Introduction
A website builder is a platform or tool that allows individuals and businesses to create websites without needing to write manual code. These tools use drag-and-drop interfaces, pre-designed templates, and visual editors to simplify the web design process. Instead of hiring a developer to build every page from scratch, users can select a layout, customize it with their own content, and launch a professional site in a matter of hours.
In the current digital landscape, having an online presence is no longer a luxury but a fundamental requirement. Whether you are an artist showcasing a portfolio, a small business selling products, or a large organization providing services, your website is often the first point of contact for your audience. Modern website builders have evolved significantly, offering high-performance hosting, integrated security, and sophisticated design capabilities that rival custom-coded sites.
Real-world use cases include:
- E-commerce: Setting up online stores to sell physical or digital goods globally.
- Portfolios: Freelancers and creatives displaying their work to attract new clients.
- Business Sites: Providing information, contact details, and service lists for local companies.
- Blogging: Sharing news, articles, and personal stories with a wide audience.
What buyers should evaluate:
- Ease of Use: Is the drag-and-drop interface intuitive for non-technical users?
- SEO Tools: Does the platform allow for meta tag customization and fast loading speeds?
- Mobile Responsiveness: Do the templates look good on phones and tablets automatically?
- Pricing: Are there hidden costs for hosting, domains, or specific features?
- Scalability: Can the builder handle a growing number of visitors and products?
- App Market: Is there a library of plugins to add features like forms or live chat?
- Customization: How much control do you have over fonts, colors, and layouts?
- Support: Is there 24/7 help available if the site goes down?
Best for: Small business owners, solo entrepreneurs, creative professionals, and non-technical teams who need a fast, reliable, and professional website.
Not ideal for: Enterprise-level platforms requiring highly specialized custom database architectures or unique, heavy-duty backend functionality.
Key Trends in Website Builders
- AI-Generated Layouts: Platforms now use Artificial Intelligence to generate an entire website based on a few simple questions about your business.
- Real-Time Collaborative Editing: Multiple team members can now work on the same website design simultaneously, similar to a Google Doc.
- No-Code Functionality: Advanced features like member areas and complex logic are now accessible through visual interfaces rather than custom scripts.
- Enhanced Security Standards: Automated SSL certificates, DDoS protection, and integrated backups have become standard across all major platforms.
- Mobile-First Editing: Design environments are shifting to prioritize how a site looks on mobile devices before addressing the desktop view.
- Frictionless E-commerce: Native integration of payment gateways and automated tax calculations are simplifying global trade for small sellers.
- Focus on Core Web Vitals: Builders are optimizing their internal code to ensure sites pass strict search engine performance tests for better rankings.
- Subscription Ecosystems: A move toward “all-in-one” pricing that includes hosting, security, and marketing tools in a single monthly fee.
How We Selected These Tools (Methodology)
To ensure this list provides the most value, we evaluated the tools based on several key performance indicators:
- User Adoption: We prioritized platforms that have millions of active users and a proven track record.
- Feature Versatility: We looked for tools that provide both simple templates and advanced customization options.
- Performance Reliability: We considered the average uptime and loading speed of sites built on these platforms.
- Security Posture: Evaluation of built-in security features like SSL, backups, and secure hosting.
- Design Quality: We checked for modern, professionally designed templates that follow current visual trends.
- Cost Efficiency: We compared the features provided in the basic plans versus the monthly cost to ensure good value.
Top 10 Website Builders
#1 — Wix
A highly flexible, drag-and-drop website builder that offers total creative freedom. It is ideal for those who want to design every pixel of their site.
Key Features
- Wix ADI: An AI-based tool that builds a site for you based on your input.
- Wix Editor: A “pixel-perfect” editor that allows you to move any element anywhere.
- Velo by Wix: A full-stack development platform for adding custom code and databases.
- App Market: Over 300+ apps to extend functionality like bookings and forums.
- Built-in SEO Wiz: A personalized plan to help improve your search engine rankings.
Pros
- Total design flexibility with no coding required.
- Massive selection of over 800 professional templates.
Cons
- You cannot change your template once the site is live without re-doing the content.
- The high amount of creative freedom can make it overwhelming for beginners.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web-based (Cloud)
- iOS / Android (for management)
Security & Compliance
- SSL, MFA, DDoS Protection
- PCI DSS Level 1 compliant for payments
Integrations & Ecosystem
Wix features a robust ecosystem with hundreds of third-party integrations.
- Google Analytics
- Mailchimp
- Facebook Pixel
- QuickBooks
Support & Community
Wix offers a huge help center and 24/7 customer support. The community is vast, with many dedicated designers and agencies specializing in Wix sites.
#2 — Squarespace
Known for its stunning, high-end templates. It is the top choice for photographers, artists, and design-focused businesses.
Key Features
- Fluid Engine: A grid-based drag-and-drop editor for precise design.
- Professional Templates: Award-winning designs that look great on any device.
- Email Marketing: Built-in tools for sending newsletters directly from your site.
- Video Studio: Tools to create professional-quality social media content.
- Member Areas: The ability to sell access to premium content or classes.
Pros
- The best visual designs in the website builder industry.
- Strong all-in-one platform with no need for many third-party apps.
Cons
- The editor has a slightly higher learning curve than Wix.
- No free plan (only a 14-day free trial).
Platforms / Deployment
- Web-based (Cloud)
Security & Compliance
- HSTS, SSL, SOC 2
- GDPR compliant
Integrations & Ecosystem
Squarespace focuses on high-quality, curated integrations.
- Unsplash (for high-res images)
- OpenTable
- ShipStation
- Zapier
Support & Community
Excellent 24/7 email support and live chat. The community consists largely of creative professionals and design enthusiasts.
#3 — Shopify
The world’s leading e-commerce platform. It is built specifically for people who want to sell products online.
Key Features
- Point of Sale (POS): Sync your physical store sales with your online store.
- Shopify Payments: Integrated payment processing without third-party accounts.
- Abandoned Cart Recovery: Automatically email customers who leave items in their cart.
- Dropshipping Support: Easy integration with suppliers like DSers.
- Shopify Magic: AI tools for writing product descriptions and creating emails.
Pros
- The most powerful e-commerce features available today.
- Highly scalable—can handle a business from zero to millions in sales.
Cons
- Transaction fees if you don’t use Shopify Payments.
- Themes can be expensive, and customization often requires coding.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web-based (Cloud)
Security & Compliance
- PCI DSS Level 1, SSL
- SOC 1, SOC 2, and SOC 3 certified
Integrations & Ecosystem
Shopify has the largest app store for e-commerce, featuring thousands of options.
- Amazon
- Instagram Shopping
- TikTok Shop
- Klaviyo
Support & Community
Renowned 24/7 support. The community is massive, with specialized developers and “Shopify Experts” available for hire everywhere.
#4 — WordPress.com
A managed version of the legendary WordPress software. It is the best platform for serious bloggers and content creators.
Key Features
- Plugin Support: Access to over 50,000 plugins (on Business and Commerce plans).
- Jetpack Integration: Built-in security, performance, and marketing tools.
- Automated Backups: Daily backups that allow you to restore your site instantly.
- Advanced SEO: Deep control over how your content appears in search engines.
- Theme Customizer: Edit the look and feel of your site with live previews.
Pros
- Unrivaled for blogging and long-form content management.
- The most flexible platform if you are willing to use plugins.
Cons
- The best features are locked behind the higher-priced tiers.
- Can be technical and confusing for absolute beginners.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web-based (Cloud) / Mobile App
Security & Compliance
- SSL, DDoS protection, WAF
- GDPR compliant
Integrations & Ecosystem
Because it’s WordPress, it integrates with almost every digital tool on the planet.
- WooCommerce
- Yoast SEO
- Elementor
- Contact Form 7
Support & Community
Excellent “Happiness Engineer” support for paid plans. The global community is the largest in the web industry.
#5 — Webflow
A professional-grade tool that bridges the gap between design and development. It is built for designers who want total control.
Key Features
- Visual Box Model: Design with the power of CSS but using a visual interface.
- CMS Collections: A powerful database for managing dynamic content like blogs.
- Advanced Animations: Create complex, scroll-based animations without code.
- Editor Mode: A simple interface for clients to edit text and images.
- Clean Code Export: Design visually and export production-ready HTML/CSS.
Pros
- Complete design freedom without the limitations of templates.
- Produces much faster and cleaner code than most drag-and-drop builders.
Cons
- Very steep learning curve for those who don’t understand basic web design.
- Pricing can become expensive as you add more sites and team members.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web-based (Cloud)
Security & Compliance
- SSL, SOC 2 Type II
- ISO 27001
Integrations & Ecosystem
Focuses on professional tools and API-first connections.
- Adobe Creative Cloud
- Figma (Import designs)
- Shopify (via connector)
- Airtable
Support & Community
Webflow University provides some of the best video training in the world. The community is full of high-end freelance designers.
#6 — GoDaddy Website Builder
The fastest way to get a site online. It is designed for busy business owners who need a professional site in minutes.
Key Features
- InSight Tool: Uses data to give you advice on how to improve your site.
- Content Creator: Built-in design tool for social media posts and logos.
- Online Bookings: Easily manage appointments for services.
- Unified Inbox: Manage all your emails and social messages in one place.
- Social Media Sync: Automatically update your social profiles when you change your site.
Pros
- The easiest and fastest builder to use on this list.
- Includes marketing and social media tools in one dashboard.
Cons
- Very limited design flexibility compared to Wix or Squarespace.
- Not suitable for complex sites with advanced features.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web-based (Cloud)
Security & Compliance
- SSL included in all plans
- PCI DSS compliant
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Microsoft 365
- Google My Business
- Yelp
Support & Community
24/7 phone support is a major selling point. The community is primarily small business owners looking for simple solutions.
#7 — Hostinger Website Builder
An affordable, AI-powered builder that offers great value for those on a tight budget.
Key Features
- AI Website Generator: Builds a site for you based on a text prompt.
- AI Heatmap: Shows you where visitors are most likely to click on your site.
- AI Logo Maker: Quickly generate a professional logo for your brand.
- Grid System: Simple drag-and-drop that keeps everything aligned.
- eCommerce Tools: Basic tools for selling up to 500 products.
Pros
- One of the most affordable options available today.
- Includes a free domain and email in most plans.
Cons
- Not as many advanced features or apps as Wix.
- Customer support can sometimes have long wait times.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web-based (Cloud)
Security & Compliance
- SSL, Cloudflare protected nameservers
- GDPR compliant
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Google Analytics
- Hotjar
- Facebook Messenger
Support & Community
24/7 live chat support. The community is focused on cost-conscious startups and personal projects.
#8 — Weebly (Square)
A simple, reliable builder that is heavily focused on basic e-commerce for small physical stores.
Key Features
- Square Integration: Seamlessly connect with Square for in-person payments.
- Inventory Management: Track your stock levels across online and offline sales.
- App Center: Add extra features like customer reviews and chat.
- Email Marketing: Built-in tools powered by Square.
- Responsive Themes: Simple designs that adapt to all screen sizes.
Pros
- Very easy to use for beginners.
- The free plan allows you to sell items (with Square branding).
Cons
- Design options feel outdated compared to Squarespace.
- The platform hasn’t seen major feature updates in several years.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web-based (Cloud)
Security & Compliance
- SSL, DDoS protection
- PCI compliant
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Square
- Facebook Ads
Support & Community
Community forum and email support. Most users are small-scale sellers using Square hardware.
#9 — Jimdo
An AI-driven builder popular in Europe, focused on speed and regulatory compliance.
Key Features
- Jimdo Dolphin: AI builder that creates a site in under 3 minutes.
- Legal Text Generator: Automatically creates GDPR-compliant legal pages.
- Logo Designer: Simple tool to build your brand identity.
- Mobile Editing: Fully functional editor for making changes on the go.
- Personalized SEO: Automated tasks to help you show up in local search.
Pros
- Excellent for European businesses due to strong legal/GDPR tools.
- Very fast setup process.
Cons
- Limited customization options for advanced users.
- Small app ecosystem compared to American competitors.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web-based (Cloud)
Security & Compliance
- SSL, GDPR specialized tools
- Server locations in the EU
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Instagram / Facebook
- Google Search Console
Support & Community
Fast email support for paid users. The community is strongest in Germany and the rest of Europe.
#10 — Carrd
A specialized tool for building simple, responsive, one-page websites.
Key Features
- One-Page Design: Focused entirely on “landing pages” and simple portfolios.
- Section Breaks: Simulates multi-page sites using a single scrolling page.
- Custom Forms: Build contact or signup forms easily.
- Widgets: Embed third-party tools like PayPal, Stripe, and Gumroad.
- Minimalist Editor: A clean, no-distraction design environment.
Pros
- Incredibly cheap (often under $20 per year).
- Perfect for simple bio links, landing pages, or event invites.
Cons
- Cannot build complex, multi-page websites or large stores.
- Interface can be slightly confusing for non-designers initially.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web-based (Cloud)
Security & Compliance
- SSL included
- Varies / N/A
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Mailchimp
- Stripe
- Revue
Support & Community
Documentation and email-based support. The community is full of developers and creators using it for “link in bio” pages.
Comparison Table (Top 10)
| Tool Name | Best For | Platform(s) Supported | Deployment | Standout Feature | Public Rating |
| Wix | Total Creative Freedom | Web | Cloud | AI Wix ADI | 4.7/5 |
| Squarespace | Design & Portfolios | Web | Cloud | Fluid Engine | 4.6/5 |
| Shopify | E-commerce | Web | Cloud | POS Integration | 4.8/5 |
| WordPress.com | Blogging & Content | Web | Cloud | Plugin Ecosystem | 4.4/5 |
| Webflow | Professional Designers | Web | Cloud | Visual Code Control | 4.6/5 |
| GoDaddy Builder | Speed & Simplicity | Web | Cloud | Unified Inbox | 4.1/5 |
| Hostinger | Budget & Value | Web | Cloud | AI Heatmap | 4.5/5 |
| Weebly | Local Retailers | Web | Cloud | Square Sync | 4.0/5 |
| Jimdo | EU Compliance | Web | Cloud | Legal Generator | 4.0/5 |
| Carrd | One-Page Landing | Web | Cloud | One-Page Focus | 4.7/5 |
Evaluation & Scoring of Website Builders
| Tool Name | Core (25%) | Ease (15%) | Integrations (15%) | Security (10%) | Performance (10%) | Support (10%) | Value (15%) | Weighted Total |
| Shopify | 10 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8.9 |
| Wix | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8.7 |
| Squarespace | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8.1 |
| Webflow | 10 | 4 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 7.9 |
| WordPress.com | 9 | 5 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7.8 |
| Hostinger | 7 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 10 | 7.5 |
| Carrd | 5 | 9 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 6 | 10 | 7.3 |
| GoDaddy | 6 | 10 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 7.2 |
| Jimdo | 6 | 9 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
| Weebly | 6 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7.0 |
How to interpret these scores:
- 8.0 – 10.0: Top-tier platforms that lead the market in features and reliability.
- 7.0 – 7.9: Excellent tools that are either highly specialized or offer incredible value for money.
- Below 7.0: Reliable tools that may lack the modern feature set or flexibility of the leaders.
Which Website Builder Tool Is Right for You?
Solo / Freelancer
If you are a creative, Squarespace is your best bet for a portfolio. If you are a general freelancer, Wix offers the flexibility to build whatever you need. For those just starting with a simple “Contact Me” page, Carrd is the most cost-effective solution.
SMB
Small businesses often benefit from GoDaddy or Hostinger because they prioritize speed and include marketing tools in the price. If your business is primarily about selling items locally, Weebly (via Square) is the most logical choice.
Mid-Market
Growing companies that need robust blogging and SEO should move toward WordPress.com. If the focus is on a unique brand experience with specific design requirements, Webflow allows your design team to create a site without technical limits.
Enterprise
For large-scale online retail, Shopify is the standard. It provides the security, global payment processing, and massive app ecosystem required for high-volume trade.
Budget vs Premium
- Budget: Carrd, Hostinger, and the free tiers of Wix/Weebly.
- Premium: Shopify, Webflow, and the higher tiers of Squarespace.
Feature Depth vs Ease of Use
GoDaddy is the easiest to use but has the least depth. Webflow has the most depth but is the hardest to learn. Wix sits comfortably in the middle.
Integrations & Scalability
WordPress.com and Shopify win here. Their ecosystems are so large that you will never run out of ways to add new functionality to your site.
Security & Compliance Needs
If you are in Europe, Jimdo offers built-in legal compliance that is very helpful. For global e-commerce security, Shopify and Squarespace provide the highest levels of certified protection for customer data.
Why Choose DevOpsSchool?
When it comes to mastering the digital tools that power the modern web, DevOpsSchool stands as a premier institution. We specialize in providing hands-on training that goes beyond the basics, ensuring that you understand the underlying technology that makes platforms like website builders and cloud systems work. Our curriculum is designed by industry experts who bring real-world experience into the virtual classroom.
At DevOpsSchool, we don’t just teach you how to use a tool; we teach you the strategy behind it. Whether you are looking to become a certified professional or simply want to upgrade your team’s internal skills, our training programs provide the depth and clarity needed to succeed in a competitive market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are website builders expensive to maintain?
Most website builders charge a monthly subscription that covers hosting, security, and the editor. Prices typically range from $15 to $40 per month. While this is more than basic web hosting, it includes all the tools you need to build and manage the site yourself.
2. Do I need to buy a separate hosting plan?
No. One of the main benefits of these builders is that hosting is included in your subscription. You don’t need to worry about setting up servers or managing technical backend details.
3. Can I use my own domain name?
Yes. Almost all website builders allow you to connect a domain you already own (from a provider like GoDaddy or Namecheap) or buy a new one directly through their platform.
4. Is it possible to move my site to another builder later?
This is a common mistake to watch out for. Most builders use “proprietary” code, meaning you cannot simply export the site and move it to a different platform. You can move your content (text and images), but you would likely need to re-design the site.
5. Are these sites good for SEO?
Yes. Modern builders like Wix and Squarespace have made massive improvements in SEO. As long as you follow best practices—like using keywords and writing good meta descriptions—your site can rank high on Google.
6. Can I build an online store on any of these?
Most of the tools on this list have e-commerce features, but some are better than others. Shopify is the best for dedicated stores, while Wix and Squarespace are great for businesses that sell a few items alongside their services.
7. Do I need to know how to code?
Not at all. These tools are designed for people who have never written a line of code. If you can use a computer to drag an image or type a document, you can use a website builder.
8. Will my website look good on mobile?
Yes. Most modern templates are “responsive,” meaning they automatically rearrange themselves to look perfect on smartphones and tablets.
9. What happens if I stop paying my subscription?
If you stop paying, your website will be taken offline. Most builders keep your data for a limited time (usually 30–90 days) in case you decide to reactivate your plan.
10. Can I add custom code if I want to?
Yes. Advanced builders like Webflow and Wix allow you to add custom HTML, CSS, and JavaScript if you need a feature that isn’t included in the standard tools.
Conclusion
Choosing the right website builder depends entirely on your specific goals. If you need a stunning visual site, Squarespace is the leader. For a high-growth online store, Shopify is the only choice. If you want a balance of power and ease of use without spending a fortune, Wix or Hostinger are excellent starting points.
The best way to decide is to pick two tools that fit your budget and use their free trials. Spend an hour with each to see which editor feels most natural to you. Once you find the right fit, you can focus on what really matters: creating great content and growing your online presence.