An open-source data platform that turns any SQL database into a headless CMS, API, and admin panel with real-time collaboration.
Directus is an open-source data platform that instantly turns any SQL database into a REST and GraphQL API with a dynamic admin interface. It solves the problem of building custom backends for applications by providing instant APIs, content management, and granular permissions without modifying your database schema. Developers use it as a flexible backend for headless CMS implementations, internal admin panels, or custom applications.
Full-stack developers, content teams, and organizations needing a customizable backend for web/mobile apps, headless CMS implementations, or internal data management tools without vendor lock-in.
Directus stands out by being completely database-agnostic, preserving your existing SQL schema while providing modern tooling. Unlike SaaS alternatives, it offers complete data ownership, extensibility through custom code, and the ability to self-host on your infrastructure.
The flexible backend for all your projects 🐰 Turn your DB into a headless CMS, admin panels, or apps with a custom UI, instant APIs, auth & more.
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Works with PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, and other SQL databases without altering schemas, making it easy to integrate with existing systems.
Auto-generates REST and GraphQL APIs with real-time subscriptions and relational querying, drastically reducing backend development time.
Offers configurable access controls per collection, field, and action, enabling secure multi-tenant applications and internal tools.
Supports custom modules, interfaces, and endpoints via JavaScript/TypeScript, allowing deep customization beyond the core features.
Only supports SQL databases, excluding popular NoSQL options, which limits use cases for document-based or unstructured data.
Requires setting up and maintaining infrastructure, which can be burdensome for teams without DevOps expertise or resources.
Creating custom extensions involves JavaScript/TypeScript development, which may be steep for non-developers or those new to the platform.
Community Help Board is an open-source alternative to the following products:
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Sanity is a headless content management system (CMS) that allows developers to structure content with real-time APIs and a customizable editing environment called Sanity Studio.
Contentful is a headless content management system (CMS) that enables developers to manage and deliver content across multiple platforms via APIs.
Hasura is an open-source GraphQL engine that instantly provides real-time GraphQL APIs over PostgreSQL databases with built-in authorization and event triggers.