Payload
Self-hosted TS-first CMS over Postgres. The new default for owned-stack content.
VISIT PAYLOADQuick facts
- CategorySelf-hosted
- LanguageTypeScript
- PricingOpen source
- LicenseMIT
- Created2018
- GitHub stars33.7k
- Statusactive
What it is
Payload is a TypeScript-first headless CMS built around Node and Postgres (or MongoDB). Strong on type-safety, ownership of the data layer, and deep customisation through code rather than configuration. Acquired by Figma in 2025 and continues to ship aggressively. The default for serious self-hosted briefs in 2026.
Best for
- Teams that want to own the database and the CMS code
- TypeScript-fluent shops where typed schemas across the stack matter
- Projects too custom for SaaS but too small for a Drupal-tier monolith
- Multi-tenant content platforms
When not to pick it
Skip Payload if hosting and operations are not in scope for your team — SaaS like Sanity removes that work entirely. Also skip for very simple content needs where Decap or TinaCMS are simpler.
My take
Payload is the best TypeScript-first self-hosted CMS in 2026. The Figma acquisition added gravity without changing direction. Default for owned-stack TypeScript briefs.
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Read the take →If Payload is your pick — the next conversation is short
The 30-min call is where your CMS choice becomes a real architecture, an editorial workflow your team can adopt, and a price range you can take to your stakeholders. Describe your content estate, your team\'s muscle memory, your timeline. I tell you whether Payload is genuinely your fit.