Crafter CMS vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Crafter CMS 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:
Crafter CMS
Open-source, Java-based headless CMS for high-performance, scalable digital experiences.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need cms features specifically
- • Open-source, Java-based headless CMS for enterprise digital experiences.
- • Supports DevContentOps with Git-based content repository and decoupled delivery.
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • 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 |  Crafter CMS |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | CMS | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Crafter CMS | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | CMSDigital Asset Management | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How Crafter CMS and Payload Compare
Crafter CMS
Open-source, Java-based headless CMS for high-performance, scalable digital experiences.
Free
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Crafter CMS is a cms tool. Payload is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Crafter CMS is free. Payload is freemium.
Go with: Crafter CMS
Want the highest-rated option?
Payload scores 86/100. Crafter CMS 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?
Crafter CMS is free. Payload is freemium. Go with Crafter CMS if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Crafter CMS is a cms 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
Crafter CMS
- Completely free
- Better fit for cms
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick. That said, Crafter CMS is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Crafter CMS or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Crafter CMS is free and Payload is freemium.
What are Crafter CMS and Payload used for?
Crafter CMS: Open-source, Java-based headless CMS for high-performance, scalable digital experiences.. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Crafter CMS cost vs Payload?
Crafter CMS is completely free. Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.