Payload is the open-source, fullstack Next.js framework, giving you instant backend superpowers. Get a full TypeScript backend and admin panel instantly. Use Payload as a headless CMS or for building powerful applications.
🚀 Strapi is the leading open-source headless CMS. It’s 100% JavaScript/TypeScript, fully customizable, and developer-first.
| Metric | payload | strapi |
|---|---|---|
| Stars | 42,214 | 72,026 |
| Forks | 3,666 | 9,679 |
| Open Issues | 684 | 754 |
| Language | TypeScript | TypeScript |
| License | MIT | NOASSERTION |
| Last commit | 2mo ago | 2mo ago |
| Repo age | 5.5y | 10.8y |
| Activity score | 77/100 | 81/100 |
strapi has 1.7× more stars (72,026 vs 42,214).
Both are actively maintained (last commit 62d ago vs 69d ago).
strapi is more established (10.8y vs 5.5y old).
Both are primarily written in TypeScript.
payload is MIT, strapi is NOASSERTION. Copyleft licenses (GPL/AGPL) may restrict closed-source commercial use.
