Magnolia vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Magnolia 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:
Magnolia
Composable DXP and Headless CMS for global enterprises to deliver exceptional digital experiences.
Best for you if:
- • You need cms features specifically
- • Composable DXP and Headless CMS for enterprise content management.
- • Integrates generative AI for content creation, asset management, personalization, and search.
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 |  Magnolia |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | CMS | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Magnolia | 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 Magnolia and Payload Compare
Magnolia
Composable DXP and Headless CMS for global enterprises to deliver exceptional digital experiences.
Paid
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Magnolia is a cms tool. Payload is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Payload has a free tier. Magnolia is paid only.
Go with: Payload
Want the highest-rated option?
Payload scores 86/100. Magnolia 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?
Magnolia is paid. Payload is freemium. Payload lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Magnolia 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
Magnolia
- Better fit for cms
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Magnolia or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Magnolia is paid and Payload is freemium.
What are Magnolia and Payload used for?
Magnolia: Composable DXP and Headless CMS for global enterprises to deliver exceptional digital experiences.. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Magnolia cost vs Payload?
Magnolia is a paid tool. Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.