Agility CMS vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Agility CMS and Payload comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Agility CMS
Empower teams to launch digital experiences faster with intuitive tools and flexible integrations.
Best for you if:
- • You need cms features specifically
- • Enterprise-grade Composable Headless CMS with page management.
- • Offers flexible content modeling, robust security, and guaranteed uptime.
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Payload is an open-source headless CMS built with TypeScript
- • It provides an admin panel, API, and authentication out of the box
| At a Glance |  Agility CMS |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | CMS | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Agility CMS | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | CMSWebsite Builders | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How Agility CMS and Payload Compare
Agility CMS
Empower teams to launch digital experiences faster with intuitive tools and flexible integrations.
Paid
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Agility CMS is a cms tool. Payload is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Payload has a free tier. Agility CMS is paid only.
Go with: Payload
Want the highest-rated option?
Payload scores 86/100. Agility CMS is unrated.
Go with: Payload
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Payload
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Agility CMS is paid. Payload is freemium. Payload lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Agility CMS is a cms tool. Payload is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Payload
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Agility CMS
- Better fit for cms
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Agility CMS or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Agility CMS is paid and Payload is freemium.
What are Agility CMS and Payload used for?
Agility CMS: Empower teams to launch digital experiences faster with intuitive tools and flexible integrations.. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Agility CMS cost vs Payload?
Agility CMS is a paid tool. Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.