Netlify CMS vs DatoCMS: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Netlify CMS and DatoCMS 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:
Netlify CMS
Open-source content management for your Git workflow with any static site generator.
Best for you if:
- • You need cms features specifically
- • Open-source CMS for Git-based workflows.
- • Works with any static site generator.
DatoCMS
Headless CMS for modern web projects
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need content marketing features specifically
- • Headless CMS with excellent image handling
- • Strong GraphQL and multi-environment support
| At a Glance |  Netlify CMS |  DatoCMS |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | CMS | Content Marketing |
Rating | —/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Netlify CMS | DatoCMS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | CMSHeadless CMS | Content MarketingDigital Asset Management |
How Netlify CMS and DatoCMS Compare
Netlify CMS
Open-source content management for your Git workflow with any static site generator.
Free tier available
DatoCMS
Headless CMS for modern web projects
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Netlify CMS is a cms tool. DatoCMS is in content marketing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Netlify CMS
Want the highest-rated option?
DatoCMS scores 85/100. Netlify CMS is unrated.
Go with: DatoCMS
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: DatoCMS
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Netlify CMS is a cms tool. DatoCMS is in content marketing. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
DatoCMS
- Higher score: 85/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Netlify CMS
- Better fit for cms
The Bottom Line
DatoCMS (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Netlify CMS or DatoCMS better?
DatoCMS scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Netlify CMS and DatoCMS used for?
Netlify CMS: Open-source content management for your Git workflow with any static site generator.. DatoCMS: Headless CMS for modern web projects.
What does Netlify CMS cost vs DatoCMS?
Netlify CMS is freemium (free tier + paid plans). DatoCMS is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.