Payload vs Backendless: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Payload and Backendless 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:
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • Payload is an open-source headless CMS built with TypeScript
- • It provides an admin panel, API, and authentication out of the box
Backendless
Backend as a service with visual app development
Best for you if:
- • Backendless is a visual app development platform with backend-as-a-service capabilities
- • It provides database, user management, push notifications, and business logic without code
| At a Glance |  Payload |  Backendless |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 86/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Payload | Backendless |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsLow-Code Backend | API ToolsLow-Code Backend |
How Payload and Backendless Compare
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Backendless
Backend as a service with visual app development
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Payload
Want the highest-rated option?
Payload: 86/100. Backendless: 80/100.
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?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Payload scores higher: 86/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Payload
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Backendless
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Payload or Backendless better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Payload and Backendless used for?
Payload: Headless CMS and application framework. Backendless: Backend as a service with visual app development.
What does Payload cost vs Backendless?
Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Backendless is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.