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Building a website is no longer the daunting task it used to be. With platforms like WordPress and Wix, anyone—from tech-savvy entrepreneurs to your nan—can create a website.
But while both tools claim to simplify website creation, they offer wildly different experiences. So, how do you know which is the right one for you? Let’s dive into the world of WordPress and Wix to unpack their differences, strengths, and quirks.
What are you looking for?
When choosing between WordPress and Wix, the key question is this: do you want ultimate control, or do you prefer a quick and easy setup?
WordPress is like a customisable toolbox. With endless plugins, themes, and coding options, it gives you the freedom to create almost anything. Want a sleek portfolio? Done. An eCommerce empire? No problem. The catch? You’ll need a bit of tech know-how—or at least a willingness to learn.
Wix, on the other hand, is a drag-and-drop dream. Its user-friendly interface allows you to whip up a site in no time, no coding required. However, the simplicity comes at a cost: limited flexibility. If you ever need something outside Wix’s offerings, you might find yourself hitting a wall.
Who wins the creativity crown?
When it comes to creativity, both platforms have their strengths—but they cater to different types of users.
WordPress offers unlimited customisation. With over 50,000 plugins and thousands of themes, it’s a playground for developers and creatives. The downside? Too much choice can feel overwhelming. Plus, tweaking designs often requires dipping your toes into HTML and CSS.
Wix keeps it simple with a selection of professionally designed templates. These templates are easy to edit, but there’s a catch: once you’ve chosen a template, you’re stuck with it. Changing designs down the line means starting from scratch.
So, if you want boundless options and don’t mind a learning curve, WordPress is your go-to. If you prefer convenience over complexity, Wix has you covered.
Which is more beginner-friendly?
Let’s not beat around the bush: Wix is the clear winner for beginners. Its intuitive drag-and-drop editor makes building a site feel like playing with digital LEGO. Everything is visually guided, and there’s no need to fiddle with code or servers.
WordPress, meanwhile, has a steeper learning curve. While modern themes and page builders like Elementor have made it easier, there’s still some tech involved. Hosting, domain setup, and plugin management can be tricky for first-timers. But don’t let that scare you—plenty of tutorials and communities are ready to help you along the way.
Who takes the crown in search rankings?
Search engine optimisation (SEO) is crucial if you want your website to be found online. Both platforms have decent SEO capabilities, but there’s a clear champion.
WordPress is an SEO powerhouse. Thanks to plugins like Yoast SEO and Rank Math, optimising your content, metadata, and URLs is straightforward. Plus, its clean code and fast-loading themes make Google happy.
Wix has improved its SEO game in recent years, but it still lags behind WordPress. While it offers basic tools like keyword prompts and structured data, advanced SEO features remain limited.
If climbing search engine rankings is a top priority, WordPress gives you more control and tools to get there.
Which platform offers better value?
The costs of WordPress and Wix vary based on your needs, so let’s break it down:
WordPress: the platform itself is free, but you’ll need to pay for hosting, a domain, and any premium themes or plugins you fancy. Costs can range from a few pounds a month to several hundred if you go all-out. However, the flexibility to scale makes WordPress worth the investment for businesses.
Wix: it’s an all-in-one package. Plans include hosting and a domain, with prices starting from £10/month for basic features and climbing to £35/month for advanced eCommerce tools. While it’s simpler to budget, the fixed pricing structure may feel restrictive if your needs grow.
Planning for the future
Thinking long-term? Here’s where WordPress truly shines. Its open-source nature means it can grow with your business. Whether you’re adding a shop, a membership site, or even a custom booking system, WordPress can handle it.
Wix, while fine for smaller projects, struggles with scalability. Its closed ecosystem limits the extent to which you can expand your site’s functionality.
So, which one should you choose?
Ultimately, the decision boils down to your goals:
Choose WordPress if: you’re building a site for the long haul, want total creative freedom, and don’t mind getting your hands dirty with a bit of coding or plugin management.
Choose Wix if: you want a stunning website up and running today, without worrying about technical details.
There’s no one-size-fits-all
WordPress and Wix both have their place in the digital world. WordPress is the Swiss Army knife of website creation—powerful, flexible, and capable of almost anything. Wix, meanwhile, is the trusty hammer—straightforward, efficient, and perfect for getting the job done quickly.
If you’re unsure which to pick, ask yourself this: are you a DIY enthusiast who loves tinkering with every detail? Or do you just want something that works, no strings attached? Either way, your choice will shape your website—and your online success—for years to come.
Still stuck? Drop us a line, and we’ll help you figure it out as a proud WPEngine partner. After all, that’s what we’re here for.