Grav vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Grav 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:
Grav
Build faster websites with a modern open-source flat-file content management system.
Best for you if:
- • You need cms features specifically
- • A fast, open-source flat-file CMS.
- • Uses Markdown, Twig, and YAML for content and templating.
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • 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 |  Grav |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | CMS | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Grav | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | CMSHeadless CMS | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How Grav and Payload Compare
Grav
Build faster websites with a modern open-source flat-file content management system.
Paid
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Grav is a cms tool. Payload is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Payload has a free tier. Grav is paid only.
Go with: Payload
Want the highest-rated option?
Payload scores 86/100. Grav 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?
Grav is paid. Payload is freemium. Payload lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Grav 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
Grav
- Better fit for cms
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Grav or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Grav is paid and Payload is freemium.
What are Grav and Payload used for?
Grav: Build faster websites with a modern open-source flat-file content management system.. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Grav cost vs Payload?
Grav is a paid tool. Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.