Payload vs Sanity: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Payload and Sanity 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 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
Sanity
Structured content platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Developer-friendly headless CMS
- • Real-time collaboration built-in
| At a Glance |  Payload |  Sanity |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | 86/100 | 87/100 |
| Feature | Payload | Sanity |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 87 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsLow-Code Backend | Low-Code BackendCMS |
How Payload and Sanity Compare
Payload
Headless CMS and application framework
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Sanity
Structured content platform
Free tier available · 87/100 score
Payload is a api tools tool. Sanity 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. Sanity: 87/100.
Go with: Sanity
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Sanity
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. Sanity is in low-code backend. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Sanity scores higher: 87/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Sanity
- Higher score: 87/100 vs 86
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Payload
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Sanity (87/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Payload or Sanity better?
Sanity scores 87/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Payload and Sanity used for?
Payload: Headless CMS and application framework. Sanity: Structured content platform.
What does Payload cost vs Sanity?
Payload is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Sanity is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.