Wix vs WordPress Comparison 2023: Who Wins?

Do you want to skip the read and get right to my winner? Wix the winner within this WIX vs WordPress comparison platform test.

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Introduction to our Wix vs WordPress Comparison:

In this review, we are pitting together two of the best basic builders in the industry: Wix vs WordPress. Both these builders have built a very solid following among both individual entrepreneurs and SMEs.

Now, the big question is this: which between Wix or WordPress works best at meeting the site creation needs of today’s users?

There used to be a rather catchy slogan attributed to a signmaker many years ago which ran “A business without a sign is a sign of no business.” Nowadays, with so many businesses moving to the online arena, you can replace the word “sign” in the first half of the slogan with “website.” 

Whether you’re an SME or a VLE, a website is the best way by which people will get to know more about your company, your products, and your services. In which case, your website needs to look good, be filled with relevant content, and have the right mix of interactive elements to keep customers or clients engaged and interested in what you have to offer.

Fortunately, website builders these days offer an extensive range of tools and plugins with which users can create amazing – and profitable – websites in next to no time at all and with minimum effort.

But which of the two standout website builders works best for you – Wix or WordPress?

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Overview: Why consider Wix or WordPress for your next website build?

The Wix vs WordPress debate will be judged in several categories including ease of use, features and functionality, pricing, and mobility.

Before we get into the meat of this Wix versus WordPress showdown, let’s take a closer look at our two competitors:

Wix:

We can sum Wix’s position in the market in one word: freemium.

Okay, so the portmanteau of free and premium may sound odd, but it perfectly captures the very essence of the site builder: a builder you can use for free and yet with all the functionality of a paid subscription.

Wix has paired this with AI-driven site design technology and a full range of tools and widgets to enable users to create sterling sites. Thus, it’s not surprising that 160 million websites have been built with and hosted on the platform.

WordPress.com:

Essentially a content management system (CMS) builder modified from word processing (which is possibly how WordPress got its name), the platform has been used to build nearly 45 million websites in various languages. The creation of the ecommerce plugin WooCommerce has helped WordPress expand its reach to the online retail industry – a bold move which has paid off with the online stores boom of the past year.

There are actually two sides to WordPress: Hosted WordPress.com and Self Hosted WordPress.org. In this review, we will be looking at the equivalent hosted .com version which has been enabling everyone from creatives to small businesses to create amazing and engaging blogs with diverse forms of content since 2005.

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Ease of Use:

When considering whether to use Wix or WordPress as your online selling platform, ease of use is a key factor.

Wix:

An AI-driven design system is what has elevated the Wix user experience (UI) over the past decade.

The WIX Automated Design Intelligence or WIX ADI is paired together with a systemic framework. This makes the platform highly intuitive, making site creation much easier over time. The ADI attunes itself to the user’s most common actions, and appropriate tools are pointed out as one works.

All in all, Wix ensures that site creation is dead-simple even for those whose knowledge of site building or any form of coding is tabula rasa.

WordPress.com:

WordPress.com has a longstanding reputation for being one of the easiest platforms to use. Essentially, if you can navigate your way through a word processing software, you can use WordPress.

However, unlike Wix WordPress' most recent iteration involves a learning curve – especially if you want to create a truly customised look – as you need to know a bit of coding if you want to modify the site’s CSS or if you’re going to add on third-party applications and widgets.

Winner – Wix! within this ‘Ease of Use' Wix vs WordPress comparison.

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Features and Flexibility:

In terms of features and flexibility when considering Wix vs WordPress, the duel is fairly balanced. Still, we evaluate each contender in terms of their out-of-the-box tools, themes and templates, customisation, integrations, hosting, and backups and migration.

Out-of-the-box:

Wix:

There’s a reason why Wix is considered the world’s favourite site builder: what you see is what you get, especially a drag and drop builder that allows users to lay their site out as they deem fit. Everything is simple and functional, and everything is laid out in plain sight in the builder – you needn’t hunt anything down as its all within your reach. This is in contrast with many site builders where many features are buried deep in the UI, making site building a chore. Wix also takes out the guesswork by presenting a full toolkit that anyone can use right from the get-go.

WordPress.com:

WordPress is that its UI uses a framework similar to standard word processing software, so you can dive right in and start creating. Quite recently, the WordPress.com UI has been modified into a block-based editor (similar, actually, to the one used by popular literary platform Medium) that many new users find easy enough to use.

The platform also offers a number of functional plugins with which users can help enhance the user experience for site visitors. Unfortunately, many of these plugins are available only for those on WordPress.com’s Business subscription plan.

WordPress vs Wix Themes and Templates:

Wix:

Wix comes out swinging with over 800 themes in its in-platform gallery, covering a range of aesthetic and professional categories.

check the latest wix Themes and templates now

WordPress:

WordPress.com currently offers more than 250 themes organised in 26 categories. However, the bulk of these templates were specifically created for blogging – which, in essence, is what WordPress is best for.

check the latest wordpress Themes and templates now

Customisation Tools:

How much control and flexibility does Wix versus WordPress afford the user?

Wix:

Wix’s customisation tools are built into its UI. As a result, you can easily change a site’s look by switching templates and revamping the colours. You can even start over from scratch!

Therefore, it’s quite easy to swap out templates, start over, change the colour scheme, and a whole other roster of aesthetic options.

However, the major red flag with Wix is that you have to be careful in committing to a template because once you select one, it cannot be undone. The platform still doesn't let you switch to another template once the site goes live.

WordPress.com:

WordPress doesn’t offer a drag and drop builder. Yet, it still has a way by which users can preview customisations in real-time. That particular ace is WordPress’ Theme Customizer which allows users to swap out templates and widgets, then see the effect before going live.

If this isn’t enough for you, a third-party tool called Elementor can help users make more elaborate customisations to their sites.

Wix vs WordPress 3rd Party Integrations:

Which platform offers more and better apps integrations – Wix or WordPress?

Wix:

Wix’s in-platform App Market features 300 third-party integrations, including ecommerce solutions, collaborative platforms, communications tools, social media integration widgets, and content feeds.

WordPress.com:

Like Wix WordPress.com allows users to use any number of third-party apps with the platform, but the most notable integrations are with Google, specifically for analytics and productivity (Google Analytics and GSuite.)

Wix vs WordPress Hosting:

What hosting services can you expect from Wix or WordPress?

Wix:

Wix sites are hosted via an extensive content delivery network (CDN) with data centres deployed in various locations to ensure business continuity at all times.

WordPress.com:

Remember what we said about basic site builders taking out the guesswork from site creation? Like Wix WordPress.com offers managed hosting for its users, one that also relies on a CDN for business continuity and stability. It also spares users the hassles of trying to shop for a separate hosting service.

Wix vs WordPress Backups:

If the unthinkable should happen, can Wix or WordPress help you recover what you lost?

Wix:

Wix’s Site History feature allows users to save a previous iteration of the website. Of course, it can only load up the most recently saved version, so users need to manually update once they’re back online. Alternatively you can use a third-party app to help you out like Rewind.

WordPress.com:

The platform offers automated backups managed hosting, and these are done on a regular basis.

Wix vs WordPress Migration:

Suppose you need to migrate your site – can Wix or WordPress make that possible?

Wix:

Use Wix’s built-in Transfer Site function to move sites from one Wix account to another, However, this only works for in-platform moves. There is, as yet, no means for transferring sites from one platform to another within Wix. Instead you will need to source a 3rd party tool or a manual workaround involving exporting .csv files.

WordPress.com:

The migration feature is only available for WordPress.com users on a Business subscription plan or higher and requires the Jetpack plugin. WordPress’ knowledge base has a helpful article that presents the step-by-step process of migrating from a self-hosted site to the managed hosting platform.

Winner – Draw! within this ‘Feature and Flexibility' Wix versus WordPress comparison. Both offer high level features and flexibility.

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Wix vs WordPress SEO and Mobility:

Who is best in a Wix vs WordPress SEO tools comparison?

Wix vs WordPress SEO:

Wix:

Without a proper lookout for search engine optimization, a CMS would fail terribly no matter how good its wireframe or features are. This is an area where Wix stands out compared to other CMS websites.

SEO –ready features are already built into the UI and may be used even by those on a free subscription, though in a limited capacity. Bloggers or publishers can change and tweak attributes, page titles and a variety of headings can be picked.

But be a look for the domain as in a free plan the custom domain is not easily ranked on the search engine. This is a common dilemma with users who have problems when they post pictures which do not reach the targeted audience.

Also take note images will at times generate cryptic tags as (d4cccb26731e9~mv2.png) which messes with the SEO ranking system.

WordPress.com:

WordPress, on the other hand, has lesser options to choose but for a better SEO response.

Unlike Wix WordPress SEO functionality is only available for those on a Business subscription plan or higher, but this actually makes paying for a premium subscription worth it.

It is recommended to intake RankMath plugin for full SEO capabilities. RankMath, in short, is a free, power pack tool which helps users with their Google Analytical integration making your website easily rank on google as well.

Mobile:

How does Wix versus WordPress fare in terms of mobility?

Wix:

Unfortunately, Wix doesn’t have a proprietary app though it can be accessed via a mobile browser. While this is handy in principle, it’s a bit of a pain working with it on a mobile device with a much smaller screen.

WordPress.com:

WordPress has been available for both Android and iOS for years. This has made it a handy tool for blogging and vlogging on the fly. Unfortunately, its greatest strength is also its foremost weakness: it is limited to blog posting as opposed to full-scale site editing and management.

Wix vs WordPress Pagespeed:

Sites that load faster rank better in the search engines – so how does Wix versus WordPress perform?

Wix:

Wix used to be one of the slower loaders, but the creation of the Wix Turbo feature now allows sites on the platform to load within a respectable three seconds.

WordPress.com:

WordPress clocks in at 3.22 seconds on average.

Winner – WordPress! Where SEO and Mobility are concerned in the Wix versus WordPress match, it was a close call, but we yield to WordPress on this one.

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Wix vs WordPress eCommerce Tools:

Whether you choose Wix or WordPress or any other platform the availability of eCommerce tools is absolutely crucial to making the most of your online presence. Both platforms offer extensive choice.

Here are some that those looking to establish an online store will certainly benefit from:

Wix:

Because Wix is a basic site builder, its ecommerce suite is also Spartan-simple. But you cannot deny that it is highly functional: Wix’s ecommerce toolkit features a number of tools for online store management, online and offline marketing, international currency support, shipping schedules, and delivery logistics.

WordPress.com:

WordPress.com bloggers who want to monetise their sites can download the free-to-use open-source plugin WooCommerce. While it does offer various solutions for creating an online storefront using one’s blog as a foundation, it is still quite lacking in advanced features.

Winner – Draw! within our ‘eCommerce Tools' Wix versus WordPress comparison. Both offer easy solutions to get selling online.

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Support and Resources:

A Wix WordPress comparison when it comes to support and resources is again, a close call.

Wix:

Along with expert multi-channel technical support you can contact at any time of the day, Wix also offers an extensively researched, updated, and maintained knowledge base for quick tips and advanced learning on your own.

WordPress.com:

Up close and personal service is what WordPress.com promises its users and the round-the-clock live chat support team is ready to provide what you need. Like Wix WordPress knowledge base is also extensive, well-kept, and offers everything from video tutorials to detailed how-to guides.

Winner – Draw! within our ‘Support and Resources' Wix versus WordPress comparison.

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WordPress vs Wix Pricing:

One of the first things many will look at when considering Wix vs WordPress is the pricing structure.

The reason that Wix versus WordPress price comparisons are so tricky is that they work quite differently.

Wix:

Including their free plan, Wix has seven subscription plans (4 website plans, 3 eCommerce plans).

Each plan is inclusive of hosting, templates, and support but we recommend using the Combo plan as a minimun. Why? The Free and Connect plans might be easy on the pocket, however, you might be frustrated by ad overload.

As stated on their terms of use page, the platform also offers a 14-day-money-back guarantee in the event that you aren’t happy with what you’re getting.

 

WordPress.com:

Like Wix, WordPress .com comes for free. However, if you want additional functionality as well as access to a host of extra features, plans range from the 4 plans available;

Note that features such as the SEO toolkit and the WooCommerce plugin are only available for those in the Business and Ecommerce subscription tiers.

As per their Terms of Service page they also have a 14 day money-back guarantee – provided that you cancel your subscription within 48 hours of the last billing cycle.

Winner – Wix! within our ‘Pricing‘ Wix vs WordPress comparison. It is simply cheaper! In this stage of the Wix vs WordPress competition, we are giving this to Wix. If bang for your buck is what you need, the basic site builder has you covered.

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Wix WordPress Comparison Winner:

Whilst both Wix WordPress are excellent choices for your online presence, we have used and studied both platforms thoroughly and find Wix the Winner within this WIX and WordPress in this comparison platform test.

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Conclusion and Recommendation to our Wix vs WordPress Comparison:

So, to wrap up this comparison – Wix or WordPress for your website?

Choosing between Wix versus WordPress is a tricky task. While we root for Wix, take note that ultimately, your decision should be based on which platform aligns with your current needs, resources, and time.

Therefore, take these important points to heart when making a choice between Wix or WordPress;

What is Wix best used for?

With Wix users win with this builder; super fast and easy to set up with amazing support.

Comparing Wix versus WordPress, this platform is your best bet if you're gunning for a DIY website. If you are a small business with minimal requirements, then Wix will fit the bill.

What is WordPress.com best used for?

WordPress offers flexibility and scalability, but comes with a higher learning curve than Wix.

Those who are seeking to build a website from scratch, crave creative control, and have more complex website requirements will win by choosing WordPress.

Wix WordPress Alternatives:

Here's a list of the best Wix WordPress alternatives to create a website;

Wix vs WordPress Final Word:

Wix versus WordPress? It's a tough call – both are really strong contenders. Yet, as we said, for anyone wanting to concentrate on promoting and building their business over blogging we have to plump for Wix.

We do hope our Wix vs WordPress comparison has helped clarify what both platforms have to offer and made your decision that little bit easier.

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FAQ:

What is the difference between WordPress.com and WordPress.org?

The former is an online site building/blog posting platform built upon a managed hosting framework. You can build a website without having to worry about hosting and maintenance. On the other hand, the latter is a self-hosted platform that is better suited for those with more advanced knowledge about coding and site development.

Can I use Wix for free?

Yes, you can. The free edition of Wix offers a number of features that would only be available on paid plans on other platforms.

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That’s all for now:

If you've read our Wix vs WordPress comparison up to here, we are grateful. Remember to always keep abreast of the latest developments on website builders, eCommerce, and other Wix WordPress alternative comparison articles, such as the ones below;

• WordPress.com Review
• Webflow vs WordPress
• Wix eCommerce Review
• Wix or Squarespace
• WordPress vs Squarespace vs Wix

Please share any comments below!

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