Navigating the World of WordPress: Block Editor vs Page Builders
When it comes to building and managing a WordPress website, one of the most critical decisions you’ll make is whether to use the built-in Gutenberg Block Editor or a third-party page builder. Both options have their strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs, technical expertise, and the goals of your website.
Understanding Gutenberg
Gutenberg, introduced in WordPress 5.0 in 2018, is the default block editor that comes integrated with WordPress. It revolutionized content creation by segmenting content into blocks, which can be easily added, arranged, and styled without needing any coding knowledge.
Key Features of Gutenberg
- Speed and Performance: Gutenberg has consistently outperformed page builders in terms of page speed. It generates fewer requests, has a smaller page size, and loads faster, making it a winner in the performance department.
- Ease of Use: Gutenberg is designed to be intuitive and easy to use, especially for those familiar with WordPress. It reduces the training time for content editors since they only need to learn one system.
- Cost-Effective: Being part of the WordPress core, Gutenberg is completely free, eliminating the need for additional costs associated with premium page builders.
- Theme Flexibility: With Gutenberg, your content remains intact even if you change themes, avoiding the issues of broken layouts and shortcodes that can occur with page builders.
The Power of Page Builders
Page builders, such as Elementor, Divi Builder, and Beaver Builder, offer a robust set of tools for creating highly customized and complex website designs.
Key Features of Page Builders
- Customization and Design: Page builders provide a vast array of templates, blocks, and design elements that allow for extensive customization. They offer more creative options than Gutenberg, making them ideal for users who need advanced design capabilities.
- Drag and Drop Functionality: While both Gutenberg and page builders support drag and drop functionality, page builders allow for more flexibility in resizing sections and elements, which can be crucial for creating complex layouts.
- Multisite Capability: Some page builders, like Beaver Builder, are particularly well-suited for multisite setups, offering ease of use and maintenance across multiple sites.
When to Use Gutenberg
Gutenberg is the perfect choice in several scenarios:
For Blogging and Simple Pages
If you primarily write posts or need to create simple pages quickly without advanced styling, Gutenberg is your go-to tool. It’s ideal for content creators who focus more on writing than on complex design elements.
For Developers and Seasoned Users
Gutenberg’s Site Editor is more geared towards developers and experienced WordPress users. It offers advanced features like block-based widgets and customizer integration, but it requires a good technical grounding to use effectively.
When to Use Page Builders
Page builders are best suited for the following situations:
For Beginners and Advanced Users Alike
Page builders are excellent for both beginners and advanced users who need to create entire websites without coding. They offer a wide range of templates and design elements, making it easier to build professional-looking sites quickly.
For Highly Customized Designs
If you need to make highly customized designs directly within the CMS, page builders are the way to go. They provide the flexibility to change layouts, headers, footers, and other elements beyond what Gutenberg can offer.
Real-World Examples and Case Studies
Performance Comparison
A study by Template Monster found that switching from a page builder to Gutenberg significantly improved page speed scores. The Gutenberg page scored 99 on the Google Page Speed Test, compared to 84 for the page builder.
Multisite Corporate Setup
For corporate multisite setups, a page builder like Beaver Builder can be highly beneficial. It offers multisite capability, is easy to learn and maintain, and has been around for over 10 years, ensuring stability and continuous support.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Choosing between Gutenberg and a page builder depends on your technical knowledge, design needs, and the specific goals of your website.
- If you prioritize speed, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness, and are comfortable with the limitations in design flexibility, Gutenberg is the superior choice.
- If you need extensive customization options, advanced design capabilities, and are willing to invest time in learning the tool, page builders are the way to go.
Getting Started with Belov Digital
At Belov Digital Agency, we specialize in helping you make the most out of your WordPress website. Whether you choose Gutenberg or a page builder, our team of experts can guide you through the process and ensure your site is optimized for performance and design.
For more detailed guides and resources, check out our blog, where we regularly post tips and best practices for WordPress development.
If you’re looking for reliable hosting to support your WordPress site, consider Kinsta, a top-tier hosting solution that ensures high performance and security.
Don’t hesitate to Contact Us for any questions or to discuss your website needs. Let us help you build a website that stands out in 2025.
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