Directus is a data platform and headless CMS that connects to your existing SQL database and instantly provides REST and GraphQL APIs plus a no-code app for managing the data.
Unlike CMSs that impose their own schema, Directus mirrors your database as it is, so you keep full ownership of your data and can use it as a backend, an internal tool or a content platform. It can be self-hosted or run on Directus Cloud.
Key features
- Works with PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, MS SQL, MariaDB and more
- Instant REST and GraphQL APIs from your database schema
- No-code Data Studio for editors and operators
- Granular role-based access control
- Flows for automation and event-driven workflows
- Insights dashboards and file management
- AI assistant and extensions SDK
- Self-hosting available on every plan
Who it's for
Directus fits developers and organizations that want a headless CMS or backend on top of a database they control, including agencies, enterprises and data-heavy teams.
Common use cases
- Running a headless CMS for websites and apps
- Building internal tools and admin panels over an existing database
- Creating a backend API without writing server code
- Automating data workflows with Flows
Pricing
Directus's pricing page lists Core, Team and Enterprise plans:
- Core: 3 seats and 25 collections, for evaluation and small builds.
- Team: $588 per month billed yearly ($698 monthly), with 10+ SSO seats.
- Enterprise: custom pricing.
Self-hosting is available on every tier. Directus Cloud adds $89 per month billed yearly ($99 monthly) on Core and Team. A 14-day free trial is offered, and extra seats cost $50 per seat per month.
Alternatives
- Strapi: open-source Node.js headless CMS
- Supabase: Postgres backend with auto-generated APIs
- Appsmith: open-source builder for internal tools
FAQ
Is Directus free?
Directus can be self-hosted, and its plans come with a 14-day free trial; check the pricing page for the licensing terms that apply to your organization.
What is Directus used for?
Directus is used as a headless CMS, a backend API and an admin app on top of an SQL database.
Directus vs Strapi: which should I choose?
Directus works on top of any existing SQL database without changing it, while Strapi manages its own content schema in Node.js.
Does Directus support GraphQL?
Yes. Directus generates both REST and GraphQL APIs from your schema.
Which databases does Directus support?
Directus supports PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, SQLite, MS SQL and other SQL databases.
Can I self-host Directus?
Yes. Self-hosting is available on every Directus plan.