Payload vs TinaCMS
Comparing two open source alternatives to Contentful and Sanity. Use the comparison below to decide which one fits your needs.
Payload
MITPayload is an open-source, TypeScript-first headless CMS and application framework built on Next.js, Express, and React.
TinaCMS
Apache-2.0A fully open-source headless CMS with Git support, Markdown editing, and live visual preview for React-based sites.
Side-by-side comparison
| Payload | TinaCMS | |
|---|---|---|
| License | MIT | Apache-2.0 |
| Self-hostable | Yes | Yes |
| GitHub Stars | 44,662 | 13,788 |
| Forks | 4,147 | 750 |
| Open Issues | 1,130 | 445 |
| Last Commit | Sep 10, 2026 | Sep 10, 2026 |
| First Released | Jan 5, 2021 | Jul 23, 2019 |
| Categories | ||
| Tags |
GitHub stars over time
GitHub stars over time
Similar open source alternatives
Strapi
Open-source headless CMS built with JavaScript and TypeScript — fully customizable and developer-first. Self-hostable alternative to WordPress and Contentful.
WordPress
Craft.js
React framework for building extensible drag-and-drop page editors. Headless, framework-based approach with full plugin support.
Builder.io
WollyCMS
Self-hosted, open-source headless CMS built specifically for Astro.js with a block-based page builder.
Contentful
Puck
Open-source visual editor for React. Drag-and-drop page builder with a component-based architecture and MIT license.
Builder.io
Directus
The flexible backend for all your projects 🐰 Turn your DB into a headless CMS, admin panels, or apps with a custom UI, instant APIs, auth & more.
WordPress
CometCMS
Headless, simple CMS with a PHP backend and a convenient Vue admin frontend.
Contentful