Payload vs Contentful: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Payload and Contentful 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:
- • Payload is an open-source headless CMS built with TypeScript
- • It provides an admin panel, API, and authentication out of the box
Contentful
Composable content platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • Enterprise headless CMS with free tier and Basic at $300/month for API-first content
- • Delivers content via REST and GraphQL to websites, apps, and IoT devices
| At a Glance |  Payload |  Contentful |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 86/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Payload | Contentful |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsLow-Code Backend | API ToolsDigital Asset Management |
How Payload and Contentful Compare
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Contentful
Composable content platform
Free tier available · 88/100 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. Contentful: 88/100.
Go with: Contentful
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Contentful
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?
Contentful scores higher: 88/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Contentful
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 86
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Payload
The Bottom Line
Contentful (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Payload or Contentful better?
Contentful scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Payload and Contentful used for?
Payload: Headless CMS and application framework. Contentful: Composable content platform.
What does Payload cost vs Contentful?
Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Contentful is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.