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Strapi

Open-source headless CMS for developers

open sourceupdated Apr 21, 2026

Strapi is the leading open-source headless CMS with 65K+ GitHub stars providing a customizable API-first content management system. Auto-generates REST and GraphQL APIs from content types defined through a visual builder. Features role-based access control, media library, internationalization, draft/publish workflow, and a plugin marketplace. Built with Node.js and supports PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, and MariaDB. Self-hostable with Strapi Cloud also available.

Strapi is the most popular open-source headless CMS with 65K+ stars, providing a content management backend that auto-generates APIs from content type definitions.

The admin panel includes a visual content type builder, media library, RBAC, i18n support, and draft/publish workflows. REST and GraphQL APIs are generated automatically with filtering, sorting, and pagination.

Built with Node.js, supporting PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, and MariaDB. Plugin marketplace extends functionality with SEO, email, analytics, and custom integrations.

Self-hostable anywhere Docker or Node.js runs. Strapi Cloud provides managed hosting. Enterprise features include SSO, audit logs, and review workflows.

Pricing

Free open-source / Cloud from $29/mo / Enterprise custom

Platforms

Self-hosted, Docker, Node.js, Strapi Cloud

Categories

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Comparisons

Payload CMS vs Strapi — Code-First Next.js Framework vs Visual Headless CMS Platform

Payload CMS and Strapi are the two leading open-source headless CMS platforms in the Node.js ecosystem. Payload installs directly into Next.js applications with a code-first approach and a local API that bypasses HTTP overhead entirely. Strapi offers a polished admin panel with visual schema building and a plugin marketplace exceeding five hundred extensions. The choice hinges on whether you want an embedded developer framework or a standalone content platform.

Directus vs Strapi — Database-First Platform vs Schema-Driven CMS

Directus and Strapi are the two most popular open-source headless CMS platforms, but their architectures differ fundamentally. Directus wraps any existing SQL database without modifying its schema, while Strapi generates its own database structure from content type definitions. This architectural choice cascades into every aspect of how you build, deploy, and maintain your application.

DirectusStrapi

Strapi vs Sanity vs Contentful — Headless CMS Comparison

Three leading headless CMS platforms for managing content via API. Strapi is the most popular open-source option with 65K+ stars and full self-hosting. Sanity provides a composable content platform with real-time collaboration. Contentful is the enterprise standard used by Spotify, Vodafone, and BMW.

FAQ

What is Strapi?

Strapi is the leading open-source headless CMS with 65K+ GitHub stars providing a customizable API-first content management system. Auto-generates REST and GraphQL APIs from content types defined through a visual builder. Features role-based access control, media library, internationalization, draft/publish workflow, and a plugin marketplace. Built with Node.js and supports PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, and MariaDB. Self-hostable with Strapi Cloud also available.

Is Strapi free?

Yes — Strapi is open source and free to use. Free open-source / Cloud from $29/mo / Enterprise custom

Is Strapi open source?

Yes — Strapi is open source.

What are the best Strapi alternatives?

The top editor-verified Strapi alternatives are Directus, OpenDataLoader PDF.