Top 10 Best Contentstack Alternatives for 2025

Marketing
Gillian Mays
A cartoon person leaps through screens displaying abstract Contentstack alternatives.

Contentstack is a headless content management system (CMS) that allows users to create, manage, and deliver digital content across multiple channels. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some users have reported non-transparent pricing, a steep learning curve, and difficult integration processes.

Whether you want to know your other options or are looking for a full-on Contentstack alternative, this article is for you. Let's take a look at the top 10 Contentstack alternatives for 2025.

1. Storyblok

The homepage for Storyblok, a leading Contentstack alternative.

Storyblok is the headless CMS for marketers and developers who want to make a bigger, faster market impact. Built to be as intuitive as it is powerful, Storyblok is the best Contentstack alternative for creating stand-out customer experiences with ease.

Part of this is the fan-favorite Visual Editor. In addition to the intuitive interface – just click on the parts you want to edit – it also offers a live in-context preview, so you’re never left wondering what your content will look like on the other side. Even new and non-technical users can get started in just a few clicks.

Storyblok's Visual Editor, featuring an orange background with a smiling woman.
hint:

See what truly intuitive editing feels like with our interactive Visual Editor demo.

Storyblok can also be a good Contentstack alternative if you’re interested in easier integrations. The power of APIs means it’s super simple to swap out any tech or channel, so making upgrades and scaling will always be easy.

That’s not all it does for flexibility, either. Storyblok also offers premade integrations in the App Directory (opens in a new window). Non-technical users can easily apply and use them independently, expanding your functionality with powerful integrations (opens in a new window) like Slack, Semrush, and Optimizely. More tech-savvy users are also free to create their own Apps for truly custom solutions.

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Looking for an experienced partner that knows their way around building top-notch tech stacks? Storyblok has you covered there, too. Check out our partner listings to find your perfect match.

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2. Sitecore

Sitecore's homepage, a Contentstack alternative option.

Some users prefer Sitecore over Contentstack thanks to its robust personalization features and marketing tools. They also report that Sitecore easily integrates other systems and distribution channels. However, it’s worth noting that all of this comes at a high cost and with greater complexity, so it may not be the best Contentstack alternative for those focused on pricing or ease-of-use.

3. Optimizely

The homepage for Optimizely.

If you’re choosing Optimizely over Contentstack, it’s probably for the strong A/B testing capabilities, content optimization, or the relatively easy integration process. On the flip side, there are some drawbacks as well: namely, its higher cost and steeper learning curve due to those advanced features. You might need a little more time to train your team to get the best use of them.

4. ButterCMS

The homepage for Butter, a Contentstack alternative option.

ButterCMS is a reliable choice if you’re seeking a cost-effective solution. Its emphasis on easy setup and content management streamlines the process without losing focus on content creation. Nevertheless, users have reported issues with limited customization options and pricing plans, so it might not be the best choice for big projects.

5. Magnolia

The homepage for Magnolia.

Magnolia is a content management system known for its flexibility and customization options, so it could be a good choice for you if you’re seeking a tailorable solution. The platform's open-source nature also allows devs to directly alter their tech stacks. Despite a generally user-friendly interface, there are still drawbacks to be aware of: high implementation costs and steep learning curves have been reported.

6. WordPress

The homepage for WordPress, a Contentstack alternative.

WordPress is another open-source alternative to Contentstack. It offers a user-friendly interface, customization options, and affordability. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular CMSs out there. However, in addition to the typical monolithic security woes, that also means it’s a popular target among hackers. Make sure you consider the security risks and how it can impact future growth if WordPress is your Contentstack alternative.

7. Adobe Experience Manager (AEM)

The homepage for Adobe Experience Manager.

Adobe Experience Manager (AEM) is next on the list with robust features and capabilities for managing digital content. One of the key reasons you might prefer Adobe Experience Manager over Contentstack is its seamless integration with other Adobe products, overcoming the integration difficulties found with the former. But staying in a rigid ecosystem had downsides, too: using AEM can lead to vendor lock-in, limiting your control over your own tech stack.

8. Brightspot

The homepage for Brightspot, a Contentstack alternative.

You might want to look at Brightspot as a Contentstack alternative if you’re into the idea of a customizable content management system. It offers a range of features and tools that allow users to create and manage content efficiently. Unfortunately, like with other highly technical products, operating Brighstpot may require a more experienced tech team to run properly, which could be a barrier for those with limited technical skills.

9. Sanity

The homepage for Sanity.

Sanity (opens in a new window) is a content management system specializing in flexibility. Users create their own data structure and content models, allowing for a remarkable amount of customization. However, some users find its learning curve equally as steep as Contentstack's. It’s also worth noting that the platform typically requires an experienced technical team to use it to its full potential, so don’t leave your devs out of the discussion.

10. Hygraph

The homepage for Hygraph, a Contentstack alternative

Hygraph (opens in a new window) allows users to create and manage content with customizable layouts, designs, and functionalities. This level of flexibility can be particularly appealing if you’re looking for a more tailored content management solution. However, a few users have reported issues with customer support and a lack of third-party plugins available with Hygraph. Make sure your preferred tools will be compatible before you commit.

Conclusion: What's the best Contentstack alternative?

There's no single best Contentstack alternative. It depends on your plans, resources, and teams. There is a rule of thumb, though: if you’re looking for a simple, small project that doesn’t need room to evolve, a monolithic solution might be right for you. But if you want scalable, powerful content experiences for a growing audience, headless systems will remove the traditional roadblocks and limitations to let you do it.

It can be difficult to choose between so many CMSs, but look on the bright side: that also means there are a lot of options to help you find your best fit. Don't be afraid to reach out to customer service, request custom demos, read case studies (opens in a new window), or experiment with free trials (opens in a new window). All of these can help you get a realistic idea of which CMS is the best Contentstack alternative for your organization.

Good luck – and happy shopping!