Directus vs Sanity: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Directus and Sanity 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 need api tools features specifically
- • 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
Sanity
Structured content platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Developer-friendly headless CMS
- • Real-time collaboration built-in
| At a Glance |  Directus |  Sanity |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | 86/100 | 87/100 |
| Feature | Directus | Sanity |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 87 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsLow-Code Backend | Low-Code BackendCMS |
How Directus and Sanity Compare
Directus
Open-source headless CMS and data platform
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Sanity
Structured content platform
Free tier available · 87/100 score
Directus is a api tools tool. Sanity is in low-code backend.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Directus
Want the highest-rated option?
Directus: 86/100. Sanity: 87/100.
Go with: Sanity
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Sanity
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?
Directus is a api tools tool. Sanity is in low-code backend. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Sanity scores higher: 87/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Sanity
- Higher score: 87/100 vs 86
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Directus
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Sanity (87/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Directus or Sanity better?
Sanity scores 87/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Directus and Sanity used for?
Directus: Open-source headless CMS and data platform. Sanity: Structured content platform.
What does Directus cost vs Sanity?
Directus is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Sanity is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.