Outstatic vs Payload: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Outstatic 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:
Outstatic
A static site CMS for Next.js with AI completion and no database.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need cms features specifically
- • Static CMS for Next.js websites.
- • No database required, quick 5-minute setup.
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 |  Outstatic |  Payload |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | CMS | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Outstatic | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | 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 Outstatic and Payload Compare
Outstatic
A static site CMS for Next.js with AI completion and no database.
Free
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Outstatic is a cms tool. Payload is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Outstatic is free. Payload is freemium.
Go with: Outstatic
Want the highest-rated option?
Payload scores 86/100. Outstatic 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?
Outstatic is free. Payload is freemium. Go with Outstatic if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Outstatic 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
Outstatic
- Completely free
- Better fit for cms
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick. That said, Outstatic is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Outstatic or Payload better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Outstatic is free and Payload is freemium.
What are Outstatic and Payload used for?
Outstatic: A static site CMS for Next.js with AI completion and no database.. Payload: Headless CMS and application framework.
What does Outstatic cost vs Payload?
Outstatic is completely free. Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.