Directus vs DreamFactory: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Directus and DreamFactory 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:
Directus
Open-source headless CMS and data platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Directus is an open-source headless CMS that wraps any SQL database with REST and GraphQL APIs
- • It provides an intuitive admin app for managing content with full customization capabilities
DreamFactory
Instantly generate secure REST APIs for any data source, modernizing legacy systems for AI.
Best for you if:
- • Instantly generates secure REST APIs from any data source without writing code.
- • Modernizes legacy systems and enables governed AI access to data on-premise.
| At a Glance |  Directus |  DreamFactory |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 86/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Directus | DreamFactory |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsLow-Code Backend | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How Directus and DreamFactory Compare
Directus
Open-source headless CMS and data platform
Free tier available · 86/100 score
DreamFactory
Instantly generate secure REST APIs for any data source, modernizing legacy systems for AI.
Free tier available
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Directus
Want the highest-rated option?
Directus scores 86/100. DreamFactory is unrated.
Go with: Directus
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Directus
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?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Directus
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
DreamFactory
The Bottom Line
Directus (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Directus or DreamFactory better?
Directus scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Directus and DreamFactory used for?
Directus: Open-source headless CMS and data platform. DreamFactory: Instantly generate secure REST APIs for any data source, modernizing legacy systems for AI..
What does Directus cost vs DreamFactory?
Directus is freemium (free tier + paid plans). DreamFactory is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.