Which is cheaper, Hygraph or Payload?

Payload is 5.7x cheaper than Hygraph. Hygraph starts at $0/mo, Payload starts at $0/mo.

Does Hygraph have a free tier?

Yes, Hygraph offers a free tier with seats: 3, contentEntries: 1000, apiCallsPerMonth: 500000, assetTrafficGB: 100.

Hygraph has significant switching cost. Payload has moderate switching cost. Payload is easier to switch away from.

Cms

Hygraph

API-first headless CMS with content federation and AI-powered content workflows

Switching Cost: significant

Payload

← More affordable

TypeScript-first open-source headless CMS with code-based configuration and managed cloud hosting

Switching Cost: moderate

You're paying a premium for Hygraph — expect around a 5.7x higher bill compared to Payload.

If budget is your primary constraint, Payload is the clear winner with its more wallet-friendly pricing structure.

If budget is your primary constraint, Payload is the clear winner with its more wallet-friendly pricing structure.

Price Difference

5.7x

Payload is cheaper by $164/mo

Switching Costs

Payload

Lower switching costs for easier migration