When you are starting your first website, you will often hear about website builders. But what exactly are they, and why do so many people use them?
Put simply a builder is an online tool or platform that helps you create a website without needing to write any code. You use simple drag-and-drop features to add text, images, and other elements, making it much easier for beginners to build a professional-looking site.
Popular examples include Wix, Squarespace, Weebly, and WordPress.com.
Website builders have become very popular for a few good reasons:
No coding skills needed: You can create a full website using pre-designed templates.
Affordable: Many offer free plans or low-cost monthly options.
Quick to launch: You can get a website up and running in a few hours.
All-in-one service: They often include hosting, domain options, SSL certificates, and support.
Website builders are a good starting point if you are setting up your first business website, personal blog, or portfolio.
How Website Builders Work
Website builders are usually browser-based, meaning you log into your account and build your site directly on the platform. You select a template or theme, then customise it by adding:
Text
Images
Buttons
Contact forms
Social media links
Most platforms offer mobile-friendly designs, so your website looks good on phones and tablets too.
Pros of Using a Website Builder
Ease of use: Website builders are designed for beginners.
Templates and design options: You have a range of designs to choose from.
Time-saving: Build and publish your site quickly.
Support and tutorials: Many builders offer great customer service and step-by-step help.
Built-in features: SEO tools, marketing tools, and analytics are often included.
If you read our previous posts about planning your website you will see how these builders help you apply those steps easily.
Cons to Consider
While they have a lot of positives, there are some drawbacks you should be aware of:
Limited flexibility: Customising beyond what the builder allows can be difficult.
Costs can add up: Add-ons, apps, or extra storage often cost more.
Ownership: You are tied to the platform. Moving your website elsewhere can be tricky.
Speed and performance: Some builders load websites slower compared to custom-built sites.
SEO limitations: Although most have SEO tools, some are not as advanced as using a standalone CMS like WordPress.org.
Website Builders vs. WordPress.com
You might have heard of WordPress.com and wondered if it is different.
WordPress.com is a type of website builder, but it is based on the WordPress platform. It offers more flexibility than simple drag-and-drop builders but is still easier than self-hosted WordPress.org.
If you want more control over design and features later, starting with WordPress.com could be a smart step.
Is a Website Builder Right for You?
You should consider using a website builder if:
You want to build a website quickly and easily
You have little or no technical skills
You are launching a simple brochure site, blog, or portfolio
You are testing a business idea or project without committing too much time or money
If you are building a large website with complex needs, you might outgrow a basic website builder in time. However, for beginners, they are a brilliant starting point.
🧠 Final Thought
Website builders have made creating a website more accessible than ever. With no need for coding skills and plenty of beautiful designs available, they give you a simple way to build your online presence.
Choosing the right platform will depend on your goals, your budget, and how much control you want over your site later on.
In the next post, we will look at another option: what a CMS (Content Management System) is and how it differs from a builder.
