Payload
Open SourceSelf-hostableThe TypeScript-native headless CMS.
4.733K starsAlternative to Contentful, Sanity
Overview
Payload is a code-first, TypeScript headless CMS and application framework. Define your schema in code, get a powerful admin UI and APIs for free, and deploy anywhere — a modern Contentful and Sanity alternative.
Why pick Payload over Contentful
- Own your data instead of trusting Contentful's servers
- No per-seat pricing — grow without ballooning costs
- Payload is open source: audit it, fork it, extend it
- Self-host for full privacy and compliance control
Key features
- Code-first, fully typed config
- Auto-generated admin UI and APIs
- Native Next.js integration
- Access control and hooks
- Self-host with your own database
Pros & cons
Screenshots
Installation
Create a project
npx create-payload-app@latestFrequently asked questions
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