Choosing the Right Website Platform

July 24, 2024

One of the first questions I get when I tell people that I build websites is: “Which platform is better?” I believe the answer really depends on the goal for your site, how fast you need it built, your budget, and the specific requirements for your website. For small to medium-sized businesses wanting a website, there are four main options: Wix, Squarespace, WordPress, and Webflow.

Wix: The Beginner’s Best Friend

Let’s say you are starting a small business, you want something fast, maybe you are looking to DIY. Wix might be just what you need. It’s easy to use with its drag-and-drop interface. You don’t need any coding skills, so it’s perfect for beginners. Be aware that Wix Classic is not fully responsive, and you will see the site being cropped when resizing the window.

Pros:
  • easy to use
  • quick setup
  • beginner friendly
Cons:
  • limited customization
  • not fully responsive
  • can get costly with add-ons

Squarespace: The Stylish Storyteller

For those looking for a more minimalist, modern look with some customization, Squarespace could be it. It’s well-suited for visual storytelling and showcasing your brand.

Pros:
  • beautiful templates
  • good for visuals
  • responsive
Cons:
  • fewer integrations
  • less customization
  • limited SEO options

WordPress: The Customization King

If you are a medium size, maybe you’ve been doing business for some years and want a CMS that grows with you, then the answer is WordPress. It is a highly customizable platform that can scale with you. You can customize almost anything to fit your needs, and it’s really good for SEO. WordPress has been around since 2003 and, as of 2024, is still the most popular CMS in the world.

Pros:
  • highly customizable
  • strong SEO capabilities
  • extensive plugin library
Cons:
  • requires ongoing updates
  • initial setup can be intricate
  • requires some technical knowledge to build

Webflow: The Designer’s Playground

Maybe you’ve seen websites full of animations; chances are it is using Webflow. It provides powerful tools to create custom layouts and interactions, though it might be a bit complex for beginners.

Pros:
  • advanced design tools
  • flexible for custom layouts
  • great for animations
Cons:
  • steeper learning curve
  • higher cost
  • can be complex for beginners

My Personal Preference

Now, you might ask, which do I prefer? Having built websites on these platforms, I would say the best choice depends on the client and situation. My goal is to guide you to what suits your needs best! Personally, I like WordPress. Unlike some other CMS platforms, growth is unlimited in WordPress. Just ask some of the big sites using WordPress: White House, The Rolling Stones, TechCrunch, Time, and Harvard.

Ultimately, the choice of CMS is just one part of the equation. A website can look good and attract your ideal customer depending on the visual language and design choices. They can also function properly based on the setup. The best CMS for you will align with your specific needs and goals, but a well-designed site can shine on any of these platforms.