What’s the Difference Between Website Builders?
Before choosing a platform, it helps to understand how these website builders work.
Platforms such as Wix, Squarespace, and Shopify are do-it-yourself solutions that often bundle hosting, design tools, security, and other built-in features into a single monthly fee. Some even handle domain registration, making setup quick and relatively stress-free even if you’re not tech savvy.
WordPress is open-source software and less of a DIY solution. It basically means you choose your own hosting, control your site’s design with a theme and functionality with plugins, and decide exactly how your website grows over time. It takes more setup and technical know-how, but offers far superior flexibility and extensibility.
Each option has its pros and cons. Let’s see how they compare.
WordPress: Best for Dynamic Customization and Long-Term Growth
WordPress is ideal for businesses that want creative freedom, dynamic features, and total ownership of their website.
Because it supports thousands of themes and plugins, WordPress can be customized for nearly any purpose, from blogs and portfolios to membership sites and complex business platforms. When configured and optimized correctly, it also offers excellent SEO potential and grows easily as your business (and SEO) evolves.
That flexibility does come with a learning curve. WordPress requires separate hosting, regular updates, and ongoing maintenance, which can feel overwhelming for newbies. However, for businesses thinking long-term, the payoff is worth it.
Pro tip: At Ruby Moon Designs, we specialize in building WordPress sites that grow alongside your business, without the stress.
Wix: Best for Quick, DIY Websites
Wix is designed for speed and simplicity.
Its drag-and-drop editor makes it easy to build a clean and simple website without touching code, and everything from hosting, security, and tools are included. This makes Wix especially appealing to solopreneurs and small businesses that want to get online fast.
That convenience comes with limits. Customization options are more restricted, SEO features aren’t as robust, and switching templates later can be difficult. Wix works best if your needs are straightforward and unlikely to change much over time.
Squarespace: Best for Coaches and Creatives
Squarespace is known for its clean, modern templates and strong visual appeal.
This platform also includes hosting, analytics, and easy content editing, making it a favorite among artists, coaches, and service-based businesses that value aesthetics. Updates and maintenance are minimal, which is a big plus if time is limited for you.
However, Squarespace isn’t ideal for highly customized or dynamic websites. Third-party integrations can be limited, and advanced functionality can be difficult to implement.
Shopify: Best for eCommerce
Shopify is built specifically for selling online.
It offers secure payment processing, inventory management, and tools that scale easily as your store grows. For product-based businesses, Shopify is one of the most reliable and user-friendly eCommerce platforms available.
That focus on selling can also be a drawback. Monthly subscription costs and transaction fees add up, and Shopify isn’t as flexible for non-eCommerce content or custom layouts.
Which Website Builder Is Right for You?
There’s no single “best” platform. Only the best one for you.
Your choice should reflect your business goals, your comfort level with technology, and how much time you want to invest in upkeep. Some platforms prioritize convenience, while others prioritize control. Knowing the difference can save you time, money, and frustration down the road.
Let’s Build Boldly, Together
Choosing your website platform is just the first step. At Ruby Moon Designs, we help small businesses create bold websites that stand out, whether that means building a custom WordPress site or optimizing the platform you’re already using.
Schedule a free consultation to find out which website builder truly fits your business.
