshots. https://getpixelsnap.com/ for measuring elements on screen. https://netnewswire.com/ for reading things via RSS. https://panic.com/transmit/ for file transfers. https://usefathom.com/... - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago
  • Ask HN: Best UI design courses for hackers?
    I think the best practical approach for designing UIs is to download (and buy) Balsamic[0] and use that to design UIs. Cut through the nonsense of colours and pixels in the first instance and just lay things out logically and simply. [0] https://balsamiq.com. - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago
  • Build Products that don’t SUCK
    Create a low-fidelity mockup or wireframe of your MVP using tools like Balsamiq, Sketch, or Figma. Or use an easier-to-use tool like Uizard, which also has text-to-design capabilities. Source: almost 2 years ago
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Cacoo and Balsamiq, you can also consider the following products

LucidChart - LucidChart is the missing link in online productivity suites. LucidChart allows users to create, collaborate on, and publish attractive flowcharts and other diagrams from a web browser.

Invision - Prototyping and collaboration for design teams

draw.io - Online diagramming application

Moqups - The most stunning HTML5 app for creating resolution-independent SVG mockups, wireframes & interactive prototypes for your next project

Gliffy - Gliffy is a powerful HTML5 online diagram maker. Create a flow chart, network diagram, UML diagram, organizational chart or wireframe with ease.

Zeplin - Collaboration app for UI designers & frontend developers