Website Builder vs WordPress: Which One to Use?

Struggling to choose between website builder vs WordPress to create your website? If yes, don’t worry.

In this WordPress vs website builder comparison, we’ll look at two of the most popular website creation options to help you make an informed decision.

But first, let’s see the difference between the two.

What’s the Difference Between Website Builder and WordPress?

The key difference between website builders and WordPress is that website builders offer all-in-one solutions. Meanwhile, WordPress is a content management system (CMS) that needs separate hosting, installation, and customization.

Website builders are perfect for beginners looking for a quick and easy solution for creating a basic website. WordPress, on the other hand, provides more flexibility, scalability, and control to advanced users looking to create a complex website with custom features and plugins.

Website Builder vs WordPress – A Comprehensive Look

Before starting our WordPress versus website builder comparison, remember that here we’ll discuss self-hosted WordPress.org, not WordPress.com.

To learn the differences between the two, check out our complete article on WordPress.org vs WordPress.com.

WordPress.org is the content management system (CMS) version of WordPress. To use it, you must select one of the hosting options and install the WordPress software on your hosting account.

We will also not compare WordPress to a specific website builder because there are so many options available. Although these site builders differ in terms of functionality, pricing, and available templates, they usually offer the same user experiences.

As a result, we will compare the best website builders to WordPress in terms of ease of use, customization, security, value for money, and more.

1. Ease of Use

Website Builder

Website builders are usually easy to use and great for users with little or no coding knowledge. All you have to do is sign up for a plan and select a template. Then, you can start editing the webpage.

The drag-and-drop editor allows users to easily customize their website. For example, if you want to update a text, simply click on it, and an edit option will appear.

Furthermore, rearranging a website element is as simple as dragging and dropping them into a preset block. All that is required is familiarity with the drag-and-drop user interface.

WordPress

WordPress has some learning curve. Getting started with the self-hosted WordPress needs setting up a hosting service and installing WordPress.

After that, you can navigate through the WordPress dashboard to build a website. For example, to change the general settings of the website, you need to go to Settings » General from the sidebar. There are also dedicated options to create and manage pages or posts.

Also, after installing plugins, new menu options will appear on the sidebar to lead you to the plugins’ configuration pages. Plugins don’t share an interface, so you will need to learn how to use each of them.

While simple WordPress sites can be created without coding experience, building websites with advanced functionality can require coding knowledge. This includes anything from editing a single line in a website file to creating a new plugin.

2. Themes and Customization

Website Builder

Website builders use customizable templates to make the process of creating a website easier. These are ready-made website designs with images, layouts, and text.

Wix, for example, offers over 900 templates sorted into categories such as Business & Services, Store, Blog, and more.

Most website builders offer dozens or even hundreds of options. Some, like Hostinger website builder, also let you create a custom template with AI.

Once you’ve chosen a template, you may customize it with the website builder’s editor. The options vary depending on the website builder and template you’re choosing. However some items are editable with any quality website builder. These include colors, fonts, menu content, header and footer information, etc.

It is also possible to change the predefined page content. Simply click on an element to see editing options. For example, you can upload images, change banners, and enter text.

Here’s what the Squarespace editor looks like:

WordPress

WordPress, on the other hand, uses themes to customize the web appearance. A WordPress theme consists of pre-made templates, website elements, and customization options.

The big difference is that the official WordPress theme repository offers thousands, not hundreds, of free WordPress themes.

There are also paid themes and “freemium” themes that offer both a free and a premium version. For example, the popular WordPress theme Astra falls under the freemium category.

However, WordPress is a bit more complicated when it comes to customization. The WordPress theme editor is less user-friendly than drag-and-drop editors.

Some themes, however, are compatible with page builder plugins or Gutenberg, the WordPress block editor.

If you choose a page builder, you will need to install an additional WordPress plugin, which will enable drag-and-drop functionality similar to that of a website builder.

In addition, it’s also possible to add custom CSS to change the theme’s default appearance.

3. Plugins and Features

Website Builder

Website builders offer different plans with different feature packs. For example, the Wix Light plan does not offer a payment integration feature. The higher-tier Core plan usually has a payment integration feature.

Similarly, website builders like Squarespace don’t offer eCommerce analytics features in their Basic plan. To get it, you need to upgrade to the higher plan.

That said, site builders like Wix or Squarespace also offer paid add-ons created in-house or by third-party developers, allowing you to get additional advanced features as needed.

WordPress

Like themes, WordPress offers thousands of free WordPress plugins in its plugin repository. You can also buy premium plugins for third-party websites.

Whether you want to sell an online course, build a membership website, create an online store, or enable cookie consent on your site, there’s a plugin for that.

This means you can easily implement the features or functionalities that match your needs.

Check out our handpicked list of essential WordPress plugins for more recommendations.

4. eCommerce Functionality

Website Builder

Website builders usually offer eCommerce features in selected plans only.

For example, the Wix Core plan may offer online payment integration and abandoned cart recovery. Still, you’d need a higher-tier plan to access features like multiple currency options and back-in-stock notifications.

The process of customizing and designing a website is straightforward. Most eCommerce website builders feature templates for shopping carts, products, and checkout pages.

While a website builder makes creating a sellable online store easy, we recommend it just for small businesses with fewer things to sell.

Scaling up your website as your business expands needs a more comprehensive strategy. Furthermore, you might need some essential features that are easier to get with WordPress through plugins.

WordPress

WordPress lacks eCommerce functionality out of the box. To set up a store, you must first install an eCommerce plugin such as WooCommerce.

Like the WordPress software, the plugin is free and includes essential eCommerce functionality such as product filters, search, and reviews. It also offers several extensions for shipping tracking, payment gateways, and an automated tax calculator.

If you choose WooCommerce for your eCommerce needs, you will also need to manage your hosting. It’s important to choose a hosting solution that can handle your store’s demands while keeping it quick and dependable, especially during peak traffic times and sales events.

A WooCommerce-specific hosting service can provide the tools and support you need to keep your business running.

When it comes to designing and customizing your online store, you should use a WooCommerce-ready theme. Check out our handpicked selection of the top WooCommerce WordPress themes.

This type of theme contains checkout pages, different product page layouts, and shopping carts. Other features, like as email subscription, FAQ sections, and analytics, will require you to install WordPress plugins.

5. Security Aspects

Website Builder

The website builder will host your site and handle most of the security concerns.

To avoid vulnerabilities, website builders use proprietary software and do not disclose the source to the public. If a bug or vulnerability is discovered, the developer team is responsible for resolving it.

While they are relatively secure platforms, it is recommended that you install an SSL on your domain and use TLS encryption for transactions. Some website builders already offer this in their plans, but if not, you should buy one yourself.

Additional safety measures include using a strong password and, if available, enabling two-factor authentication.

WordPress

WordPress security is largely determined by how the website owner handles it. Security is affected by a number of factors, including outdated WordPress software, themes, and plugins, which are among the most common spots.

The WordPress core software is updated on a regular basis by the development team to address bugs and vulnerabilities. However, it is the responsibility of the website owner to update the WordPress software on a regular basis.

In addition, they should update themes and plugins as soon as new versions become available. These upgrades typically include new features, bug fixes, and security patches.

That said, it’s also important to only download themes and plugins from trusted sources.

To attract WordPress users, nulled WordPress plugins and themes are available at low prices. However, many themes and plugins are modified and unauthorised versions of the original.

As a result, they may contain malicious code and other flaws that could expose your website to breaches.

Another important factor is to select a trusted web hosting service. A reputable hosting company should include monitoring and security features, such as DDoS protection, to keep users safe.

6. SEO

Website Builder

Most website builders offer built-in SEO tools on their platforms. They contain custom meta tags, alt text, URL slugs, structured data markup, and many other SEO settings.

Another advantage of website builders is that their templates are usually mobile-optimized. As a result, you do not need to do anything further to ensure that the website is fully responsive.

If you need extra SEO tools to optimize your website, website builders provide SEO add-ons on their app market.

Hostinger, for example, provides an AI-powered SEO Assistant to help you create helpful meta titles, descriptions, and keywords. As a result, it will be easier to customize your content for better search rankings.

WordPress

WordPress allows you to create custom URLs for web pages as well as optimize the alt text of images. However, you still need an SEO plugin for more on-page SEO functionality.

Rank Math is among the most popular WordPress SEO plugins available. It allows you to change the meta title, meta description, and slugs for your posts and pages.

It also helps in content optimization by analyzing your post’s draft based on the focus keywords and making internal linking suggestions.

Learn more in our comprehensive Rank Math review.

Ultimately, WordPress is a blogging platform by default. As a result, you can easily start a blog to generate SEO-friendly content that will drive traffic to your website.

7. Maintenance and Development

Website Builder

One advantage of using website builders is that the vendor handles the maintenance for you. If they release a new update or fix an issue, it will be applied to your account immediately without your involvement.

The only site maintenance activity you need to do is renew the subscription plan, making it ideal for beginners and non-technical users.

WordPress

For WordPress, you are responsible for ongoing maintenance that requires some technical knowledge. The maintenance process can vary depending on the type of website you have. However, there are several tasks you should perform regularly:

One of the first tasks is creating regular backups. Backups act as a safety net for your website. In case of any security breach, technical error, or any other unforeseen issue, a backup allows you to restore your site to a previous, working version without losing valuable content or data. It’s a good practice to schedule backups frequently, ensuring you always have the most up-to-date copy of your site.

Another critical task is staying on top of updates. WordPress core, as well as the themes and plugins you use, are frequently updated by developers. These updates not only add new features but also fix bugs and, most importantly, patch security vulnerabilities. However, updates don’t happen automatically—you need to install them manually on your site. Regularly checking for and applying updates helps protect your site from potential threats and ensures it runs smoothly.

Lastly, you should scan for WordPress malware regularly. Malicious software can find its way onto your site through outdated themes, plugins, or security vulnerabilities. Performing regular scans helps you identify and remove any malware before it can harm your site or compromise your visitors’ safety. Keeping your site secure from malware is essential for your website’s trustworthiness and your users’ safety.

8. Customer Support

Website Builder

Most website builders offer multiple channels for customer support, including email, live chat, and phone. These options ensure you can easily reach out whenever you need assistance.

Additionally, many platforms feature a comprehensive knowledge base or support center. This resource often includes helpful articles, step-by-step guides, and troubleshooting tips. By exploring these resources, you can quickly resolve issues and maximize the platform’s features to create a successful website.

With so many support options available, website builders make it easier to get the help you need whenever you need it.

WordPress

WordPress does not offer a dedicated support team. Instead, it relies on detailed documentation to guide users. This documentation helps you learn how to use the platform and troubleshoot issues.

Additionally, WordPress has a large, active community that offers support through forums and websites. You can find solutions to many problems by connecting with other users who share their experiences.

9. Value for Money

Website Builder

To get started with a website builder, you only have to pay for the plan. The plan already includes hosting, a customized domain name, and pre-made templates, allowing you to quickly and easily create a website.

For example, Hostinger Website Builder starts at $2.49/month and includes a drag-and-drop editor, a free domain name, 150 unique templates, and a powerful AI Website Builder.

If you want to start an online store, the Business Website Builder package includes eCommerce options. Starting at $3.49/month, this plan allows you to sell up to 500 products, connect over 100 secure payment methods, and keep 100% of your profit with no transaction fees.

When it comes to website maintenance, all you need to do is renew your website builder plan and domain registration.

Website builders might be a more cost-effective and convenient option for beginners because they include everything you need to build a website in one place. However, as the business grows, the website builder plan may limit your possibilities.

WordPress

The cost of building a website with self-hosted WordPress varies. The content management system is free, but you need to purchase hosting services and a domain name to get started, increasing WordPress’s overall cost.

In addition, the cost of web hosting varies according to the type of hosting and plan chosen. For example, the cheapest WordPress hosting plan starts at $2.49/month.

Often, hosting services provide a free domain name. However, if the plan does not include it, you will have to buy it separately.

Furthermore, a hosting service and a domain name are enough to build a small WordPress site or personal blog. Plus, to customize it, WordPress offers a great selection of thousands of free themes and plugins.

However, eCommerce websites may need premium plugins and a completely custom theme.

Premium themes cost $47 to $100 per year, while premium plugins cost $49 to $999. The overall cost will be determined by the number of plugins used on the website.

Additionally, the cost of WordPress website maintenance varies according to the size of your website.

Overall, WordPress is far more expensive than website builders. However, it is a good option for those familiar with the CMS and wanting more control over their websites.

When Should You Use a Website Builder Over WordPress?

Website builders like Wix, Squarespace, and Weebly are perfect for users looking for simplicity and ease. Here’s when a website builder may be your better option:

You’re not tech-savvy: For non-technical users, website builders are far more accessible. They often offer drag-and-drop editors, pre-designed templates, and intuitive tools, making it easier for you to design your website without learning coding or web development.

You want an all-in-one solution: Website builders typically offer hosting, domains, and templates as part of a single package. This convenience is perfect for those who don’t want to deal with managing multiple services and providers.

You want to launch a website quickly: Website builders are designed for ease of use, making it easy to create a website in a matter of hours. If you don’t want to spend time learning the ins and outs of a platform, a website builder is a faster, more user-friendly choice.

You don’t need advanced customization: If you don’t require extensive design customization or unique features, website builders offer enough flexibility to create a great-looking site without the hassle of coding.

You have a small website or personal project: If you’re building a simple portfolio, small business site, or personal blog, a website builder offers an easy way to get started. It’s ideal for small-scale projects that don’t require complex functionality or scalability.

When Should You Use WordPress Over a Website Builder?

WordPress is a powerful platform that’s ideal for businesses and individuals seeking more customization and flexibility. You should pick WordPress over a website builder if:

You’re familiar with web development: If you have technical skills or access to a developer, WordPress can be highly advantageous. Its open-source nature lets you modify code, add custom features, and build a site exactly as you envision.

You need full control over your website design: WordPress offers thousands of themes and plugins that allow you to fully customize your site. You can tweak everything from page layouts to functionality, making it perfect for those with specific design needs.

You plan to scale your website: As your business grows, WordPress gives you the scalability you need. Whether you’re adding more pages, running an e-commerce store, or incorporating complex features, WordPress can handle it with ease.

You want to optimize for SEO: WordPress offers many SEO plugins, making it easier to optimize your content and improve your search engine rankings. If SEO is a priority, WordPress is a powerful tool.

You need a blog or content-heavy site: WordPress started as a blogging platform and is still one of the best tools for creating content-driven websites. If you’re planning to run a blog or a news site, WordPress is an excellent choice.

Final Thought: Website Builder vs WordPress: Which One to Use?

Both WordPress and website builders are great tools for creating a website. In the end, your decision should be based on your needs:

• Pick a website builder if you want the easiest possible website-building process from a single platform.
• Choose WordPress if you want complete control over how you build your website and where you host it.

We hope this detailed comparison of WordPress vs website builder helps you choose the best options for your website.

For more, check out these other helpful resources:

• 7 Best Website Builders for SEO
• 9 Best Free Website Builders for Small Business

Lastly, follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay updated on the latest WordPress and blogging-related articles.