Mermaid vs D2: Which Should You Choose?
Compare Mermaid and D2 on diagram-as-code, syntax, and integration. Discover which tool best fits your documentation and repo.
Mermaid wins on adoption and Markdown integration; D2 on layout quality and complex diagrams. The choice depends on where you use diagrams.
Mermaid
Diagram-as-code with simple text syntax; flowcharts, sequence, ER; works in Markdown and GitHub.
D2
Declarative diagram language from Terrastruct; powerful layout, visual, developer-friendly.
What are the key differences between Mermaid and D2?
| Feature | Mermaid | D2 |
|---|---|---|
| Syntax | YAML-like; flowcharts, sequence, ER | Own DSL; shapes, containers, connections |
| Integration | GitHub, GitLab, Notion, VS Code | CLI, CI/CD; no native GitHub preview |
| Layout | Automatic; limited control | Powerful layout engine; more control |
| Use case | Quick docs in repo; Markdown-embedded | Complex diagrams; architecture |
What is the verdict on Mermaid vs D2?
Mermaid wins on adoption and Markdown integration; D2 on layout quality and complex diagrams. The choice depends on where you use diagrams.
Which option does MG Software recommend?
MG Software uses Mermaid for repo docs and READMEs. For architecture docs and CI output we recommend D2.
Frequently asked questions
Related articles
Technical Documentation Examples - API Docs and ADRs
Discover technical documentation examples: API documentation, ADRs, runbooks and developer guides. Documentation that keeps working.
Notion vs Confluence: Complete Comparison Guide
Compare Notion and Confluence on flexibility, Jira integration, AI features, and knowledge management. Discover which platform is the best fit for your team.
Confluence vs Notion: Which Should You Choose?
Compare Confluence and Notion on documentation, collaboration, and integrations. Discover which knowledge base tool best fits your team.
Docusaurus vs GitBook: Which Should You Choose?
Compare Docusaurus and GitBook on documentation, developer experience and hosting. Discover which tool best fits your docs.