Directus

Directus takes an existing SQL database and automatically creates a full REST and GraphQL API layer on top, plus a visual admin interface for managing content. It's database-first, meaning you design your schema first and Directus introspects it to build everything else. No vendor lock-in, no proprietary data format, just standard SQL and instant APIs.

This approach appeals to developers and teams who own their database and want a content management layer without fighting a closed system. Compared to Contentful or Sanity, Directus gives you more control over the database itself and works with any SQL backend, making it ideal for teams with existing infrastructure.