Backendless vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Backendless 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:
Backendless
Backend as a service with visual app development
Best for you if:
- • Backendless is a visual app development platform with backend-as-a-service capabilities
- • It provides database, user management, push notifications, and business logic without code
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • 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 |  Backendless |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 80/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Backendless | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 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 Backendless and Payload Compare
Backendless
Backend as a service with visual app development
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Backendless
Want the highest-rated option?
Backendless: 80/100. Payload: 86/100.
Go with: Payload
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Payload
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?
Payload scores higher: 86/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Payload
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Backendless
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Backendless or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Backendless and Payload used for?
Backendless: Backend as a service with visual app development. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Backendless cost vs Payload?
Backendless is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.