Skip to main content
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

FeatureChartDB CloudChartDB Self-Hosted
DeploymentHosted by ChartDB (app.chartdb.io)Host it yourself (Docker, npm)
Data ControlPrivate cloud diagramsFull control over your data and server
CollaborationTeam features (private diagrams, user sharing, versioning)Share diagrams manually via export/import
User Management1 user (Free/Pro), 3-25+ users (Teams plans)No built-in user accounts
SupportCommunity Discord (Free), Email support (Pro), Priority support (Teams+)Community
AI FeaturesAI Assistant included in Teams plans; optional with OpenAI API key on other plansOptional, OpenAI API key required
PrivacySecure cloud storageHost within your secure environment
CustomizationBasic UI settings within the appModify source code for deep customization
Automated SyncProgrammatically sync database changes to diagrams via API (no credentials required)N/A
EmbeddingEmbed interactive diagrams in documentation, websites, or applicationsN/A
Table Limits10 tables (Free), up to 100 (Pro), up to 200 (Teams) Pricing →No table limits - visualize as many tables as you need
CostFree tier available; paid plans for Pro and Teams 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 →
Choose ChartDB Self-Hosted if:
  • You need unlimited tables with no caps or restrictions.
  • 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 →