⏳ Do you want to skip the read and get right to my pick in this Webflow vs Wix comparison? My pick for the better website builder is Webflow.
Introduction to our Webflow vs Wix Comparison.
One of the key challenges in today’s online workplace is finding a website builder. Preferably, it is a one-size-fits-all solution that helps you create a good-looking site with the potential to grow with your business or your brand persona.
In which case, how does one get started when it comes to choosing a site builder? What sort of functionality would you need to consider in making a decision? In this comparative review, we take a closer look at two building platforms that have both grown a strong online following over the past decade. These are Webflow vs Wix.
We will be judging Webflow Wix in terms of ease of use, features and functionality, SEO and mobile capabilities, eCommerce, and pricing.
Quick Comparison Table For Webflow vs Wix
Features | 🥇 Webflow (My Top Pick!) | Wix |
---|---|---|
Ease of Use | Steep learning curve, better for those with some technical knowledge. | Highly user-friendly with a drag-and-drop editor. |
Key Features & Flexibility | Highly customizable, but requires some design and development knowledge. | Highly flexible with a wide range of templates and apps for additional functionality. |
SEO & Marketing | Good SEO options, integrates with various marketing tools. | Good SEO features and integrates well with various marketing tools. |
Ecommerce Features | Basic eCommerce features suitable for small to medium-sized stores. | Strong eCommerce features suitable for small to medium-sized stores. |
Customer Support & Resources | Good customer support, extensive documentation, community forum. | 24/7 customer support including phone, email, and chat, plus a knowledge base. |
Pricing | Plans start at $12/month for basic and go up to $36/month for business plans. eCommerce plans start at $29/month. | Free plan available. Paid plans start at $14/month and go up to $49/month for business and eCommerce plans. |
My View | Webflow is great for web designers who need advanced customization options. | Wix is ideal for beginners and those who want a user-friendly platform with a lot of features. |
Try for Free | Try for Free |
Overview:
But first, a quick overview of our two contenders – Webflow vs Wix:
Webflow:
San Francisco-based Webflow is a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform that allows users to create responsive websites using a visual editing software they can easily access from their browsers. Its namesake developer started the business in 2013 and it was originally a startup under the American startup accelerator Y Combinator.
Wix:
Based in Tel Aviv, Israel, Wix is the site builder of choice for over 4 million users worldwide and it’s a platform that has grown by leaps and bounds since it was first offered online in 2006. It is considered a hybrid builder in the sense that you can go for an AI-driven approach to site building, or you can do it more conventionally with a template-based system.
Ease of Use:
Which between Wix Editor X vs Webflow is more user-friendly?
Webflow:
Here’s the thing: Webflow is not for the faint of heart or those who are tabula rasa in terms of site creation. There are numerous aspects to the platform you need to orient yourself with: the tool suite, page sections, toolbars, and the HTML/CSS-based site editor. To be fair with the platform, though, it does offer its own onboarding materials: a series of how-to video tutorials that walk new users through every aspect of site creation using the platform. Still, this isn’t a platform that you can use as soon as you log in.
Wix:
Unlike Webflow Wix is intuitive and straightforward to use. Hence, it’s easy to see why Wix is the choice of millions. Need to create a site for a business or a product? Just answer a few system-generated questions, and the platform builds the framework for you; all you really need to do is add your own personal aesthetic or functional embellishments to put your stamp on your site. Not a fan of this AI-driven approach? The wealth of templates available is bound to get you started.
Winner – Wix! It easily takes this round of the Webflow vs Wix debate.
Features and Flexibility:
Which offers more and better range of features – Wix vs Webflow?
Out-of-the-box:
Let's examine which between Webflow or Wix has more features for users out of the box.
Webflow:
Seriously into web design and development? Webflow has you covered. Out of the box, the platform comes out punching with a roster of tools at your fingertips. Standard platform features include (as previously stated) an HTML/CSS site editing suite, its own blogging platform, parallax scrolling, and the ability to create animations for boosting the visual appeal of your site.
Wix:
Wix brings AI into the site building equation with its proprietary Artificial Design Intelligence (Wix ADI) site builder. As stated above, all you need to do is answer a number of questions to help the system generate the framework for your site. But Wix also gives bang for traditionalists’ bucks in the sense that it also offers a drag-and-drop builder that you can use almost as soon as you sign up for an account. Wix’s bells and whistles also include tools for SEO and ecommerce, but we’ll get into those later in the review.
Webflow vs Wix Themes and Templates:
Which among Wix vs Webflow have better-looking themes and templates?
Webflow:
With 200 themed templates, it’s easy to dismiss Webflow in terms of ready to go site design. But it you look at the quality of these templates, you’ll see that the platform is not at a loss: there are templates to suit the different needs of users in terms of specific industry and/or market niche and aesthetic value.
Wix:
Wix has long had the most extensive selection of site templates in the industry, and it now tops the charts with over 800 templates distributed among over 70 industrial and aesthetic categories. Need a specific look for your site? Wix is bound to have a template to suit your purposes – and you can customise it.
Customisation Tools:
If you want to go the distance design-wise, can Webflow or Wix let you do that?
Webflow:
Since we’re on the subject of customisation, Webflow allows users to add their own special touches to their site in either one of two modes: Designer and Editor. Designer mode is the more technical of the two. Editor, on the other hand, works on a more aesthetic level.
Wix:
Compared to Webflow Wix can let create a custom look for your site. But if you want to create something really attention-grabbing, you’d best head for its in-platform App Store where you can find a plethora of solutions.
The major flaw with the platform is that its template selection is rigid. You cannot take back your first template choice once your site goes live.
Webflow vs Wix 3rd Party Integrations:
How does Wix vs Webflow stack up in terms of apps integrations?
Webflow:
Webflow’s in-platform marketplace can actually be found in its support site Webflow University. There are apps available in over 30 categories, including office management, analytics, ecommerce, and customer engagement.
Wix:
Like Webflow Wix’s in-platform App Market is host to nearly 300 proprietary and third-party applications that you can use to enhance the overall look and performance of your site.
Hosting:
What's the quality of hosting services in Wix vs Webflow?
Webflow:
On its site, Webflow boasts that its in-platform hosting service is 100% reliable and as fast as lightning. Webflow sites are powered by global site support infrastructure Amazon Web Services (AWS) and site loading is aided by Fastly. To further enhance loading speed, Webflow sites are also HTTP/2 ready.
Wix:
While long-time Wix users have already maximised the use of its content delivery network (CDN) server setup, recent developments have enabled the platform to offer cloud hosting for its customers. This relatively new addition is highly recommended for those who want a more stable and secure server for their sites.
Backups:
How does Wix vs Webflow handle backups in case the worst happens?
Webflow:
Automated backups are built into the Webflow AI, so you can easily restore your site in the event of a crash. Also, the platform immediately saves a copy whenever you finish working on a landing page or sub-page.
Wix:
Unlike Webflow Wix requires you to save frequently if you want to be able to use the most recent version of your site under its Site History feature.
Migration:
Webflow:
Migrating a site you built with a different platform can be a bit challenging. The platform doesn’t have a built-in tool for platform-to-platform migration, but you can use tools like Nativator.io or Udesly to carry sites over from your previous host.
Wix:
The thing with Wix is that migration can only be done between two Wix accounts; otherwise, there is no automated option for migrating your site from one platform to another. Instead, the workaround is rather tedious: you have to save your site information into *.csv (database) files to import into your Wix account.
Winner – Draw! in the ‘Features and Flexibility' round of this Webflow vs Wix battle.
SEO and Mobility:
How does Webflow to Wix compare in terms of SEO capabilities?
SEO:
What features does Webflow or Wix have that helps you land on page 1 of the SERPs?
Webflow:
Specific controls for SEO management are already built into the Webflow UI – and you don’t need to download any other plugins or apps. Webflow’s SEO suite includes tools for SEO markup, indexing, redirection, and also offers alt tag editing for images.
Wix:
Compared to Webflow Wix’s SEO toolkit does practically the same job and, in this case, is much easier to use for those who know absolutely nothing with regard to SEO. Note, however, that while SEO tools are available across all subscription tiers.
Mobile:
Are Webflow or Wix websites mobile-responsive?
Webflow:
The good news: you can use Webflow to create mobile-optimised websites. The bad news: as it's mostly browser-based, you will have a challenging time trying to work on or manage your device on a smaller screen.
Wix:
Compared to Webflow Wix users face a similar issue: you can use it on a desktop computer to create a mobile-savvy site, but you’ll have your work cut out for you if you try to edit it on a smaller device.
Pagespeed:
What are page speeds like for Webflow or Wix?
Webflow:
Webflow is fast, loading in as quickly as 1.40 seconds – images and all.
Wix:
Comparing Webflow vs Wix, three seconds flat is the average loading time for most sites built with Wix.
Winner – Draw! This match in the Webflow vs Wix ‘SEO and Mobility' battle places them at level.
Webflow vs Wix eCommerce Tools:
What tools does Wix vs Webflow offer to help you set up an online store?
Webflow:
Webflow’s eCommerce suite is all about customising the online retail experience for one’s customers, including modifications for one’s shopping cart and checkout. You can also modify in-store interactions and connect to numerous payment gateways, including Stripe and PayPal.
Wix:
Compared to Webflow Wix’s standard eCommerce toolkit includes solutions for online store management, online and offline marketing, international currency support, shipping schedules, and delivery logistics.
Winner – Webflow! If we’re going to go by ecommerce functionality in Wix vs Webflow, we plump for Webflow.
Support and Resources:
Should you encounter issues with creating your site, how does Webflow or Wix help out?
Webflow:
Webflow has an online knowledge hub called Webflow University which offers practically everything from audiovisual tutorials, blog posts on various aspects of the platform, and its online marketplace for plugins and third-party apps. Customer service is available online 24/7 via livechat and email.
Wix:
Compared to Webflow Wix’s knowledge base is a great resource for quick tips and advanced learning on your own, seeing how it’s well maintained and updated regularly. However, customer and technical services are only available during business hours on the phone, while the LiveChat option is only available for higher subscription tiers. Email support is always available regardless of what subscription tier you’re in.
Winner – Draw! We are calling this Webflow or Wix ‘Support and Resources' match a draw.
Webflow Wix Pricing:
Software cost is always a consideration when choosing either Webflow or Wix. How do they compare?
Webflow:
Webflow offers a free-for-life subscription, but we feel that this is more for testing the waters before committing to a premium subscription. Premium subscriptions will set you back by $16 a month for the Lite Plan and $36 monthly for the Pro Plan. Webflow also has institutional subscription plans that range from $70 to $280 monthly.
No free trial is provided since there is a free version. Then the terms of use page states a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Wix:
Compared to Webflow Wix has seven subscription plans, with premium plans priced between $12.50 to 35 monthly. What sets it apart from most site building subscriptions is that all of the features offered for premium plans may also be used by those on a free subscription, though in a limited capacity.
As stated on their terms of use page, there's a Wix free plan as well as a 14-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
Winner – Webflow! If we’re going to go by pricing alone, this Webflow vs Wix match goes to Webflow.
Comparison Winner: Webflow or Wix?
All things considered, is Webflow better than Wix? We consider Webflow the Comparison Winner in this Wix vs Webflow battle. Whilst Wix key benefits are ease of use, reasonable starter pricing. Webflow reigns supreme with a more comprehensive platform with an extensive range of tools and plugins. It also has a better free plan.
Conclusion and Recommendations to our Wix vs Webflow Comparison :
Wrapping up this Webflow vs Wix showdown;
What is Webflow best for?
Webflow works best for those with more advanced knowledge of site development, as well as those who are scaling up their businesses online.
What is Wix best for?
Wix is a great choice for just about anybody, but it’s a platform we recommend for most beginners.
Wix vs Webflow Alternatives
Here's a list of the best Webflow vs Wix vs Squarespace alternatives to create a an online presence:
Rank | Key Features | Price (Basic Paid Plan) | My View | |
---|---|---|---|---|
🥇 Squarespace | Beautiful Professional design templates, blogging tools, powerful marketing tools, great eCommerce features for small to medium-sized stores | Starts at $12/month Check Pricing | Perfect for creatives and small businesses needing a visually stunning site | Try For Free |
2. Webflow | Visual CSS design, CMS features, eCommerce capabilities | Starts at $12/month Check Pricing | Best for designers and developers wanting deep customization | Try For Free |
3. Weebly | Easy-to-use, eCommerce capabilities, range of templates | Starts at $6/month Check Pricing | Good for small businesses and e-commerce | Try For Free |
4. Shopify | Comprehensive eCommerce tools, large app store, SEO features | Starts at $29/month Check Pricing | Best for creating an online store | Try For Free |
5. Wix | Drag-and-drop builder, wide range of templates, App Market | Starts at $14/month Check Pricing | Great all-around website builder with flexibility and features | Try For Free |
6. Wordpress.com | Blogging tools, large theme selection, good for large sites | Starts at $4/month Check Pricing | Best for blogging and larger sites | Try For Free |
7. Carrd | Simple, one-page sites, ideal for personal profiles and resumes | Starts at $19/year Check Pricing | Best for simple, one-page sites | Try For Free |
8. Jimdo | AI-powered builder, eCommerce tools, SEO features | Starts at $9/month Check Pricing | Ideal for beginners with its easy-to-use interface | Try For Free |
9. 1&1 IONOS | Wide range of templates, marketing and eCommerce tools | Starts at $5/month Check Pricing | Good all-rounder with a focus on business websites | Try For Free |
10. GoDaddy | GoCentral ADI, email marketing, eCommerce tools | Starts at $9.99/month Check Pricing | Easy-to-use, but limited in terms of design customization | Try For Free |
Webflow vs Wix Final Word:
Depending on what you need, we recommend that you also look beyond the Wix Webflow rivalry. Consider your options for both site hosting services and builders.
FAQ:
I don’t have much website building experience, can I use Webflow?
Yes, but we would recommend that you use a more tractable platform as Webflow calls for some experience with HTML and CSS.
Do these platforms offer free subscriptions?
Yes, both Wix and Webflow offer free-to-use builders. We should state here, however, that the functionality for both is limited compared to those offered in premium subscriptions.
That’s all for now:
If you've read our Webflow vs Wix comparison review up to here, we are grateful. Remember always to keep abreast of the latest developments on website builders, eCommerce, and other articles, such as the ones below;
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Please share any comments below!