CloudCannon vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between CloudCannon 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:
CloudCannon
A Git-based CMS built for speed, security, and zero headaches, scaling with your website needs.
Best for you if:
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Git-based CMS for static sites, enabling visual editing for content teams.
- • Streamlines content workflows, reduces developer dependency for content updates.
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
- • 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 |  CloudCannon |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | CloudCannon | 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 | Low-Code BackendHeadless CMS | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How CloudCannon and Payload Compare
CloudCannon
A Git-based CMS built for speed, security, and zero headaches, scaling with your website needs.
Paid
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
CloudCannon is a low-code backend tool. Payload is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Payload has a free tier. CloudCannon is paid only.
Go with: Payload
Want the highest-rated option?
Payload scores 86/100. CloudCannon 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?
CloudCannon is paid. Payload is freemium. Payload lets you start free.
What's your use case?
CloudCannon is a low-code backend tool. Payload is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
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
CloudCannon
- Better fit for low-code backend
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CloudCannon or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. CloudCannon is paid and Payload is freemium.
What are CloudCannon and Payload used for?
CloudCannon: A Git-based CMS built for speed, security, and zero headaches, scaling with your website needs.. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does CloudCannon cost vs Payload?
CloudCannon is a paid tool. Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.