Directus

Database-first backend and headless CMS with instant REST, GraphQL and no-code Studio

headlessrest-apigraphqlself-hosted

Websitedirectus.com

CategoryContent & CMS

PricingFreemium

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ABOUT

What is Directus?

Directus connects to a SQL database and generates REST and GraphQL APIs alongside a no-code Studio for managing content, data and permissions. It can be self-hosted or used with Directus Cloud, making it useful when the database schema needs to remain the source of truth.

BEFORE YOU SIGN UP

What you should know

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Connect an existing SQL databaseDirectus works on top of a database schema instead of forcing content into a proprietary model. REST, GraphQL and the Studio are generated from that shared data layer.

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No-code Studio includedEditors get collections, relational fields, asset management, workflows and granular permissions without a separate admin application having to be built.

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Core has clear limitsThe current free Core tier includes three seats, 25 collections and five flows. Directus Cloud hosting is separate and costs $99 per month for Core and Team. Qualifying organizations can apply for the Open Innovation Grant for full self-hosted access at no software cost.

Source available, not open sourceThe current core license is the Monospace Sustainable Core License, so it is source-available rather than an open-source license under the usual repository classification.

COMMUNITY

From the forums

Developers on Reddit often praise Directus for its database-first model, flexible permissions and quick API generation. The tradeoffs mentioned most often are the learning curve around relational content, awkward template or schema deployment, and rough edges in the SDK or type-safety story for more complex projects.

— Community sentiment · Reddit

💬Discuss on Reddit ↗

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ABOUT US

Honest, independent, no fluff.

No paid placements. Just a clear look at what this does, what it costs, and what to know before you commit.

FAQ

Questions, answered.

Is Directus free?＋

Directus Core is free at $0 with three seats, 25 collections and five flows, and self-hosting is available. Managed Directus Cloud hosting is a $99 per month add-on for Core and Team.

Does Directus work with an existing database?＋

Yes. Directus connects to supported SQL databases and exposes their schema through REST, GraphQL and the visual Studio.

Is Directus open source?＋

The current core uses the Monospace Sustainable Core License, MSCL 1.0. It is source-available, but this is not the same as an OSI-approved open-source license.