KeystoneJS vs Strapi: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between KeystoneJS 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:
KeystoneJS
Headless CMS and GraphQL API framework
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • KeystoneJS is an open-source headless CMS and application framework for Node.js
- • It provides a GraphQL API, admin UI, and flexible content modeling
Strapi
Open-source headless CMS
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Leading open-source headless CMS
- • Self-hosted with full control
| At a Glance |  KeystoneJS |  Strapi |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | API Tools |
Rating | 84/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | KeystoneJS | Strapi |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendGraphQL Tools | API ToolsCMS |
How KeystoneJS and Strapi Compare
KeystoneJS
Headless CMS and GraphQL API framework
Free · 84/100 score
Strapi
Open-source headless CMS
Free tier available · 86/100 score
KeystoneJS is a low-code backend tool. Strapi is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
KeystoneJS is free. Strapi is freemium.
Go with: KeystoneJS
Want the highest-rated option?
KeystoneJS: 84/100. 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?
KeystoneJS is free. Strapi is freemium. Go with KeystoneJS if free matters most.
What's your use case?
KeystoneJS is a low-code backend tool. Strapi is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Strapi scores higher: 86/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Strapi
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 84
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
KeystoneJS
- Completely free
- Better fit for low-code backend
The Bottom Line
Strapi (86/100) is our pick. That said, KeystoneJS is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is KeystoneJS or Strapi better?
Strapi scores 86/100 in our evaluation. KeystoneJS is free and Strapi is freemium.
What are KeystoneJS and Strapi used for?
KeystoneJS: Headless CMS and GraphQL API framework. Strapi: Open-source headless CMS.
What does KeystoneJS cost vs Strapi?
KeystoneJS is completely free. Strapi is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.