Directus vs Hygraph: Head-to-Head Comparison

Quick Verdict

Directus is the better pick for teams that want a CMS on top of an existing SQL database. Hygraph is the better pick for teams building GraphQL-first content APIs.

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At a Glance

Feature	Directus	Hygraph
Best For	Teams that want a CMS on top of an existing SQL database	Teams building GraphQL-first content APIs
Pricing	Free open source; paid managed cloud	Free tier with paid plans
Free to Start	Yes	Yes
License	Source-available	Proprietary
Deployment	Self-hosted or managed cloud	Managed cloud
Link	Visit Directus	Visit Hygraph

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Detailed Breakdown

Directus

Data platform that adds an API and admin app to any SQL database

Pros:

• Works on top of existing SQL schemas
• Instant REST and GraphQL APIs
• No-code admin app

Cons:

• BSL license requires a paid license for larger organizations
• Admin customization has a learning curve

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Hygraph

GraphQL-native headless CMS

Pros:

• Native GraphQL API including mutations
• Content federation from external sources
• Strong schema modeling

Cons:

• GraphQL-centric approach
• Lower-tier limits can be restrictive

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Key Differences

• Positioning: Directus — data platform that adds an API and admin app to any SQL database. Hygraph — GraphQL-native headless CMS.
• Licensing differs: Directus is source-available while Hygraph is proprietary.
• Deployment: Directus — self-hosted or managed cloud. Hygraph — managed cloud.
• Pricing: Directus — free open source; paid managed cloud. Hygraph — free tier with paid plans.
• Signature strength: Directus — works on top of existing SQL schemas. Hygraph — native GraphQL API including mutations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Directus better than Hygraph?

It depends on your requirements. Directus is a strong fit for teams that want a CMS on top of an existing SQL database, while Hygraph suits teams building GraphQL-first content APIs.

Is Directus free to use?

Yes, you can start with Directus for free. Pricing model: Free open source; paid managed cloud.

Is Hygraph free to use?

Yes, you can start with Hygraph for free. Pricing model: Free tier with paid plans.

Can I self-host Directus or Hygraph?

Directus can be self-hosted. Deployment options: self-hosted or managed cloud. Hygraph is offered as a managed service: managed cloud.

What are the main drawbacks of Directus and Hygraph?

Directus: BSL license requires a paid license for larger organizations; admin customization has a learning curve. Hygraph: GraphQL-centric approach; lower-tier limits can be restrictive.