Squarespace vs. Wix for web design
vs.
Squarespace and Wix are both great website builders, but they have key differences in design, flexibility, pricing, and ease of use. Here’s a few thoughts on why we use Squarespace 90% of the time:
1. Is it easy to use?
Wix: known for its drag-and-drop editor and flexibility, letting you place elements anywhere on the page. This is great for users who want total design freedom, but it can make it harder to maintain consistency across the site. The overall UI is a lot more confusing to navigate through
Squarespace: More structured than Wix, Squarespace does have a drag-and-drop editor with its new “fluid engine” but it is still grid-based, which keeps everything aligned and professional-looking but provides less flexibility in layout. Custom CSS can be used for complete customization
2. Design and Templates
Wix: Hundreds of customizable templates, though not all of them are as professional looking as Squarespace's. Once you choose a template in Wix, you can’t switch to another one without redoing your full site design.
Squarespace: Professional, and visually appealing templates, often favoured by creatives (web designers) and small businesses. Templates are automatically responsive to fit mobile and tablet screens. Squarespace’s designs are considered more cohesive and professional.
3. SEO and Performance
Wix: SEO capabilities have improved but generally struggled with SEO due to its reliance on AJAX technology.
Squarespace: Has strong built-in SEO tools and a reputation for better search engine performance out of the box, thanks to clean code and mobile-friendly design.
4. Pricing
Wix: Offers more flexible pricing plans, including a free plan (with Wix ads). Premium plans start at lower prices, with more variation in features based on your needs.
Squarespace: No free plan, but when working with a circle member like myself you can have a 6 month free trial period while designing your website. In general pricing tends to be higher but includes more in-built features and fewer add-ons.
5. E-commerce
Wix: Allows for e-commerce, but its tools aren’t as advanced as those offered by dedicated e-commerce platforms or even Squarespace.
Squarespace: Known for more robust e-commerce features, with built-in tools for inventory management, shipping, and sales tax. Ideal for businesses that want to sell products online with a seamless design and user experience.
6. Support
Wix: Offers phone support to help you DIY your website
Squarespace: Excellent 24/7 live chat and email customer support. They also offer a ton of detailed guides and tutorials.
8. Target Audience
Wix: Appeals to users who want creative freedom and a DIY approach, offering flexibility and customization for businesses, freelancers, and personal sites.
Squarespace: Appeals to creatives, small businesses, and entrepreneurs looking for a professional, polished site with minimal setup and a cohesive design.
When working with a Squarespace Circle Member you will receive 20% off your first year subscription