Blitz vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Blitz 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:
Blitz
The missing fullstack toolkit for Next.js, enabling rapid development and scaling of web applications.
Best for you if:
- • Fullstack framework built on Next.js for rapid web application development.
- • Features typesafe RPC API, robust authentication, and extensive code generation.
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
- • 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 |  Blitz |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Blitz | 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 | API ToolsLow-Code Backend | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How Blitz and Payload Compare
Blitz
The missing fullstack toolkit for Next.js, enabling rapid development and scaling of web applications.
Paid
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Payload has a free tier. Blitz is paid only.
Go with: Payload
Want the highest-rated option?
Payload scores 86/100. Blitz 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?
Blitz is paid. Payload is freemium. Payload lets you start free.
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
Blitz
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Blitz or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Blitz is paid and Payload is freemium.
What are Blitz and Payload used for?
Blitz: The missing fullstack toolkit for Next.js, enabling rapid development and scaling of web applications.. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Blitz cost vs Payload?
Blitz is a paid tool. Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.