Kirby vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Kirby 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:
Kirby
The flexible content management system that adapts to your project needs.
Best for you if:
- • You need cms features specifically
- • File-based CMS for ultimate flexibility and version control.
- • Highly customizable to fit specific project and client needs.
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 |  Kirby |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | CMS | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Kirby | 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 Kirby and Payload Compare
Kirby
The flexible content management system that adapts to your project needs.
Paid
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Kirby is a cms tool. Payload is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Payload has a free tier. Kirby is paid only.
Go with: Payload
Want the highest-rated option?
Payload scores 86/100. Kirby 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?
Kirby is paid. Payload is freemium. Payload lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Kirby 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
Kirby
- Better fit for cms
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kirby or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Kirby is paid and Payload is freemium.
What are Kirby and Payload used for?
Kirby: The flexible content management system that adapts to your project needs.. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Kirby cost vs Payload?
Kirby is a paid tool. Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.