Data visualization is a powerful tool used across countless industries. If you want to build visualization models and leverage data to help decision-makers gain the knowledge they need to be effective, then you need to use the right tools.
But, if you have never worked in data visualization, it can be overwhelming to find a tool that is easy for first-time users to learn while still providing all the essential functions necessary to create the best data models possible.
If you need to find a data visualization tool for beginners, you are in luck. We’ve done much of the legwork and researched the eight top data visualization tools for beginners. No matter what kind of data you interact with, there is a tool on this list that will work for you.
1. Qlik Sense
Qlik Sense relies on cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology to give users a better understanding of how to use their data efficiently. The software is available as a free trial and then a subscription plan.
It is an excellent choice for business users who want lightning-fast calculations. You can also get various Qlik Sense extensions to help with your data visualization requirements.
Pro:
The drag-and-drop interface makes it easy for beginners to build their first data visualizations.
Con:
Qlik Sense’s pricing is less flexible and is more expensive than some of the other tools on this list.
2. Tableau
Tableau is a well-known visualization tool that helps users explore their data and build models that demonstrate insights clearly and effectively. Tableau is available as a subscription service, but there is also a free version known as Tableau Public.
Tableau relies on drag-and-drop functions and easy-to-understand language to help first-time users easily navigate the software. The industry-leading Salesforce company backs Tableau.
Pro:
Engaging storytelling dashboards make data insights visually appealing and more accessible for non-technical individuals.
Con:
The learning curve for Tableau is steeper than other data visualization tools.
3. DataHero
If you want a tool that can handle raw data from spreadsheets or integrate third-party data from multiple sources, DataHero is worth considering. DataHero provides a limited free plan, or you can pay a small fee to unlock the entire library of tools.
DataHero makes it easy to compile, clean, and analyze your data. You can quickly design charts and graphs with DataHero’s simple user interface.
Pro:
DataHero offers dozens of options for linking to third-party data sources and simple data exporting functionality.
Con:
The option to share your dashboard with others is only available with the paid subscription plan.
4. Klipfolio
Klipfolio is an excellent option for businesses and investment firms looking for a tool that provides pre-built data metrics and AI-powered trend analysis. Klipfolio offers options for free or paid subscription plans.
Klipfolio provides hundreds of integrations and a powerful dashboard that is extraordinarily comprehensive in what data you can use to build visualizations.
Pro:
Pre-built metrics and a robust data modeler engine eliminate the need for writing any kind of coding.
Con:
Klipfolio’s free plan has a shorter date range and doesn’t allow downloading reports to PDF.
5. Zoho Reports
Zoho Reports makes it incredibly easy for businesses and individuals to leverage data analytics to make the maximum impact. Up to two users can work on Zoho Reports’ free plan, while the paid plans offer even more options.
Some of Zoho Reports’ many options for data visualizations include cash flows, tracking pipelines, and donor data. The dashboard is easy to interact with and requires no experience to learn.
Pro:
The trial for the paid plans is 15 days long, and it only takes about one minute to sign up for an account.
Con:
The premium customer support costs extra, which makes Zoho Reports expensive for beginners who want expert guidance.
6. Datawrapper
Datawrapper is a fantastic browser-based visualization tool that allows users to build data models such as maps, charts, and tables. Data wrapper is one of the best options for beginners with a guided creation process and well-designed interface.
Datawrapper also offers River, a platform for sharing your data with others and allows other users to reuse your visualizations. There is a free Datawrapper plan as well as paid commercial and enterprise plans for businesses.
Pro:
The data visualization creation process with Datawrapper couldn’t be any easier.
Con:
Some of the custom details like colors, fonts, and formatting isn’t as easy to do as it is with other tools.
7. Google Data Studio
The Google Data Studio is an entire browser-based platform of tools you can use to analyze data to build visualizations. The tools offer Google’s usual powerful functionalities and appealing graphics.
Setting up Google Data Studio is very easy if you have a Google account. After building reports and charts, sharing or interacting with others is simple and efficient.
Pro:
Google Data Studio allows you to integrate Google Analytics, Search Console, and Google Ads data quickly.
Con:
There is little to no tool customization with Google’s data visualization tools.
8. Flourish
Flourish is another browser-based tool. It forgoes traditional data displays such as charts and tables and instead uses a storytelling approach to create powerful data visualizations.
Flourish is a great option for journalists, social media users, and anyone who wants to create attractive graphics.
Pro:
Flourish offers unique visualizations like interactive maps and rotating globes.
Con:
The free version of Flourish does not integrate with Google Sheets and other spreadsheet programs.
So, Which Data Visualization Tool Should You Choose?
These best data visualization tools for beginners will help you transform your data into engaging visual representations. There are options for users who want to create charts, dashboards, infographics, reports, and even visuals that you can post on social media.
Did you recognize any of the tools on our list? Or do you have a different data visualization tool that is your favorite for building data models? No matter what you need, we encourage you to try each of the tools on this list to find the best option for you.
