Did you know that over 43% of all websites still run on WordPress? While that’s impressive, 2025 is bringing major shifts in the CMS landscape. Developers, startups, and creators are now demanding modern, headless, and API-first platforms that are faster, more customizable, and developer-friendly.
In this updated guide, we break down the top open-source CMS platforms in 2025, what makes them stand out this year, and which one we think deserves the crown.
1. Strapi²
- GitHub: github.com/strapi/strapi
- License: MIT
- Language: JavaScript (Node.js)
- Released: 2015
What’s new in 2025?
- New AI content assistant (beta) for content creation and editing.
- Support for edge deployments with frameworks like Vercel and Netlify.
- Official Strapi Cloud now offers 1-click deployment for scalable hosting.
Why it’s #1 in 2025:
Strapi has matured into the most robust headless CMS this year. With a strong GitHub community and frequent releases, it’s the go-to solution for startups and large-scale applications that need flexibility and speed.
✅ Pros
- Developer-first, plug-and-play REST & GraphQL APIs
- TypeScript support
- Easy role and permission system
- Active plugin ecosystem (S3, cloud storage, AI tools)
❌ Cons
- Not suitable for non-tech users
- Plugin UI sometimes inconsistent
2. Payload CMS
- GitHub: github.com/payloadcms/payload
- License: MIT
- Language: TypeScript (Node.js)
- Released: 2021
What’s new in 2025?
- Launched Payload Cloud Hosting with Git-based deployments.
- Introduced real-time collaboration in the admin panel (similar to Notion).
- Revamped UI with drag-and-drop blocks and new visual page builder (beta).
Why it’s #2 in 2025:
Payload has grown fast thanks to its modern, code-first structure. It’s now a top choice for SaaS startups and agencies building custom platforms with tight security and clean backend logic.
✅ Pros
- Full TypeScript support
- Rich text editor and block-based content layout
- Granular field access and auth
- Custom express server included
❌ Cons
- Requires backend skills
- Still young (some breaking changes in updates)
3. Directus — The Visual Data Layer for SQL
- GitHub: github.com/directus/directus
- License: GPL-3.0
- Language: Node.js
- Released: Modern version in 2022
What’s new in 2025?
- Added AI-powered field suggestions and smart validation.
- Real-time data sync with external APIs and databases.
- Extended low-code automation via UI-based workflows.
Why it’s #3 in 2025:
Directus redefines what a CMS can be—it’s a data layer on top of SQL with a beautiful admin interface. Perfect for internal tools, data dashboards, or structured apps.
✅ Pros
- Works with your database (PostgreSQL, MySQL, etc.)
- Elegant UI, excellent for teams
- Built-in WebSockets and automation engine
❌ Cons
- Less frontend-specific support (no themes)
- Needs technical setup
4. WordPress.org
- GitHub: github.com/WordPress/WordPress
- License: GPL-2.0
- Language: PHP
- Released: 2003
What’s new in 2025?
- Introduced Gutenberg 3.0 with better performance and full site editing features.
- Enhanced block-based theming and mobile responsiveness.
- Official support for modern JS frameworks via the REST API.
Why it’s falling behind:
While WordPress continues to dominate in market share, it’s struggling to keep up with developer-first, modern tools. It’s still the best for non-devs and small businesses, but not the top choice for custom apps.
✅ Pros
- Massive ecosystem
- Huge support base
- SEO-ready
❌ Cons
- Requires plugins for everything
- Can be bloated and hard to optimize
👻 5. Ghost
- GitHub: github.com/TryGhost/Ghost
- License: MIT
- Language: JavaScript (Node.js)
- Released: 2013
What’s new in 2025?
- Added AI writing assistant and email automation features.
- Supports membership tiers with Stripe and Substack integrations.
- Native PWA support for mobile publishing.
Why it’s a niche favorite:
Ghost remains the best pick for solo creators, writers, and newsletter publishers who want speed, simplicity, and control without fluff.
✅ Pros
- Fast, lightweight
- Markdown-first editor
- Built-in newsletter and member features
❌ Cons
- Limited extensibility
- Not suitable for complex sites
6. October CMS
- GitHub: github.com/octobercms/october
- License: MIT
- Language: PHP (Laravel)
- Released: 2014
What’s new in 2025?
- Added live component rendering via Laravel Livewire.
- Improved marketplace for premium plugins.
- Now supports modern PHP 8.3 features and Tailwind CSS integration.
Why it’s relevant in 2025:
It remains the top CMS for Laravel developers, combining clean architecture and modular structure. Agencies building secure web apps still rely on it.
✅ Pros
- Ideal for Laravel devs
- Backend + frontend in one stack
- Long-term stability
❌ Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Smaller plugin base
Our favorite in 2025: Strapi
If we had to choose one open-source CMS that’s dominating 2025, it’s Strapi.
Why?
- Massive improvements this year (AI tools, better performance, more plugins)
- Mature headless architecture that’s easy to scale
- Active ecosystem and enterprise support
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