Back4App vs Directus: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Back4App and Directus 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:
Back4App
Low-code backend platform
Best for you if:
- • Low-code backend
- • Parse Server based
Directus
Open-source headless CMS and data platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 7.9/10)
- • Directus is an open-source headless CMS that wraps any SQL database with REST and GraphQL APIs
- • It provides an intuitive admin app for managing content with full customization capabilities
| At a Glance |  Back4App |  Directus |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 79/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Back4App | Directus |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 79 | 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 Back4App and Directus Compare
Back4App
Low-code backend platform
Free tier available · 79/100 score
Directus
Open-source headless CMS and data platform
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Back4App
Want the highest-rated option?
Back4App: 79/100. Directus: 86/100.
Go with: Directus
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Directus
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Directus scores higher: 86/100 vs 79/100.
Key Takeaways
Directus
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 79
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Back4App
The Bottom Line
Directus (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Back4App or Directus better?
Directus scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Back4App and Directus used for?
Back4App: Low-code backend platform. Directus: Open-source headless CMS and data platform.
What does Back4App cost vs Directus?
Back4App is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Directus is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.