We are the Hygraph to Dato CMS migration experts

Challenges with Hygraph

Seriously, who uses GraphQL anymore? The whole thing feels like homework. Beginners get hit with a learning curve, and simple projects often end up feeling more complex than they need to be. The UI can slow to a crawl once your dataset grows, especially if you’re juggling dozens of fields or multiple locales. While the localization tools work, the experience can get messy with 10+ languages, and suddenly your dashboard looks like a spreadsheet that lost a fight.

Integrations are also tricky. Everything runs through GraphQL, which leads to your entire stack still living in REST-land. In that case, expect extra dev time to bridge the gap. If you’re not sure whether Hygraph is the right fit or you’re stuck halfway up the learning curve, reach out. We can help you figure out the cleanest path forward.

Key pain points

You have to really love GraphQL

GraphQL is one of its strongest point but it can be your downfall as well, if your team hasn’t touched GraphQL before, expect a ramp-up period. It’s powerful but definitely not “plug in and go.”

Large dataset performance issues

Once your project grows, the Hygraph UI can start dragging. Big data collections need extra optimization to stay usable.

Interface sluggishness at scale

Heavy models, long lists, and asset-heavy projects can make the dashboard feel slow, especially for editors.

Localization workflow complexity

Managing multiple locales works, but it’s not as intuitive as it looks on paper. Some teams find themselves clicking around more than expected.

Multi-language interface clutter

Multi-language setups work fine, but as soon as you hit double-digit locales, the UI quickly becomes noisy and harder to manage. It’s usable, just not optimised for scale.

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REST API integration challenges

If your systems still rely on REST, be prepared for extra engineering. Hygraph is GraphQL-only, so adapters and rework are part of the deal.

Benefits of Dato CMS

DatoCMS has a low learning curve, clean UI, and a drag-and-drop schema builder that lets teams shape content without a single existential crisis. Editors love it. Developers tolerate it. Everyone gets to ship faster.

The APIs are solid, the media pipeline is excellent, and the multilingual tooling is actually usable. But lto be honest, it’s expensive, and the drag-and-drop approach means it’s not exactly winning awards for flexibility. Still, if you want something that feels polished out of the box and integrates nicely with Next.js, Shopify, and friends, DatoCMS delivers a pretty smooth experience.

Key advantages

User-friendly interface

DatoCMS has a clean, approachable UI that editors can pick up instantly. Little training needed, and teams can publish content without tripping over the system.