Gatsby
Directus
Gatsby vs Directus: which is right for your project? Gatsby is react-based ssg with graphql data layer. Directus is open-source data platform that wraps any sql database. We compare features, performance, and pricing.
Start MigrationIt depends — Gatsby and Directus serve different use cases well. Choose Gatsby for Content-rich sites pulling data from multiple sources via GraphQL. Choose Directus for Teams with existing databases wanting an instant admin panel and API layer.
Official docs: Gatsby Documentation
| Feature | Gatsby | Directus |
|---|---|---|
Ease of Use | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Performance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Flexibility | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Cost Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Scalability | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ecosystem | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Detail | Gatsby | Directus |
|---|---|---|
Language / Stack | JavaScript/TypeScript (React) | Node.js / TypeScript |
Type | ssg | headless cms |
Pricing | Free (open-source) | Free (self-hosted) / $99+/month (Cloud) |
Open Source | Yes | Yes |
Best For | Content-rich sites pulling data from multiple sources via GraphQL | Teams with existing databases wanting an instant admin panel and API layer |
Export Method | N/A (destination framework) | REST API, GraphQL API, or direct database access |
The right choice between Gatsby and Directus depends on three things: your team's technical skills, your project timeline, and your long-term content strategy.
These platforms take fundamentally different approaches. Gatsby is a ssg built with JavaScript/TypeScript (React), while Directus is a headless cms built with Node.js / TypeScript. That architectural difference shapes everything from daily content editing workflows to deployment and hosting costs. Both platforms require some technical comfort — consider which tech stack aligns better with your team's existing skills.
From a cost perspective, both platforms are open-source, so the real cost difference is hosting and operational overhead. Factor in plugin or extension costs, developer rates for each tech stack, and whether you need managed hosting or can self-host.
Whichever you choose, migrating between them is straightforward. LeaveWP supports migration between 60+ platforms, so you're never locked in regardless of which you pick today.
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