DatoCMS vs Strapi: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between DatoCMS and Strapi 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:
DatoCMS
Headless CMS for modern web projects
Best for you if:
- • You need content marketing features specifically
- • Headless CMS with excellent image handling
- • Strong GraphQL and multi-environment support
Strapi
Open-source headless CMS
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Leading open-source headless CMS
- • Self-hosted with full control
| At a Glance |  DatoCMS |  Strapi |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Content Marketing | API Tools |
Rating | 85/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | DatoCMS | Strapi |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Content MarketingDigital Asset Management | API ToolsCMS |
How DatoCMS and Strapi Compare
DatoCMS
Headless CMS for modern web projects
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Strapi
Open-source headless CMS
Free tier available · 86/100 score
DatoCMS is a content marketing tool. Strapi is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: DatoCMS
Want the highest-rated option?
DatoCMS: 85/100. Strapi: 86/100.
Go with: Strapi
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Strapi
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?
DatoCMS is a content marketing tool. Strapi is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Strapi scores higher: 86/100 vs 85/100.
Key Takeaways
Strapi
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 85
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
DatoCMS
- Better fit for content marketing
The Bottom Line
Strapi (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DatoCMS or Strapi better?
Strapi scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are DatoCMS and Strapi used for?
DatoCMS: Headless CMS for modern web projects. Strapi: Open-source headless CMS.
What does DatoCMS cost vs Strapi?
DatoCMS is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Strapi is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.