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plain review

Free#19 of 23 in Git-Based CMS

A focused, self-hosted CMS for Markdown publishing through Git workflows.

7.4/10Editor score
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plain7.4 Visit plain

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

plain is an open-source, Git-native CMS for publishers building static websites from Markdown files and JSON configuration. Its browser-based administration interface supports Markdown editing, side-by-side live preview, drafts, publishing, media uploads, and version history. Content remains in the user’s Git repository, while plain generates static HTML and a read-only JSON API. It suits teams and individuals who want a self-hosted publishing workflow with Git as the content and deployment foundation, rather than a visual-first CMS.

The publishing workflow is centered on control and recoverability. Users can edit through the browser administration interface or directly in a code editor, maintain drafts, publish content, and restore earlier versions with one click. Deployment uses Git commits, and the hosting model is self-hosted, with no vendor-run server or account. That model fits publishers who already organize content and site changes through repositories. It is less suitable for teams seeking a managed publishing service or a broader visual editing experience.

plain also keeps its scope focused. It offers basic media management, static HTML generation, and read-only JSON API generation, while optional AI writing assistance can connect with Claude Code and the Anthropic API. GitHub is the listed Git provider. The published feature set does not include a visual editor, and the integration set is limited to those named connections. Choose plain when Markdown, Git history, static output, and self-hosting are priorities; consider an alternative when visual content creation or wider platform integrations matter more.

plain pros and cons

  • Where it wins
    • Markdown editing with side-by-side live preview and browser administration
    • Git history, drafts, publishing, and one-click restore
    • Generates static HTML and a read-only JSON API
  • Where it doesn't
    • No visual editor for non-Markdown content creation
    • Self-hosted deployment requires managing the hosting environment
    • Integration coverage centers on GitHub, Claude Code, and Anthropic API

plain fact sheet, pricing and score →

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