Front Matter vs Strapi: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Front Matter 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:
Front Matter
Manage static site content and Markdown files directly within your code editor.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • Headless CMS integrated directly into your code editor (e.g., VS Code).
- • Manages content, metadata, and media for static sites (Hugo, Jekyll, etc.).
Strapi
Open-source headless CMS
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Leading open-source headless CMS
- • Self-hosted with full control
| At a Glance |  Front Matter |  Strapi |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Front Matter | Strapi |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsHeadless CMS | API ToolsCMS |
How Front Matter and Strapi Compare
Front Matter
Manage static site content and Markdown files directly within your code editor.
Free
Strapi
Open-source headless CMS
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Front Matter is a ide & code editors tool. Strapi is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Front Matter is free. Strapi is freemium.
Go with: Front Matter
Want the highest-rated option?
Strapi scores 86/100. Front Matter is unrated.
Go with: Strapi
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Strapi
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Front Matter is free. Strapi is freemium. Go with Front Matter if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Front Matter is a ide & code editors tool. Strapi is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Strapi
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Front Matter
- Completely free
- Better fit for ide & code editors
The Bottom Line
Strapi (86/100) is our pick. That said, Front Matter is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Front Matter or Strapi better?
Strapi scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Front Matter is free and Strapi is freemium.
What are Front Matter and Strapi used for?
Front Matter: Manage static site content and Markdown files directly within your code editor.. Strapi: Open-source headless CMS.
What does Front Matter cost vs Strapi?
Front Matter is completely free. Strapi is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.