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Cloud vs. Self-Hosted
Understand the differences between ChartDB Cloud and Self-Hosted options
ChartDB is an open-source tool that offers flexible deployment options to suit your workflow and security requirements. Whether you choose the convenience of ChartDB Cloud or the control of self-hosting ChartDB, you gain powerful database visualization features.
ChartDB Cloud
Visualize databases instantly in your browser. Best for ease of use and team
accessibility.
ChartDB Self-Hosted
Maintain complete control over your data and setup. Ideal for security and
customization.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ChartDB Cloud | ChartDB Self-Hosted |
|---|---|---|
| Deployment | Hosted by ChartDB (app.chartdb.io) | Host it yourself (Docker, npm) |
| Data Control | Private cloud diagrams | Full control over your data and server |
| Collaboration | Team features (private diagrams, user sharing, versioning) | Share diagrams manually via export/import |
| User Management | User management (multiple users per plan) available in Team and Big Team plans | No built-in user accounts |
| Support | Prioritized support for Cloud users | Community |
| AI Features | Optional, OpenAI API key required | Optional, OpenAI API key required |
| Privacy | Secure cloud storage | Host within your secure environment |
| Customization | Basic UI settings within the app | Modify source code for deep customization |
| Automated Sync | Programmatically sync database changes to diagrams via API (no credentials required) | N/A |
| Embedding | Embed interactive diagrams in documentation, websites, or applications | N/A |
| Cost | Paid subscription plans with a free-trial of 7 days Learn more about pricing → | Free (open-source), infrastructure costs for self-hosting. |
Some features like embedding, automated sync, and team collaboration are exclusive to ChartDB Cloud. Supporting these features locally comes with a lot of additional complexity, syncing, and maintaining a consistent experience across different environments. For now, we’ve prioritized making the cloud version as seamless as possible so we can move fast, iterate, and offer the best experience.
Making the Right Choice
Choose ChartDB Cloud if:- You need a quick and easy way to visualize databases.
- You prefer a managed solution without server setup.
- Team collaboration and private diagrams are important.
- You want to get started right away with minimal hassle.
- Learn more about pricing →
- Data security and compliance are critical requirements.
- You require complete control over your data and infrastructure.
- Offline access is necessary.
- You need extensive customization or integration capabilities.
- Note: Cloud features like team collaboration and private diagrams are not directly available in the self-hosted version.
Start with ChartDB Cloud to experience its benefits immediately with team
collaboration and private diagrams, or consider self-hosting for full control.
Learn more about pricing →