Squarespace or WordPress is the most common question I get as a web designer. Which website builder is right for you as a blogger, or a business owner? And yes, there are other platforms like Shopify or Showit that are great website builders, but Squarespace and WordPress are my go-to.
An Overview of Squarespace
- Advantages of using Squarespace: It’s a very user-friendly interface. Every platform has a learning curve, but my clients who aren’t techy can learn it easier and don’t get overwhelmed. Squarespace also has a lot of built-in features and functionalities that don’t require plugins like WordPress.
- Limitations of using Squarespace: There is limited flexibility and scalability when it comes to using Squarespace. While there are quite a few options available on the platform, it’s not as endless as WordPress. Squarespace does have a slightly higher cost compared to other options, especially if you’re wanting to use the Commerce features.
An Overview of WordPress.org
- Advantages of using WordPress.org: WordPress is an open-source platform with endless resources. There is no shortage of designers, plugins, themes, tutorials, or courses that can help you with your website. With that also comes a high level of flexibility and scalability. There’s almost nothing you can’t do with WordPress! You can start simple and add-on as you need.
- Limitations of using WordPress.org: There is a fairly steep learning curve for beginners, unless you’re someone who is learns quickly or might just be hiring someone to manage the site. You don’t have to worry about ‘learning WordPress’ if you plan on outsourcing maintenance. I do like to point out though, that often the complications or frustrations of WordPress are in the theme you’re using, not WordPress itself.
Squarespace vs WordPress: Ease of Use
In order to figure out the best website platform for your business needs, it’s important to consider your level of technical skills and also your budget for website development. If you’re new to website management or have limited resources for hiring a designer, Squarespace might be the better option for you. While both Squarespace and WordPress offer a wide selection of website templates, WordPress boasts an even more extensive library with thousands of templates available. However, this vast selection can also make it overwhelming for beginners to navigate.
Squarespace, on the other hand, provides a user-friendly interface and a streamlined design process, making it easier for those who are less familiar with website design to get started. You don’t have to go “find” a Squarespace template, as there are great templates built-in with full functionality. (WordPress has free templates, but they are pretty limited in functionality.) Additionally, if you sign up for Squarespace, you won’t necessarily need to worry about finding a website developer to make updates to your site, as the platform is designed to be user-friendly and manageable by those with limited technical skills.
If you are wanting to hire a designer, regardless of platform, work with me!
Squarespace vs WordPress: Design Options
When it comes to design flexibility, WordPress stands out as the clear winner. With specialized website builders like Elementor and Divi, along with thousands of plug-ins, you can create beautiful and sophisticated websites without any coding skills required. Squarespace also offers a range of third-party plugins, but its capabilities are limited compared to WordPress.
While Squarespace does have some built-in features, such as e-mail marketing and the ability to host a podcast, all-in-one platforms are not always the best choice. It is important to consider your specific needs and preferences when it comes to website design and functionality, and weigh the pros and cons of each platform before making a decision. Ultimately, WordPress offers unparalleled design versatility and customization options, making it a top choice for those who value flexibility and creativity in their website.
Squarespace vs WordPress SEO
When it comes to optimizing your website for search engines, WordPress and Squarespace both have great SEO options and functionality for business owners.
Squarespace has a user-friendly platform that makes it easy for anyone to optimize their website for search engines without any prior technical knowledge. It has built-in tools that allow you to customize your page titles, meta descriptions, and header tags, which are essential for good SEO.
However, WordPress offers a more comprehensive set of SEO options, with its wide range of plugins that can be used to fine-tune your website’s SEO performance. This makes WordPress a great choice for businesses looking to establish a strong online presence and want to prioritize improving their rankings in search engine results pages. Ultimately, the choice between Squarespace and WordPress for SEO will depend on your individual needs and preferences, but both have their own advantages.
Is WordPress less expensive than Squarespace?
For the most part, yes! Squarespace starts at $16/month, while WordPress hosts start around $10-15/month. On Squarespace, you have to upgrade to the $23/month plan to be able to customize your site with any CSS and use their premium modules and blocks. You can still get a basic website on Squarespace for the $16/month, but you’re going to be limited in functionality, which a lot of business owners need (or want) those other options.
Is WordPress better than Squarespace for SEO?
WordPress is slightly better than Squarespace for SEO, only because of the plugins available. If you’re not actually going to utilize the schema, table of contents, or other SEO plugins on WordPress, then it’s basically the same as Squarespace. If you know how to format and optimize your content on your pages and posts, you can be successful with SEO on Squarespace.
Should I switch from Squarespace to WordPress?
It depends! Why are you wanting to switch? WordPress is not inherently better for every single business owner and what they need for their website. Don’t switch to WordPress just because you think it’s the premier website platform. The best platform for you is the one that fits your budget and your level of tech savviness.
