Headless CMS Architecture vs Decoupled CMS: What’s the Difference?

If you’re taking your first steps in transitioning to headless architecture, the difference between headless and decoupled content management systems (CMSs) may seem non-existent. And it’s understandable. When you’re reading about headless CMSes, the word “decoupled” pops up constantly.
However, these two types of CMSs aren’t the same at all. We can attest to the headless vs decoupled CMS differences thanks to our first-hand experience as a headless commerce development company with both.
Today, let’s dive deeply into these concepts, their differences, pros and cons, and their use cases.
Before comparing headless CMS vs decoupled CMS, we need to be on the same page about what both are. Let’s start with a comprehensive overview of the headless CMS architecture.
Headless CMSs are frontend agnostic: you can use them to deliver content to any device with an internet connection.
They achieve this agnosticism by decoupling (i.e., separating) the presentation layer (frontend) from the backend (the CMS). There’s no frontend “by default” in a headless CMS; you can use it for any presentation layers and channels, existing and future ones.
Headless CMSs use APIs to publish content. The content comes in the raw format, and the target channel determines how it will be displayed.
Popular headless CMSs include ContentStack, DatoCMS, and Strapi. For example, we used the latter in developing headless e-commerce platforms for OURA and Ouragins.
Here are four arguments for choosing a headless CMS for your project:
However, be ready to tackle these challenges:
Headless architecture is a worthy upgrade for traditional e-commerce projects. For one, this approach, headless commerce, allows you to build quality omni-channel customer experiences across an unlimited range of channels. And that’s not the only benefit of headless commerce.
To reap the most out of this approach, headless commerce solutions need to include a headless CMS. And that’s why e-commerce is the main use case for this type of CMSs.
Now, let’s define what a decoupled CMS is, how it differs from its headless counterparts, its pros and cons, and its use cases.
A decoupled CMS also separates the frontend from the backend. That’s a step forward from the traditional CMS, where the two are intertwined. It’s because this coupling creates several restrictions on media types, channels, and redesign speed.
However, decoupled CMSs can still manage the presentation layer using in-built features. So while it’s optional, it’s a major headless CMS vs decoupled CMS difference.
Headless CMSs are API-first and can’t determine how the content is displayed at all. Decoupled CMSs, however, give you a choice between managing the frontend within the CMS or using APIs to just push the data to it.
Popular traditional CMSs like WordPress and Drupal now allow decoupling the frontend and backend.
Here are four reasons why you may want to consider switching to a decoupled CMS:
However, a decoupled CMS comes with specific challenges and limitations you’ll need to take into account:
As decoupled CMSs don’t require as much investment and development experience as their headless alternatives, they’re best for:
So, what’s the difference between decoupled and headless CMSs? In a nutshell, headless architecture means you’re truly unbound by the frontend. Your CMS will only push the data to it, and the frontend will handle how it’s displayed. Decoupled CMSs, on the other hand, allow you to manage your frontend within it – although it’s optional.
Headless CMSs are perfect for e-commerce, where omnichannel customer experiences matter – a lot. On the other hand, they require more investment in setting up the infrastructure, developing and continuously improving frontends, and onboarding.
Wondering if a headless CMS is a right move for your business? We’d be happy to discuss headless commerce solutions we can deliver for you. Drop us a line and we’ll get back to you within a day to talk about your needs.
Long story short, it is sine the Contentful CMS is API-first and frontend agnostic. However, the Contentful team prefers the term “composable content platform” instead of a content management system to describe the product. The reason is it allows you to create once and continuously reuse assets and content elements as building blocks for various presentation layers.
The answer depends on your needs. If you’re running a small project without a development team outside of the e-commerce industry, a decoupled CMS is likely to be a better option for you. However, e-commerce businesses would benefit significantly from headless commerce. A headless CMS is a must-use in such a case.
WordPress, Drupal, and Sitecore are all traditional CMSs that allow decoupling the frontend from the backend. To use them as decoupled CMSs, you must install an extension or a plugin (e.g., WPGraphQL for WordPress).
Content Marketing Specialist at DigitalSuits
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