Payload vs Directus: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Payload and Directus 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
Directus
Open-source headless CMS and data platform
Best for you if:
- • Directus is an open-source headless CMS that wraps any SQL database with REST and GraphQL APIs
- • It provides an intuitive admin app for managing content with full customization capabilities
| At a Glance |  Payload |  Directus |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 86/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Payload | Directus |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 86 |
| 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 Directus Compare
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Directus
Open-source headless CMS and data platform
Free tier available · 86/100 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. Directus: 86/100.
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?
Both score 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Payload
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Directus
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Payload or Directus better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Payload and Directus used for?
Payload: Headless CMS and application framework. Directus: Open-source headless CMS and data platform.
What does Payload cost vs Directus?
Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Directus is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.