Headless CMS
A headless CMS is a content system that stores and manages content but does not decide how it looks; developers fetch the content through an API and display it on a fast custom website, app or other channel. It trades some editing convenience for speed, security and flexibility.
Key Facts
| Examples | Sanity, Strapi, Contentful, Payload, Storyblok |
|---|---|
| Benefits | Faster sites, fewer security risks, one content source for web, app and more |
| Trade-offs | Page previews and layout changes need developer set-up |
| Suits | Growing companies with frequent content, multiple channels or performance targets |
How it differs from WordPress
In a traditional CMS, content and page templates live together. In a headless set-up, editors work in the CMS while the website, often built with a framework such as Next.js, fetches content through an API.
Is it right for you
If your site is small and rarely changes, a traditional CMS is simpler. If speed, several channels or a design system matter, headless is worth it. See headless CMS for growing companies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do editors find headless CMSs harder?
Slightly at first, especially for page layouts, but good set-ups include live previews and reusable blocks.
Is a headless site better for SEO?
It can be faster, which helps, but SEO depends on content, structure and technical set-up, not the CMS alone.
Related Glossary
Need help implementing this in your business?
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