Strapi vs. Cosmic

What is Strapi?

Strapi is an open-source headless CMS built on Node.js that helps teams create, manage, and deliver content through APIs.

Unlike traditional CMS platforms, Strapi doesn’t lock you into a specific frontend. Instead, it lets you deliver content to websites, mobile apps, or even IoT devices, giving developers complete flexibility while allowing editors to manage content easily.

Its focus is on customizability, developer freedom, and community-driven growth, making it a great choice for startups, agencies, and enterprises that want control over their content stack.

Key Features of Strapi

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• Open Source & Self-Hosted: Total control over data and infrastructure.
• REST & GraphQL APIs: Ready-to-use APIs for any frontend.
• Content Modeling: Define content structures visually or via code.
• Role-Based Access Control: Manage permissions across teams.
• Plugin Ecosystem: Extend functionality with community or custom plugins.
• Multi-Database Support: Works with PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, SQLite.
• Strapi Cloud: Managed hosting option for easier setup and scaling.

Advantages of Strapi

• Highly Flexible: Easily customize models, APIs, and workflows.
• Full Control: You own your code, data, and infrastructure.
• Developer-Friendly: Built with modern JavaScript (Node.js, GraphQL, REST).
• Multi-Platform Ready: Works with websites, mobile apps, and more.
• Strong Community: Large open-source ecosystem and plugin marketplace.

Disadvantages of Strapi

• Performance Tuning: Large-scale apps may require optimization.
• Enterprise Features Locked: SSO, audit logs, and advanced roles are paid.
• Hosting Needed: You must manage your own deployment unless using Strapi Cloud.
• Learning Curve: Beginners may need time to configure models and APIs.

What is Cosmic?

Cosmic is a headless CMS that allows you to manage content in the cloud and deliver it anywhere using APIs.

Just think of it as a content hub that lets you focus on creating and organising your content while it handles the heavy lifting of content delivery.

It’s popular among developers for its simplicity and flexibility. Whether you’re building a website, mobile app, or even a voice assistant, Cosmic makes it easy to pull content into any project.

Key Features of Cosmic

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• Headless Architecture: It deliver content anywhere with its API-first approach.
• User Roles and Permissions: Manage access control for different team members.
• Integrations: Works well with frameworks like Next.js, React, and Vue.
• Simple Content Modeling: Create custom content structures without hassle.
• Media Management: Upload and manage media files effortlessly.
• Builtin Webhooks: Automate workflows by triggering events when content changes.
• Buckets: Organize content into “buckets” to keep everything neat and tidy.

Advantages of Cosmic

• Flexible: It works with any tech stack.
• Easy Setup: Get up and running in minutes with minimal configuration.
• Great for Small Projects: It's perfect for blogs, portfolios, and marketing sites.
• Content Buckets: It organize content smartly for easier management.
• API-First Approach: Ideal if you love working with APIs.

Disadvantages of Cosmic

• Pricing Can Add Up: Costs increase as content needs grow.
• Limited Free Plan: The free tier has some restrictions.
• Not Ideal for Large Projects: Lacks the complexity needed for enterprise-level projects.