Choosing the right website platform: A comparative guide to Squarespace, WordPress & Wix
Choosing the right platform for a new website depends on various factors, including your business needs, technical expertise, budget and future growth plans. There are several website platforms to choose from, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. So it's essential to consider these factors before making a decision.
Here's a brief overview of the big hitters, Squarespace, WordPress and Wix:
1. Squarespace
✅ Pros:
User-friendly with drag-and-drop functionality.
All-in-one platform with hosting included.
Security and peace of mind – less vulnerable to being hacked than WordPress due to Squarespace having closed control over its apps and widgets, therefore minimising any threats.
Good customer support.
Good for SEO (search engine optimisation).
Professionally designed templates for DIYers but note it’s totally possible to build a bespoke site from scratch.
❌ Cons:
Limited third-party integrations.
Less flexibility for advanced customisation.
Monthly/annual subscription fees.
🌟 Ideal for:
Small businesses with limited technical expertise.
Those who prioritise ease of use and aesthetics.
2. WordPress:
✅ Pros:
Highly customisable with a vast library of themes and plugins.
Open-source and free to use.
Good for SEO (search engine optimisation).
❌Cons:
Requires more technical knowledge.
Hosting, domain and security are separate concerns.
Can be overwhelming for beginners.
Because it's open source, it’s easier for hackers to gain access so regular manual updates have to be performed or you need to pay someone to manage your site for you.
No in-house support team, so you’ll need to pay for assistance.
🌟 Ideal for:
Businesses that require high customisation.
Those with some technical expertise or budget for professional help.
3. Wix
✅ Pros:
User-friendly with a drag-and-drop builder.
All-in-one solution with hosting included.
App market for additional features.
❌Cons:
Less flexibility compared to WordPress.
Monthly subscription fees.
Limited scalability for complex websites.
🌟 Ideal for:
Small businesses and solopreneurs with limited technical skills.
Those who want a visually appealing website quickly.
Other platforms
Depending on your specific needs, there are other platforms worth exploring, such as Shopify for e-commerce, Weebly, or even custom solutions built by web developers.
Considerations when selecting a website platform
Ultimately, it's essential to evaluate your business needs, your comfort level with technology and your long-term goals when choosing a website platform.
Factors to consider when choosing your website platform:
Budget: Squarespace and Wix typically have a straightforward pricing structure, including hosting fees. WordPress, on the other hand, may require separate hosting expenses and additional costs for premium themes or plugins and ongoing maintenance.
Design: If design is crucial for your business, Squarespace and Wix provide visually appealing templates out of the box. WordPress can achieve similar results, but it may require more customisation.
Scalability: If you plan for significant growth or have specific future requirements, WordPress is often the most scalable solution.
Ease of use: Squarespace and Wix are generally more user-friendly for beginners. If you prefer a simpler setup and maintenance process, these platforms might be more suitable.
SEO: All platforms can be optimised for search engines, but WordPress provides more control with a wide range of SEO plugins.
Support and community: WordPress has a large and active community, making it easier to find help. Squarespace and Wix also offer support, but their communities may be smaller.
In conclusion, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. If simplicity and aesthetics are crucial, Squarespace or Wix might be suitable. For maximum control and scalability, especially if you plan to expand your online presence significantly, WordPress is a strong option. Consider your priorities, technical skills and plans for future growth when making the decision.
6 reasons why I personally love using Squarespace
1. User-friendly design
Squarespace's user-friendly interface with a drag & drop builder makes it easy for me to create visually appealing websites without extensive coding knowledge – and for you to edit your website in the future.
Furthermore, optimising websites for mobile use is a must-have in today’s digital landscape and I like that Squarespace makes it easy to design for mobile devices.
2. Content Management System (CMS) capabilities
Squarespace’s user-friendly Content Management System allows my clients to make content edits to their site easily and quickly. For me, it would be nuts for a small business owner to have to rely on a web designer, developer or agency after their website has been built to make simple text edits and changes. And paying ££ in retainer fees for the privilege. Erm, no thanks, we can do better than that.
3. Consistent updates and security
Squarespace regularly updates its platform to introduce new features and enhance security. As a website designer, I appreciate the peace of mind that comes with knowing the platform is actively maintained and secure.
Having previously built a website on WordPress (for my own marketing business), I got fed up with updating plug ins on my site on a weekly basis and seeing the high level of hackers that were trying to gain access. Peace of mind counts for a lot!
4. Customer support
Squarespace has a dedicated 24/7 customer support team (which WordPress doesn’t have), providing assistance through online chat, email support, plus a support forum. They also have a massive library of support articles covering everything Squarespace. This support is invaluable for both me and my solopreneur clients.
5. Integrated analytics
Squarespace provides built-in analytics tools, allowing me to track website performance easily. This data helps in understanding visitor behaviour and optimising the site for better results. You can also of course set up Google Analytics and Google Search Console.
6. Scalability for growing businesses
Squarespace can scale with the growth of small businesses. While it may not offer the same level of customisation as some other platforms, it provides a solid foundation that can accommodate your business’s evolving needs.
In summary, Squarespace's intuitive design, professional templates, integrated features, and ongoing support make it a preferred choice for designing websites for small businesses and solopreneurs. The platform's simplicity, combined with its robust capabilities, allows me to create effective online presences for my clients efficiently.
Still got questions?
I hope the above information has helped you to reach a decision about the best website platform for your business.
If you're still unsure, it may be helpful to consult with a website designer who can provide tailored advice based on your specific needs.
As a website designer, specialising in Squarespace but with experience of using alternative platforms like WordPress, I would be happy to chat through the best solution for your business needs.