Bubble vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Bubble 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:
Bubble
Build web apps visually without writing code
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • No-code platform for building full web applications
- • Visual programming with database, workflows, and UI design
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Best for you if:
- • 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 |  Bubble |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | API Tools |
Rating | 88/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Bubble | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendWorkflow Automation | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How Bubble and Payload Compare
Bubble
Build web apps visually without writing code
Free tier available · 88/100 score
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Bubble is a low-code backend tool. Payload is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Bubble
Want the highest-rated option?
Bubble: 88/100. Payload: 86/100.
Go with: Bubble
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Bubble
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?
Bubble is a low-code backend tool. Payload is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Bubble scores higher: 88/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Bubble
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 86
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Payload
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Bubble (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bubble or Payload better?
Bubble scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Bubble and Payload used for?
Bubble: Build web apps visually without writing code. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Bubble cost vs Payload?
Bubble is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.