Builder.io vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Builder.io 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:
Builder.io
Visual headless CMS and page builder
Best for you if:
- • You need ui/ux design features specifically
- • Builder.io is a visual development platform with AI-powered design-to-code
- • It enables visual editing for any tech stack with component-based architecture
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • 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 |  Builder.io |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | UI/UX Design | API Tools |
Rating | 84/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Builder.io | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | UI/UX DesignLanding Pages | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How Builder.io and Payload Compare
Builder.io
Visual headless CMS and page builder
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Builder.io is a ui/ux design tool. Payload is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Builder.io
Want the highest-rated option?
Builder.io: 84/100. 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?
Builder.io is a ui/ux design tool. Payload is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Payload scores higher: 86/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Payload
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Builder.io
- Better fit for ui/ux design
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Builder.io or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Builder.io and Payload used for?
Builder.io: Visual headless CMS and page builder. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Builder.io cost vs Payload?
Builder.io is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.