Directus vs Strapi
Compare Directus and Strapi on deployment, pricing and source model before you shortlist.
Scroll horizontally to compare every column →
| Attribute |  DirectusOther license |  StrapiOpen source |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Developer Tools | Developer Tools |
| Primary focus | Open data platform that turns any SQL database into an API and admin app | Model content and publish it through APIs |
| Deployment | Self-hosted | Self-hosted |
| Source model | Other license | Open source |
| Pricing model | freemium | freemium |
| API available | Yes | Yes |
| Vendor website | Visit vendor ↗ | Visit vendor ↗ |
| ITHub profile | View full profile → | View full profile → |
ⓘ Confirm technical details and prices with each vendor before making a decision. Want a third tool in the mix? Open the interactive comparison →
Start with the architecture and workload
The architectural split matters more than the admin UI. Strapi is commonly approached as a code-centered headless CMS, while Directus exposes and manages content around a SQL database model. That difference affects schema changes, migrations and extension design.
Prototype the hardest schema, permission and deployment change in both products. Verify current licensing and edition boundaries directly because public-source access and open-source licensing are not equivalent.
Compare these first
- Schema ownership and migration workflow
- REST, GraphQL, SDKs and extension model
- Permissions, localization and publishing workflow
- Deployment, database support and licensing
Shortlist Directus when
Shortlist Directus when the project is centered on an existing or database-first SQL model and needs a generated data platform and admin interface.
Shortlist Strapi when
Shortlist Strapi when developers want content schemas and custom behavior to move through an application-code workflow.
Run this proof of concept
Model localization, nested relationships, draft content and role-specific field access. Promote the schema from development to staging, add a custom endpoint and restore the database from backup.
Migration and rollback
Inventory data, identities, integrations and configuration. Test export, import and rollback with production-like data.
Security and operations
Compare access controls, audit evidence, upgrade ownership, observability and recovery procedures.
Total cost
Model licensing, infrastructure, support, data transfer and operator time at the expected scale.
Frequently asked questions
Is Directus or Strapi open source?
Directus is not open source (proprietary or source-available). Strapi is open source.
What is the pricing model for Directus vs Strapi?
Directus uses a freemium pricing model. Strapi uses a freemium pricing model. Confirm current rates with each vendor before deciding.
Can Directus and Strapi be self-hosted?
Directus is self-hostable. Strapi is self-hostable.