50 chart types for data visualization explained
Tags: javascript, webdev, datascience, design
Published: 2023-03-07 17:19:34

Charts are a powerful tool for data visualization, but with so many chart types available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. To help, we've compiled a list of the top 50 chart types. From basic to complex, this list covers a wide range of options and is sure to provide valuable insights and inspiration for your next project. Let's dive in!

## [Area chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/area/line/)
![Area chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/9jsldv07zirhf7u4amxm.png)

An area chart represents data as an area between a line and a baseline. It is used to show how values change over time.

##[Area spline chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/area/spline/)
![Area spline chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/hdb6jgrc42gdux49zfox.png)
An areaspline chart is a type of chart that displays data points connected by a curved line, which is then filled with a color or pattern to create an area between the line and the x-axis. It is useful for displaying trends over time or comparing multiple data series.

## [Bar chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/bar/)
![Bar chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/wy4k9lu09hpemy8xz5zb.png)


A bar chart represents data as rectangular bars of different lengths. It is used to compare values across categories.

## [Dumbbell chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/dumbbell/)
![Dumbbell chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/nbe1n5ovsv2e7mkwi9er.png)


A Dumbbell chart is a type of chart that shows the values of a dataset using two connected bars that resemble a dumbbell. 

## [Box and whisker plot](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/column/box-and-whisker/)
![Box and whisker plot](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/pxbn4r14i1yjoadlv20x.png)


A box and whisker plot is a type of box plot that shows the median, quartiles, and outliers of a dataset.

## [Bubble chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/bubble/multi-series/)
![Bubble chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/f9e9v8iadmu4rf5xcb5s.png)


A bubble chart represents data as bubbles of different sizes. It is used to show the relationship between three variables.

## [Calendar chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/calendar/)
![Calendar chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/psw3wohkpjf5q9nyw4nc.png)


A calendar chart, also known as a heatmap calendar, is a type of chart that displays data points in a calendar-like format, typically by using color to represent different values. Each cell in the calendar represents a day, week, or month, and the color of the cell indicates the value of the data for that time period. Calendar charts are often used to show patterns and trends over time, such as seasonal fluctuations or changes in behavior.

## [Candlestick chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/finance-stock/candlestick/)
![Candlestick chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/k9o92vl7yph9n5hd7wqw.png)


A candlestick chart is a financial chart that shows the opening, closing, high, and low prices of a security.

## [Choropleth map](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/geographic-map/us-counties-choropleth/)
![Choropleth map](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/chy33s2ikbcobdzexxmt.png)


A choropleth map is a type of map that shows the distribution of a variable across geographic regions using different colors or shades.

## [Circular column chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/circular-gauge/grid-column/)
![Circular column chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/2zk1jkfzw7pthksosqbj.png)


A circular column chart is a type of bar chart that uses a circular layout to show the values of a dataset.

## [Circular gauge](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/circular-gauge/)
![Circular gauge](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/zhah17qfh2gkl8ex9nmi.png)


An activity ring gauge often nested to compare separate values for progress throughout a period.  Uniquely circular gauges have targets at 100% and can overlap themselves to visualize values greater than 100%.

## [Clustered bar chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/bar/clustered/)
![Clustered bar chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/flfrm0aukl061kgmqdnj.png)


A clustered bar chart is a type of chart used to display data points as horizontal bars grouped together by category, where the length of each bar corresponds to the value of the data it represents. The chart is created by plotting the data on a graph with the y-axis representing the categories being compared and the x-axis representing the values being measured. Clustered bar charts are commonly used to compare data across different categories, where multiple data series are compared side-by-side within each category.

## [Clustered column chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/column/clustered/)
![Clustered column chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/9cs6pfqxz2ur1q8ck7tj.png)


A clustered column chart is a type of chart used to display data points as vertical bars grouped together by category, where the length of each bar corresponds to the value of the data it represents. The chart is created by plotting the data on a graph with the x-axis representing the categories being compared and the y-axis representing the values being measured. Clustered column charts are commonly used to compare data across different categories, where multiple data series are compared side-by-side within each category.

## [Column chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/column/)
![Column chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/yfy9hl7v2dm5t0azpy8z.png)


A column chart displays data as vertical bars of varying heights where each bar corresponds to the value of the data. It's commonly used for comparing data across categories or showing changes in data over time.

## [Combo chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/combination/)
![Combo chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/xrnohfqs42oopo6esdm5.png)


A combo chart combines two or more types of charts to show different aspects of a dataset.

## [Donut chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/donut/)
![Donut chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/tvimvayp66i10wlbnqcu.png)


A donut chart is similar to a pie chart, but it has a hole in the center. It is used to show the proportion of each category in a dataset.

## [Dual-axis chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-features/axis/multi-y-axes/)
![Dual-axis chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/m40a1ew9sr69njrp3ra9.png)


A dual-axis chart is a type of chart that shows two sets of data using two different scales on the same chart.

## [Error column chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/column/error/)
![Error column chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/91ybl7h3fafi7m0cn5rc.png)


An error column chart is a type of chart that shows the variability of a dataset using error bars on a column chart.

## [Euler chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/venn/euler-diagram-of-british-isles/)
![Euler chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/t636vkqpnaejuhr2qlxp.png)


An Euler chart is a type of chart used to represent the relationships between different sets of data, typically in the form of circles or arcs that show the overlap or intersection between different categories or groups. Euler charts are often used in mathematics and logic to illustrate set theory and other abstract concepts.

## [Funnel chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/funnel/)
![Funnel chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/v4ij2mrcts6pytzotli7.png)

A funnel chart is a type of chart that is often used in sales and marketing to represent the stages in a process or customer journey. It is called a funnel chart because its shape resembles a funnel, with a wide top and a narrow bottom. The top of the chart represents the initial stage, while the bottom represents the final stage. Each section of the funnel represents the number of people or items that progress to the next stage, with the number decreasing as the stages progress. Funnel charts are often used to identify areas where potential customers drop off in the sales or marketing process, and to optimize the process to improve conversions.

## [Gantt chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/gantt/)
![Gantt chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/6i7cwvan8eo2ytkz3u2u.png)


A Gantt chart is a bar chart used to show a project schedule. It shows the start and end dates of different tasks.

## [Gauge charts](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/angular-gauge/)
![Gauge charts](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/edlstvbe7eflxdl86chl.png)

![Gauge charts](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/pm9uh14gznq3ytzwx2wr.png)



Gauges are types of charts that show values as pointers on a circular dial. They are used to show the current status of a system or process.

## [Heatmap Chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/heatmap/)
![Heatmap](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/60gqpont3iwpu0m2s55i.png)

A heatmap is a matrix that uses color to represent values. It is used to show patterns in data. Or Heatmap: A heatmap represents data as a color-coded grid. It is used to show how values change across two dimensions.

## [Line chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/line/)

![Line chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/kkyi0g65ze4zx9w4xwxv.png)


A line chart represents data as a series of points connected by lines. It is used to show trends over time.

## [Linear gauge](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/linear-gauge/)
![Linear gauge](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/zggtwuq28hqaiz51oot7.png)

A linear gauge is a type of chart used to display a single value within a defined range, typically in the form of a horizontal or vertical bar with a pointer or marker indicating the value on a scale. The gauge can be used to represent various types of data, such as temperature, weight, or financial metrics. Linear gauges are often used in dashboards or other monitoring applications to provide a quick, at-a-glance view of key metrics.

## [Marimekko chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/variwide/marimekko/)
![Marimekko chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/nydl3j6ps0wtoytquptr.png)


A Marimekko chart is a type of stacked bar chart that shows the proportion of each category within a larger category.

## [Microcharts](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/micro-chart/)
![Microcharts](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/0e2jd6yrsgat7tl1vrbc.png)


A microchart is a type of chart used to display a small amount of data in a compact and easy-to-read format, typically with a small number of data points and minimal visual elements. Microcharts are often used in dashboards or other monitoring applications to provide quick insights into key metrics.

## [Mosaic plot](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/variwide/mosaic-plot/)
![Mosaic plot](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/z9mkozewi6a2wwb48ien.png)


A mosaic plot is a type of treemap that shows the proportions of different categories within each rectangle. 

## [Organizational chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/organizational/)
![Organizational chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/b3vlno42ol7xsxkka673.png)


An organizational chart is a type of chart used to represent the structure of an organization, typically in the form of a hierarchical diagram that shows the relationships between different positions or departments. Organizational charts are often used to illustrate reporting relationships or to clarify the roles and responsibilities of different positions within an organization.

## [PERT chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/pert/)
![PERT chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/q74q0xzyt7dynhrtfbkc.png)


A PERT chart (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) is a type of chart used to plan and manage complex projects, typically in the form of a network diagram that shows the dependencies between different tasks or activities. PERT charts are often used to identify critical paths and potential bottlenecks in a project schedule.

## [Pictogram chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/pictogram/)
![Pictogram chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/tsbmthehhqwzha9xxxbg.png)


A pictogram chart is a type of chart used to represent data using icons or pictures, typically in a grid or matrix format. Pictogram charts are often used to convey information in a visually appealing way, such as in infographics or other forms of data visualization.

## [Pie chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/pie/)
![Pie chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/xqfvwbknsimalmqzxy8u.png)


A pie chart represents data as slices of a pie. It is used to show the proportion of each category in a dataset.

## [Population pyramid](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/bar/population-pyramid/)
![Population pyramid](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/7jljny8lx9ko0bffdoqr.png)


A population pyramid is a type of chart that shows the age and gender distribution of a population. 

## [Radar chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/radar-polar/)


![Radar chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/xbox2403dvoesr58c6tx.png)






A radar chart represents data as a polygon with several vertices. It is used to show the performance of different categories across multiple dimensions.

## [Radial column chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/radar-polar/range-column/)
![Radial column chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/fgkdpkvxa5nxqkkpnpld.png)


A radial column chart is a type of radar chart that shows data as columns radiating out from the center of a circle.

## [Radial chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/radar-polar/area-comparison/)
![Radial chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/84qploafrnlxsfb636op.png)


A radial chart represents data as a series of points on a circle. It is used to show how values change over time. 

## [Scatter plot](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/scatter-plot/)
![Scatter plot](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/fw1dv08q4zorgzc8ehop.png)


A scatter plot represents data as a collection of points. It is used to show the relationship between two variables.

## [Slope chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/slope/)
![Slope chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/k0xi018fhrr8lo6gi0t6.png)


A slope chart is a type of line chart that shows changes in data between two points in time. 

## [Sparkline chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/micro-chart/sparkline/)
![Sparkline chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/ew0uuhmunizrltaim137.png)


A sparkline chart is a type of small, simple chart that displays data trends in a single row or column, typically without axes or labels. Sparkline charts are often used to show trends or patterns in data over time or to compare multiple data points at a glance.

## [Spider chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/radar-polar/area-icon-axis-tick/)
![Spider chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/v3qjumk9a1y3v9fucjto.png)


A spider chart is a type of radar chart that shows the performance of different categories across multiple dimensions.

## [Spline chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/line/spline/)
![Spline chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/rjswkovcfhx2eatrckme.png)


A spline chart is a type of chart that displays data points connected by a smooth curve, which is often used to show trends over time or to interpolate missing data. It is similar to a line chart but provides a more visually appealing and smooth representation of the data.

## [Stacked area chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/area/stacked-line/)
![Stacked area chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/xfjoe5kbmomts3f0t0ve.png)


A stacked area chart is a type of area chart that shows the proportions of different categories as stacked areas.

## [Stacked bar chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/bar/csv-stacked-sales/)
![Stacked bar chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/yhe0c2rw10htbbjtpazh.png)


A stacked bar chart represents data as stacked bars. It is used to show the proportion of each category within a larger category.

## [Stacked column chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/column/stacked/)
![Stacked column chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/2fs28mroscrk7t3pwvrp.png)


A stacked column chart represents data as stacked columns. It is used to show the proportion of each category within a larger category.
Stock chart: A stock chart is a type of candlestick chart that shows the performance of a company's stock over time.

## [Treemap chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/treemap/)
![Treemap chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/hfnredxvx06c1whf5umb.png)


A treemap chart is a type of chart used to display hierarchical data in a rectangular layout, where each rectangle represents a node in the hierarchy and the size or color of the rectangle corresponds to the value of the data it represents. Treemap charts are often used to visualize data related to file sizes, website traffic, or market share, among other applications.

## [Venn chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/venn/icon-groups/)
![Venn chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/0aeoqecl5zl5jzro736g.png)


A Venn chart is a type of chart used to show the relationships between different sets of data, typically in the form of overlapping circles or ellipses. Venn charts are often used to illustrate the intersections and differences between different groups or categories.

## [Waffle chart](https://jscharting.com/examples/chart-types/waffle/)
![Waffle chart](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/3ripbbcsjk9iwjygyp7p.png)


A waffle chart, also known as a square pie chart, is a type of chart that shows the proportions of different categories using a grid of squares that are filled or unfilled according to the data values.

## Conclusion
Data visualization is a critical skill in today's data-driven world, and choosing the right chart type is an essential aspect of effective data communication. By exploring the top 50 chart types generated with a [JavaScript chart library](https://jscharting.com/) I hope you have gained a deeper understanding of the various chart visualization options available and can more effectively choose the right one for your data. Whether you're creating a business report, a scientific publication, or a social media campaign, utilizing the right chart type can help you convey your message in a clear, concise, and visually compelling way.