Directus

Real-time API and dashboard for any SQL database

Directus instantly wraps any SQL database with REST and GraphQL APIs, plus a no-code dashboard for managing content without migrations or vendor lock-in.

Overview

Turn Any SQL Database Into a Headless CMS

Directus is a real-time API platform and visual dashboard that layers a blazingly fast Node.js backend on top of your existing or new SQL databases—no migration required. Whether you're building a headless CMS, admin panel, or custom application, Directus provides instant REST and GraphQL APIs alongside an intuitive Vue.js interface safe enough for non-technical users.

Database-Agnostic and Deployment-Flexible

Supporting PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, OracleDB, CockroachDB, MariaDB, and MS-SQL, Directus works with your infrastructure choices. Deploy on-premises, run locally for development, or spin up a managed project on Directus Cloud in ~90 seconds with auto-scaling and global CDN included. The modular architecture is built to white-label and extend, letting developers customize every layer while maintaining a cohesive platform.

Licensing Designed for Accessibility

Directus uses the Business Source License 1.1 with an additional use grant: organizations under $5M in combined annual revenue and funding can use it freely for any purpose. Larger enterprises require a commercial license, ensuring sustainable development while keeping the platform accessible to startups, individuals, and smaller teams.

Highlights

Instant REST and GraphQL APIs for any SQL database without migrations

Supports PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, OracleDB, CockroachDB, MariaDB, MS-SQL

No-code Vue.js dashboard safe for non-technical users

Fully extensible and white-labelable modular architecture

Pros

Works with existing databases without requiring schema migrations
Database-agnostic design supports seven major SQL platforms
Self-hostable with full control or managed cloud option available
Modular platform built for customization and white-labeling

Considerations

Business Source License requires commercial agreement for enterprises over $5M revenue/funding
Limited to SQL databases; NoSQL systems not supported
Customization and extensibility may require TypeScript/Vue.js expertise
Self-hosting requires Node.js infrastructure and maintenance overhead

Managed products teams compare with

When teams consider Directus, these hosted platforms usually appear on the same shortlist.

Agility CMS

Headless content management system supporting composable, API-first architectures

ButterCMS

Headless CMS and blog engine that integrates via API to let developers add content management to any app

Contentful

API‑first headless CMS for structured content delivery

Looking for a hosted option? These are the services engineering teams benchmark against before choosing open source.

Fit guide

Great for

Startups and small teams needing a headless CMS without vendor lock-in
Developers building admin panels or dashboards for existing SQL databases
Organizations requiring database flexibility across PostgreSQL, MySQL, or MS-SQL
Teams wanting no-code content management for non-technical stakeholders

Not ideal when

Projects requiring NoSQL or document database support
Teams seeking a fully open-source solution without licensing restrictions
Organizations needing out-of-the-box e-commerce or complex workflow automation
Users uncomfortable with Node.js deployment and maintenance

How teams use it

Headless CMS for Multi-Channel Publishing

Content teams manage articles, media, and metadata through the no-code dashboard while developers consume structured content via GraphQL across web, mobile, and IoT applications.

Admin Panel for Legacy Database

Wrap an existing PostgreSQL or MySQL database with instant APIs and a visual interface, enabling non-technical staff to manage records without custom admin development.

Rapid Prototyping for Startups

Launch MVPs in days by connecting Directus to SQLite or PostgreSQL, gaining instant backend APIs and a content dashboard without building authentication or CRUD logic.

White-Label Data Platform

Agencies customize Directus branding, extensions, and UI to deliver tailored data management solutions for clients while maintaining a single codebase.

Tech snapshot

TypeScript75%

Vue23%

SCSS1%

JavaScript1%

Liquid1%

CSS1%

Frequently asked questions

Does Directus require migrating my existing database?

No. Directus works directly with your existing SQL database schema without requiring migrations or structural changes.

Which databases does Directus support?

Directus supports PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, OracleDB, CockroachDB, MariaDB, and MS-SQL.

Is Directus truly open source?

Directus uses the Business Source License 1.1. Organizations under $5M in combined annual revenue and funding can use it freely. Larger enterprises require a commercial license.

Can I self-host Directus or must I use Directus Cloud?

You can self-host Directus on-premises or locally. Directus Cloud is an optional managed service starting at $15/month with auto-scaling and global CDN.

Is the Directus dashboard suitable for non-technical users?

Yes. The Vue.js dashboard is designed as a no-code interface that non-technical users can navigate safely without training.

Project at a glance

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