UMLet
UMLet: A lightweight UML tool with flexible editing and exports, but no collaboration or version history. Ranked #21 of 44 in Diagramming Software by our editors (7.1/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free lightweight UML diagrams.
At a glance
- Editor score7.1 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forFree lightweight UML diagrams
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Founded2001
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source across web, Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Text-based UML editing with custom elements and Java code snippets
- Exports to BMP, EPS, GIF, JPG, PDF, PNG, and SVG
Where it doesn't
- No collaboration features or version history
- Focused on UML diagram types rather than broader diagramming needs
- Desktop, web, Eclipse, and VS Code experiences may suit different workflows
Our verdict on UMLet
UMLet is a free, open-source diagramming tool for creating UML sketches and structured software diagrams. It supports class, use case, sequence, state, deployment, and activity diagrams, making it suitable for developers, software designers, students, and technical teams that need lightweight UML work rather than a broad visual collaboration suite. UMLet is available through a web app and standalone applications for Windows, macOS, and Linux, with additional coverage through Eclipse and Visual Studio Code.
The published product details show a single free, open-source model rather than paid tiers or seat-based plans. Its editing approach is a defining feature: users work with text-based element properties instead of dialog boxes, while palette-based templates, zoom, lasso selection, relation editing, and clipboard copying support quick diagram creation. Custom UML elements can include Java code snippets, which gives technically oriented users more control over reusable diagram components. Diagrams can be saved in UXF format and exported to BMP, EPS, GIF, JPG, PDF, PNG, and SVG. Command-line batch conversion from UXF files also fits repeatable or developer-oriented workflows.
UMLet is strongest when speed, portability, and direct control matter more than shared editing. Its integrations with Eclipse and Visual Studio Code help place UML work alongside development tools, while the web and desktop options cover different working environments. The trade-off is that UMLet lacks collaboration and version history, so teams needing shared review, tracked changes, or coordinated diagram ownership should choose another product. Pick UMLet for free, focused UML sketching and flexible exports; avoid it when collaboration is central to the workflow.
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UMLet pricing
UMLet fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Real-time collaboration | Not verified |
| Diagram types | class, use case, sequence, state, deployment, activity |
| Desktop apps | Yes |
| Offline editing | Not verified |
| Import/export formats | UXF; BMP, EPS, GIF, JPG, PDF, PNG, SVG |
| Editor seat limit | Not verified |
| Deployment | Cloud, Desktop |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Email, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 2 integrations: Eclipse, Visual Studio Code |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | umlet.com |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
UMLet integrations
UMLet lists 2 integrations on its own site.
- Eclipse
- Visual Studio Code
Alternatives to UMLet
- draw.ioA broad, free diagramming editor with strong format support and collaboration options.9.4
- LucidchartA broad, collaborative diagramming workspace for business and technical teams.9.3
- Microsoft VisioA mature Microsoft-focused diagramming suite with web, Teams, and desktop options.9.1
Also Ranked In
UMLet is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Featured on iTechGuides
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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