Compare
PageKit vs Ghost
PageKit is a content layer for developers. Ghost is a publishing platform for creators. See how they compare for different use cases.
Feature comparison
Side-by-side comparison.
| Feature | PageKit | Ghost |
|---|---|---|
| Open source | ✓ | ✓ |
| Self-hosting | ✓ | ✓ |
| Developer experience | TypeScript SDK, REST API, MCPAPI-first | REST API, Handlebars themesTheme-based |
| AI agent support | ✓MCP integration | ✗ |
| Target audience | Developers & teamsAPI-first | Bloggers & creatorsPublisher-first |
| Free tier | 1 project, unlimited postsNo credit card | Self-hosted (free)Infrastructure costs |
| Managed hosting | ✓ | ✓Ghost(Pro) |
| Pricing | From $0/moFlat pricing | From $9/mo (starter)Per-site pricing |
| Membership & subscriptions | ✗ | ✓Built-in |
| Email newsletters | ✗ | ✓Built-in |
| SEO | ✓ | ✓Excellent |
| Webhooks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scheduled publishing | ✓ | ✓ |
| Custom domains | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headless mode | ✓API-first design | ✗ |
Why choose PageKit?
- ✓Headless-first — use any frontend, not just Handlebars themes
- ✓Built-in AI agent support via MCP for automated content workflows
- ✓Modern TypeScript SDK for type-safe content fetching
- ✓Flexible — works with Next.js, React, Astro, and any framework
- ✓Simpler pricing without per-site costs
- ✓API-first design for maximum flexibility
When to choose Ghost
- Built-in membership and subscription system
- Integrated email newsletter delivery
- Mature SEO features out of the box
- Simple setup for non-technical users
- Built-in analytics and audience insights
- Established community of creators and publishers
The verdict
Choose PageKit for developer flexibility. Choose Ghost for all-in-one publishing.
PageKit is perfect for developers who want to build custom experiences with any frontend. Ghost is better for creators who want an all-in-one platform with memberships and newsletters.
Best for
PageKit is best for developers building custom web apps with content.
If you want a content layer that works with your existing stack and supports AI workflows, PageKit is the way to go.
Ready to switch to PageKit?
Start building with a content layer that developers love.