Netlify CMS vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Netlify CMS 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:
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.
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • 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 |  Netlify CMS |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | CMS | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Netlify CMS | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | 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 Netlify CMS and Payload Compare
Netlify CMS
Open-source content management for your Git workflow with any static site generator.
Free tier available
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Netlify CMS is a cms tool. Payload is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Netlify CMS
Want the highest-rated option?
Payload scores 86/100. Netlify CMS 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?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Netlify CMS 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
Netlify CMS
- Better fit for cms
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Netlify CMS or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Netlify CMS and Payload used for?
Netlify CMS: Open-source content management for your Git workflow with any static site generator.. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Netlify CMS cost vs Payload?
Netlify CMS is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.