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Now that you have switched to Gutenberg, how does this editor’s functionality feel? You might want more blocks or an improved experience.
If not, you can download an individual add-on that uses Gutenberg’s new features. For anybody looking forward to upgrading and improving the editor, this post covers blocks and plugins you must know.
In this post, let’s highlight some of them. However, before jumping further, written below is a brief regarding Gutenberg blocks.
What is a Gutenberg Block Editor?
Gutenberg block editor is the editor block used to create layouts for content in the new WordPress block editor, Gutenberg. Introduced in the 5.0 version of WordPress, the Gutenberg editor is powered by an open-source TinyMCE editor.
It is an entirely block-based editor where every content piece turns into a draggable block. It has been designed to be similar to page and website builder tools. By default, WordPress provides a set of basic content blocks, such as list, button, image, paragraph, and more.
There are plenty of WordPress plugins that add their blocks to streamline the embedding of new features.
How Do Gutenberg Block Plugins Work?
Gutenberg introduced various changes to WordPress. However, the primary difference between this and the classic editor is the inclusion of several blocks. These are widgets, shortcodes, and formatting functionality—all packed into one.
The working methodology of Gutenberg block plugins is quite simple. However, only a few would be familiar with the same as the Gutenberg editor, which is still relatively new and unfamiliar.
Typically, all of these plugins have plug-and-play functionality. After installing and activating one, you can instantly use new blocks from Gutenberg’s standard interface.
Top 10 Default WordPress Blocks You Must Know
Paragraph
The paragraph block is a simple text-only block that simplifies adding a single paragraph to content. This block will be used for most of the primary content on your website.
Headings
The heading block breaks the page into sections. Each heading should indicate the beginning of a new topic. Headings like H1, H2, H3, H4, and more can be added.
Table
This block type allows you to create basic tables in WordPress pages and posts. However, if you wish to integrate advanced tables with ordering, sorting, and searching features, you must install a relevant plugin.
List
The list block is a straightforward, text-only block that helps add bulleted and numbered lists. Its sole objective is to display content in a simple list format.
Quote
The quote block is a text-only block that helps to highlight a quote and include a type of citation. It offers two different layouts. One is to appear more significant than the other. You can easily switch between two layouts. However, it depends on the theme to comprehend how each citation and quote will appear.
Image
This one is the most basic of all the media types. You can insert a single image anywhere on the post or page. The new image block of Gutenberg works precisely the same as the classic editor. You can easily align your image to the center, right, and left. You can also give alt text, caption links, and more.
Video
The video block is used to upload video files to the website.
Buttons
You can seamlessly add call-to-action buttons to your WordPress posts and pages with button blocks.
Separator
The separator block adds a horizontal rule to the website, generally indicating a thematic change in the content.
Embeds
The Gutenberg editor block also comprises various embed blocks for popular sites. These can embed YouTube videos, tweets, and much more.
Top 3 WordPress Gutenberg Block Plugins
1. Responsive Block Editor
Introduced by CyberChimps, this is an advanced responsive Gutenberg blocks plugin that helps you create modern, responsive designs compatible with all devices. You can use reusable block page templates to begin your website.
It offers more than 20 creative blocks for Gutenberg. Thus, you can easily design an advanced website without writing a single code line. The settings are also elementary, allowing you to customize accordingly.
Prominent Features:
- Advanced columns to develop attractive column layouts
- Easy customization with several options
- Spacing options, background designs, custom widths, colors, shape dividers, etc.
- Post carousel and post grid blocks
- Faster loading time
- The auto-adjustable screen according to the devices
- Integration with eCommerce plugins
2. Genesis Blocks
Genesis Blocks is one Gutenberg plugin that doesn’t come with any price tag. It is a collection of WordPress custom blocks. The plugin comprises 14 functional blocks, eight pre-built page sections, and four pre-built page layouts.
Its library has some of the best and most prevalent WordPress blocks that you may need, such as:
- Advanced column block
- Pricing block
- Author profile block
- Share icon block
- Testimonial block
This plugin has a free version and a premium version, Genesis Pro. You will get newer blocks, more than 26 pre-built full-page layouts, 56 pre-built sections, and more.
3. Ultimate Addons
Ultimate Addons for Gutenberg is one of the most used block library plugins. The team behind the Astra theme creates this one. The theme comprises more than 15 Gutenberg blocks, like:
- Info box block
- Testimonial block
- Multi buttons block
- Price list block
- Team block
One advantage of this plugin is that it has built-in support for Astra Theme and all its starter websites. You can seamlessly import a starter site and use this block editor to create unique layouts.
Conclusion
The WordPress block editor can do much more than the bits and pieces you can imagine. The block-based system provides millions of possibilities for creativity and expansion. Each block plugin for WordPress lets you create dynamic, original content. So, choose cautiously and make attractive websites.
