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Directus

Turns any SQL database into a headless CMS with an admin app, instant APIs and automation.

Free plan + paidSelf-hostableContent management systems
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About Directus

Directus is a data platform that sits on top of a new or existing SQL database, such as PostgreSQL, MySQL or SQLite, and instantly gives you REST and GraphQL APIs plus a no-code admin app for browsing and editing the data. That makes it a headless CMS for websites and apps, but also a backend for internal tools, because it never takes over your schema. It includes roles and permissions, file and image handling, a visual automation builder called Flows, dashboards, and AI and MCP features. Directus is source-available rather than open source: self-hosting is free for organisations under a revenue and headcount threshold, while larger organisations need a paid licence, and Directus Cloud offers hosted plans with a free trial. It suits developers who want a polished admin over a database they control. The license terms have changed several times, which some users find unsettling, and bigger companies pay enterprise prices. It runs self-hosted via Docker or on Directus Cloud.

Best for: Developers who want an admin app and APIs over a SQL database they already own.

Pros and cons

What works

  • Works on top of existing SQL databases without migrating
  • Instant REST and GraphQL APIs with fine-grained permissions
  • Free self-hosting for smaller organisations

Why people leave

  • Source-available licence, not OSI open source
  • Larger organisations must buy a commercial licence
  • Licence terms have changed more than once

Top Directus alternatives

See all 8
  1. 1Strapi logo
    Strapi

    MIT-licensed headless CMS with no revenue-based licence threshold.

    66.5
  2. 2Payload logo
    Payload

    MIT-licensed, code-first CMS with similar admin and API features.

    62.6
  3. 3Sanity logo
    Sanity

    Hosted content platform focused on editorial collaboration.

    59.6
  4. 4Keystone logo
    Keystone

    MIT-licensed Node.js CMS that generates a GraphQL API from code.

    57.2
  5. 5Cockpit logo
    Cockpit

    Lightweight self-hosted headless CMS with no subscription.

    55.3

Why people left Directus

In reviewers' own words, from reviews of the apps they moved to. These are their opinions, not ours.

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Directus: common questions

Is Directus free?

Directus has a free plan and paid plans.

Is Directus open source?

No, Directus is not open source. Open-source alternatives include Strapi, Payload and Keystone.

What platforms does Directus run on?

Directus is available for Self-hosted and Web.

What are the best alternatives to Directus?

The highest-ranked Directus alternatives right now are Strapi, Payload and Sanity. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.

See all 8 Directus alternatives