Overview
TheOrgChart (theorgchart.com) is an org chart tool focused on simplicity and ease of use. It offers a clean interface for building organizational charts and has been around for several years. It's a solid option, particularly for very basic org chart needs.
OrgCanvas is a modern org chart maker with drag-and-drop editing, CSV/Excel import, auto-layout, dotted-line relationships, and export to PNG, PDF, and PowerPoint. Free for up to 25 people, Pro for $49/year with unlimited team members.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | OrgCanvas | TheOrgChart |
|---|---|---|
| Drag-and-drop editing | ✓ | ✓ |
| CSV / Excel import | ✓ Auto-detects columns | ~ Varies by plan/workflow |
| Auto-layout engine | ✓ Advanced auto-layout | ~ Basic |
| Dotted-line relationships | ✓ | ✗ |
| Export to PDF | ✓ | ✓ |
| Export to PowerPoint | ✓ | ✗ |
| Export to PNG | ✓ | ✓ |
| Shareable live link | ✓ | ~ Varies by plan |
| Department color-coding | ✓ | ✓ |
| Photo support | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free tier | ✓ Up to 25 people | ~ Check current offering |
| Pricing | $49/year flat | Varies (check current pricing) |
Where TheOrgChart Does Well
- Simplicity. If you just need a basic org chart without advanced features, TheOrgChart keeps things straightforward.
- Established product. It's been around longer and has a stable, if limited, feature set.
- Simple interface. No learning curve — you can create a basic chart in minutes.
Where OrgCanvas Stands Out
- Better import capabilities. OrgCanvas auto-detects columns from CSV/Excel files and supports imports from HRIS platforms like BambooHR, Gusto, and Workday exports.
- Dotted-line and matrix support. Real organizations have complex reporting relationships. OrgCanvas handles them natively.
- Advanced auto-layout. Our proprietary layout engine prevents overlapping nodes and handles large org charts (500+ people) without manual repositioning.
- PowerPoint export. Many teams need to present org charts in decks. OrgCanvas exports directly to editable PowerPoint.
- Flat pricing. $49/year for unlimited team members. No per-person charges that scale unpredictably.
- Generous free tier. 25 people free — enough for small teams to use OrgCanvas permanently without paying.
The Verdict
TheOrgChart is a decent tool for very basic org chart needs. If all you need is a simple tree diagram with names and titles, it'll work. But if you need CSV import, dotted lines, PowerPoint export, or a team larger than a handful of people on a free plan, OrgCanvas offers more value at the same or lower price point.