Payload vs ILLA Builder: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Payload and ILLA Builder 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 7.7/10)
- • 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
ILLA Builder
Open-source low-code platform
Best for you if:
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Open-source low-code platform
- • Build apps with drag-and-drop interface
| At a Glance |  Payload | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | 86/100 | 77/100 |
| Feature | Payload | ILLA Builder |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 77 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsLow-Code Backend | Low-Code BackendApp Builders |
How Payload and ILLA Builder Compare
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
ILLA Builder
Open-source low-code platform
Free tier available · 77/100 score
Payload is a api tools tool. ILLA Builder is in low-code backend.
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. ILLA Builder: 77/100.
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?
Payload is a api tools tool. ILLA Builder is in low-code backend. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Payload scores higher: 86/100 vs 77/100.
Key Takeaways
Payload
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 77
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
ILLA Builder
- Better fit for low-code backend
The Bottom Line
Payload (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Payload or ILLA Builder better?
Payload scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Payload and ILLA Builder used for?
Payload: Headless CMS and application framework. ILLA Builder: Open-source low-code platform.
What does Payload cost vs ILLA Builder?
Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). ILLA Builder is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.