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One of the first considerations when creating a website is which platform to use. This decision is crucial because it affects every subsequent choice you make. A common comparison is WordPress vs. Wix, as both platforms are popular and feature-rich.
For instance, Wix provides almost all the necessary tools to build your website immediately. Conversely, WordPress requires more technical knowledge. However, Wix does have some significant limitations that may not be immediately evident.
In this post, we will compare WordPress and Wix and explore which option may be more suitable for you. First, let’s delve into Wix and why it’s popular.
Introducing Wix
For the unaware, Wix is a website builder platform rather than a Content Management System (CMS) like WordPress. The difference is that Wix looks to include everything you need to create and manage your site without the need for third-party solutions.
Compared to other website platforms, Wix is one of the more popular. While no solution can compete with WordPress on sheer user numbers, it does have a healthy market share that dukes it out with Joomla! and Squarespace.
The major appeal of Wix is its all-in-one feature set and ease of use. In the next section, we’ll explore this a little further.
Why You Might Want to Use Wix to Publish Your Site
While it’s easy to dismiss Wix as a WordPress also-ran, it has plenty to offer site owners. For example, there’s a commendable focus on User Experience (UX). You’ll choose a template for your site before you sign up, which is a great way to get someone ‘on the hook’. It’s a quick process, and you can begin creating your site immediately.
Moreover, many helpful tooltips across the Wix dashboard will help you understand what every feature does. We also like the editing experience with Wix. There are administration menus full of specific options, and the visual editor is a joy to use, too:
We also like that users don’t have to worry about site security, as Wix handles this. It’s a scary facet of running a site, and Wix’s responsibility for your site’s security will appeal to less technical and fearful users.
Although Wix doesn’t need to extend its functionality per se, the App Market is one of the best available and fills the gaps missing in the core software:
Overall, Wix will appeal to users who don’t want to deal with the technical aspects of running a site. This is a valid consideration, and for this, Wix has a lot to offer.
Where WordPress Does Better Than Wix
Of course, WordPress has many positives, too. It’s open-source, meaning a whole community works on the platform rather than a development team disconnected from its users.
Wix also doesn’t let you take your site elsewhere if you want to use a competitor. This isn’t an ideal stance, and most other website builder platforms let you export and migrate content. As such, Wix expects you to use the platform forever, which isn’t feasible.
WordPress has more options for theming your site and extending the functionality. While Wix offers around 800 templates, WordPress has thousands of themes – both free and premium, depending on your budget:
The WordPress Plugin Directory is also well-stocked, and you should be able to find what you need within its library. It allows you to create a site your way rather than working within the set parameters that Wix offers.
WordPress vs Wix: Pricing
It’s fair to note that WordPress vs Wix isn’t the direct comparison you think. Both platforms aim to achieve different goals, which are reflected in the pricing.
For example, WordPress core software is free, but you must pay for hosting, a domain, plugins, and themes. Depending on your choices, you could spend around $350–400 per year on a complete WordPress website.
In contrast, Wix restricts the features and functionality you get through subscription tiers. There are seven different tiers to choose from with Wix, depending on whether you want to set up e-commerce functionality. There’s a free tier, too, but this is a limited representation of Wix rather than a legitimate way to publish a site.
You’ll likely pay around $30 per month for the entire Wix experience—around $360 annually. This is a steal when you compare it to WordPress’ need for hosting, a domain, and other factors. However, WordPress represents a better, longer-term investment. This is because you own your content and decide how your site presents.
In short, WordPress represents better value for money despite the need for a more significant initial outlay.
WordPress vs Wix: Which Platform You Should Use?
When comparing WordPress and Wix, it’s important to note significant differences. Wix offers strong functionality and a user-friendly experience, making starting easy without a steep learning curve. On the other hand, WordPress may require more technical know-how, especially when managing a website.
Despite Wix’s impressive features and excellent App Market, WordPress ultimately emerges as the winner in this comparison. With WordPress, you have the flexibility to create a wide range of websites and the ability to scale as your site grows. Additionally, WordPress offers a cost-effective long-term solution, whereas, with Wix, you may encounter limitations as your site expands, potentially leading to decreased value.
In Summary
Choosing a website platform is crucial, so you’ll want to research before spending money. One key skirmish for WordPress vs. Wix is that both are free at the core. This makes your decision that much tougher.
However, WordPress offers flexibility, scalability, and modularity. Moreover, a fantastic community strives to make the platform the best. Because of this, WordPress is a go-to solution regardless of your site’s needs.
Do you think there’s something extra to add to the discussion between WordPress and Wix? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!
