FigCanvas
FigCanvas targets a specific, recurring researcher task, turning a description, dataset or methods section into a figure that looks like it belongs in a journal, rather than being a general design tool. The free plan is enough to try it and even publish with a credit line, but anything commercial, or anything needing SVG or PDF, needs Pro at $12.50 a month billed yearly.
Pros
- Covers three distinct research-figure needs (illustrations, data charts, flowcharts) in one tool
- Can generate a flowchart directly from pasted methods-section text
- Paid exports include editable SVG and 300 DPI PDF, with commercial rights that stay after cancelling
- Free exports may be published in papers and posters with a credit line
Cons
- No operating company or country named in the terms or on the site
- Free plan exports are watermarked, non-commercial and limited to 10 daily credits
- AI-generated scientific figures still need expert review before submission, which the tool doesn't replace