What is MODX?

MODX is an open-source content management system that gives developers complete creative freedom while providing content editors with a user-friendly interface. Unlike opinionated CMSs, MODX outputs exactly what you build,no forced markup or classes.

MODX Revolution (the current version) has served developers since 2010. It is now a niche/legacy platform for developers who value clean code and flexible architecture over modern headless trends.

Free and open-source under GPL license.

Architecture and Technology

MODX uses a flexible, object-oriented PHP architecture.

Core Components

Resources: Pages and content containers
Elements: Templates, chunks, snippets, plugins
Extras: Third-party extensions
Context System: Multi-site and multi-language
Media Sources: Flexible asset management

Content Model

Resources with custom Template Variables
Chunks for reusable HTML
Snippets for PHP logic
Templates for page layouts

Typical Use Cases

MODX is commonly used for:

Agency projects: Custom client websites
Multi-language sites: Complex i18n needs
Marketing sites: Clean, performant pages
Portfolios: Creative showcases
Small e-commerce: With extras

Strengths

Creative freedom: No forced markup
Clean output: Semantic, minimal code
Flexible architecture: Build anything
Multi-language: Strong i18n support
Friendly editing: Good editor experience
Open source: Free, GPL licensed

Limitations and Trade-offs

Smaller ecosystem: Fewer extras than WordPress
Learning curve: Unique concepts to learn
Community size: Smaller than major CMSs
Developer availability: Fewer MODX specialists
Modern features: Catching up in some areas

SEO, Performance, and Content Governance

SEO

Full control over URLs and output. SEO packages available for enhanced features.

Performance

Caching options available. Clean output helps performance.

Content Governance

User groups and access controls. Resource versioning.

Tips and Best Practices

Learn MODX concepts (resources, elements) first
Use Gitify for version control workflows
Explore extras at modx.com/extras
Set up contexts for multi-site or i18n
Implement caching for production

Who Should (and Should Not) Choose MODX

Best Fit For

Developers wanting clean output
Multi-language projects
Creative agencies
Existing MODX users

Not Ideal For

Quick-launch projects
Maximum ecosystem needs
Non-technical teams alone
Headless requirements

Common Alternatives

WordPress: Larger ecosystem
Craft CMS: Modern PHP alternative
October CMS: Laravel-based
ProcessWire: Similar flexibility

MODX excels for developers who prioritise clean, flexible output.