Grav

Web & e-commerce

Free self-hostedEditorial overview
A CLOSER LOOK

What is Grav?

Grav is a flat-file content management system that stores website content without requiring a separate database. Markdown pages, templates and plugins make it suitable for smaller sites whose owners prefer files that can be backed up or versioned directly.

Markdown pages

Flat-file storage

Twig templates

Plugin manager

Is it a good fit?

Best suited to

Documentation or content sites with a file-oriented workflow.

Before you choose

Advanced site behavior may require theme and plugin development.

Editorial assessment based on the provider’s published information. Our method

Know what you're signing up for.

Grav can be used under MIT terms without a software subscription. Self-hosted flat-file CMS; PHP hosting and any premium themes are separate. Deployment, maintenance and any external services remain the user’s responsibility.

Self-hosted flat-file CMS; PHP hosting and any premium themes are separate.

Check current official pricing

The useful parts. The trade-offs.

Why consider it

Content files are easy to version and back up

No separate database service is needed

What to keep in mind

File-based workflows may challenge some editors

Complex features depend on plugins or custom development

How to use it well

Create a simple content hierarchy and write a few representative Markdown pages before expanding the site. Choose a theme that handles those page types well, then use configuration files to keep navigation and presentation consistent.

Back up content, configuration and theme customizations together. The absence of a database simplifies one part of operations, but the PHP runtime and extensions still need updates. Evaluate an administrative interface if nontechnical editors will maintain the site regularly.

A few things you might be wondering.

Is Grav free?

Grav can be used under MIT terms without a software subscription. Self-hosted flat-file CMS; PHP hosting and any premium themes are separate. Deployment, maintenance and any external services remain the user’s responsibility.

Does Grav require a database?

No. Its core uses a flat-file content model.

Which content format does Grav use?

Markdown is the primary page-authoring format, with YAML configuration and Twig templates.

Where can I check the latest prices?

Use the provider link on this page. Billing period, location, team size, promotions, taxes, and optional extras may affect the amount you pay.

How should I compare this tool with alternatives?

Choose tools for the same task, then compare their feature limits, platform support, and total cost for your team. The Compare button helps you keep a shortlist.

Are the user reviews moderated?

Yes. New reviews are submitted for moderation. We show published user reviews separately from the editorial overview and never assign a default user rating.

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