Amplication vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Amplication 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:
Amplication
Open-source backend development platform for rapid API and service creation.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Generates production-ready Node.js applications with REST and GraphQL APIs.
- • Automates repetitive backend coding tasks from a data model.
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • 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 |  Amplication |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Amplication | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsLow-Code Backend | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How Amplication and Payload Compare
Amplication
Open-source backend development platform for rapid API and service creation.
Free
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Amplication is free. Payload is freemium.
Go with: Amplication
Want the highest-rated option?
Payload scores 86/100. Amplication 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?
Amplication is free. Payload is freemium. Go with Amplication if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
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
Amplication
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick. That said, Amplication is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amplication or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Amplication is free and Payload is freemium.
What are Amplication and Payload used for?
Amplication: Open-source backend development platform for rapid API and service creation.. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Amplication cost vs Payload?
Amplication is completely free. Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.