Heimer
Heimer: A focused, open-source map editor with useful essentials and limited collaboration scope. Ranked #64 of 72 in Mind Mapping Software by our editors (3.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for windows and Linux users wanting a lightweight map editor.
At a glance
- Editor score3.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forWindows and Linux users wanting a lightweight map editor
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free GPLv3 open-source desktop application
- Automatic layout, autosave, and full undo/redo
- PNG and SVG export with XML-based ALZ file support
Where it doesn't
- Available only for Windows and Linux
- No integrations, collaboration, AI, or presentation mode
- Narrower feature set than broader mind mapping platforms
Our verdict on Heimer
Heimer is a free desktop application for creating mind maps and other diagrams. Written in Qt, it targets users on Linux and Windows who want a lightweight editor rather than a broader collaborative workspace. Its core toolkit covers an adjustable grid, automatic layout optimization, node text, edge labels, zoom controls, and full undo and redo. Maps can be saved and loaded in XML-based ALZ files, giving the application a defined file format for ongoing desktop work.
The pricing model is straightforward: Heimer is free, GPLv3-licensed, open-source software. The published product details describe Linux packages and Windows installers, with no paid tiers or feature gates identified. Its strongest functional area is focused map creation: automatic layout optimization can organize diagrams, while autoload and autosave support continuity between sessions. PNG and SVG export also make it possible to take finished maps beyond the editor in two stated formats. This combination suits users who value a compact desktop tool with essential editing and export capabilities.
Heimer’s scope is intentionally narrow. It covers Windows and Linux, but not broader platform access, and it does not provide integrations, collaboration, AI features, or presentation mode. That makes it a sensible choice for individual desktop users who need structured maps, labels, layout assistance, and file export without a paid subscription. Teams that need shared editing, connected workflows, presentation features, or a wider ecosystem should choose an alternative with those capabilities.
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Heimer pricing
Heimer fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | linux, windows |
| Export formats | PNG, SVG |
| Real-time collaboration | Not verified |
| Offline mode | Not verified |
| AI assistance | Not verified |
| Presentation mode | Not verified |
| Collaborator limit | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, Linux |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Heimer
- XmindA flexible mind-mapping workspace with AI, presentations, collaboration, and broad exports.9.3
- MindomoA broad mind-mapping workspace with AI, collaboration, planning, and multi-platform access.9.2
- MindMeisterA collaborative mind mapping workspace with AI generation, presentations, exports, and mobile apps.9.1
Also Ranked In
Heimer is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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