DevPick

Best Payload CMS Alternatives

Looking for a different headless cms solution? These are the most trusted alternatives to Payload CMS based on features, pricing, and use-case fit.

Why teams look for alternatives

  • - Requires Node.js hosting
  • - Newer/smaller community
  • - Less non-technical friendly

Quick comparison

ToolBest ForFree TierStarting Price
Sanity
Composable content cloud
Complex content modelsYesFreeTry It
Contentful
Enterprise headless CMS
Enterprise teamsYesFreeTry It
Strapi
Open source headless CMS
Budget-conscious teamsYesFreeTry It

Payload CMS alternative picks

Sanity

Composable content cloud

Free tier

Sanity is the most flexible headless CMS. Best for teams with complex content needs and developer resources.

Complex content modelsDeveloper teamsCustom workflows

Contentful

Enterprise headless CMS

Free tier

Contentful is the enterprise standard for headless CMS. Reliable and polished, but expensive for smaller teams.

Enterprise teamsLarge content operationsMulti-brand companies

Strapi

Open source headless CMS

Free tier

Strapi is the best free option and perfect for teams wanting full control. Self-hosting adds complexity but saves cost.

Budget-conscious teamsSelf-hosting requirementsCustom functionality

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