Looking for Good Alternatives to WordPress ACF
Asked by
carving_block
I'm getting really frustrated with WordPress and some of its design choices. I've got a lot of experience with it and can build almost anything, such as dashboards and APIs. However, I'm eager to try something different that's more developer-focused and uses document storage instead of a relational MySQL database.
I'm searching for a system that allows me to:
1. Create custom collections (like post types)
2. Add various fields (text, number, link, and especially repeaters)
3. Use any tech stack (PHP, Node.js—whatever works)
4. Expose APIs and perform CRUD operations
5. Provide a GUI for creating field sets and styling them.
I've tried out solutions like Directus, Keystone, and Strapi, but they feel way too bloated and lack the flexibility and ease of use that I find with the WordPress ACF combination.
Answers
Have you considered Statamic? It has both an open-source and a paid version, and it includes collections and blueprints (which are similar to ACF fields). Plus, it's based on Laravel, so it comes with a solid API wrapper.
Reply to this answer
I’d say give Strapi a shot. It feels like ACF on steroids! Just a heads up: only go with a document store if you're sure you need it, since I’ve seen it lead to reinventing the wheel when it comes to relational aspects.
Reply to this answer
What about PayloadCMS? It's pretty flexible but I found that it doesn't have that easy GUI for creating fields like ACF does; you have to do that part manually in code.
Reply to this answer
If control is what you want, Django with DRF might just do the trick. You'll have a lot of flexibility and security features without unnecessary bloat since you can keep it custom.
Reply to this answer
If you're looking for self-hosted options, I really like Webiny. Otherwise, Webflow might suit your needs too!
Reply to this answer
Add your answer
Answers are reviewed before publication.
harvest basket: Yeah, I noticed that too! The GUI aspect in ACF is super handy—not having it in PayloadCMS is a bummer.