TikZ Editor: WYSIWYG editor for creating LaTeX figures without code

What it does

TikZ Editor is a visual editor for creating TikZ diagrams, which are drawings embedded in LaTeX documents. Instead of writing code like \draw[->] (0,0) -- (1,2); to position lines, shapes, and text, users can drag and resize elements on a canvas. The underlying TikZ code updates in real time as edits are made, and the formatting remains intact.

Who it is for

The tool targets academics and researchers who use LaTeX to write papers and need to include technical diagrams. Currently, these users typically hand-code TikZ commands, then iterate by adjusting coordinates and recompiling repeatedly until the figure looks correct. TikZ Editor reduces this friction by offering immediate visual feedback.

Pricing

The site does not show prices.

How it stands out

TikZ differs from SVG editors because it supports procedural features like loops and complex LaTeX math notation. Most graphical diagram tools export to formats like PNG or SVG, but TikZ Editor preserves the source code, allowing users to keep editing in both visual and text modes. The tool runs on the web and as a desktop application. Being open source is notable in a category often dominated by proprietary tools.

What a founder should check

First, understand how much time TikZ users actually spend wrestling with code. The value proposition assumes coordinate tweaking is a major pain point. Talk to 20 LaTeX users to see if they would genuinely adopt a WYSIWYG editor, or if they prefer the control and reproducibility of hand-coded figures. Some researchers may distrust generated code or fear losing fine-grained control.

Second, investigate switching costs. Users who have built up libraries of TikZ code over years may not migrate unless the tool preserves and improves those assets. Test whether the editor handles complex, real-world diagrams from published papers without breaking formatting or requiring cleanup.

Third, evaluate the moat. Competitors like Overleaf (which offers a visual editor alongside code) and native LaTeX IDEs already serve this audience. If Overleaf adds better TikZ support, or if Inkscape and Asymptote users find the exports sufficient, differentiation matters. The open-source nature is a strength for adoption but may not prevent forking or commoditization.

Thinking of building something like this?

Every launch here is a competitor to somebody's idea. If yours is close, check it against the market before you build: the Full Check names the rivals, the prices and the gaps.