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Tess vs Directus

Data platform over SQL databases (Node.js)

A Node.js platform that turns an existing SQL database into REST and GraphQL APIs with an admin app.

Side by side

Tess compared with Directus
CriterionTessDirectus
ApproachTess owns its storage and schemaMirrors the tables of an existing SQL database
DatabasesPostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, MongoDB, DynamoDB, RocksDBSQL databases: PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, SQLite, MS SQL, Oracle, CockroachDB
APIGraphQL generated from the modelsREST and GraphQL
Review workflowBuilt in, per content typeBuilt with permissions and Flows
AutomationPlugins on every writeFlows (event-driven automation) built in
LicenseCommunity (personal use) / Enterprise (commercial use)Business Source License: free under a revenue threshold, commercial license above

Choose Directus if…

  • You must expose an existing SQL database as is.
  • You want built-in automation flows.

Choose Tess if…

  • You start from content models, not from existing tables.
  • You need NoSQL (MongoDB, DynamoDB) or an embedded database, or AWS Lambda.

Moving from Directus to Tess

Each Directus collection becomes a Tess content type, and its relational fields become RELATION fields. Write them in the tess-transfer YAML format, import them, then copy the items through both GraphQL APIs.

Read the import & export guide

Facts checked on October 20, 2026 from Directus's public documentation (directus.io). Products change quickly: check the vendor's site for the latest features and pricing.