Finding the Best WordPress Alternatives in 2025: Top Competitors To Look For

WordPress might dominate the web with 43.5% of sites using it, but it’s not for everyone. Maybe you’re tired of constant updates, security headaches, or just want something simpler. The good news is that there are smarter alternatives that balance power with ease of use.

From no-code builders for beginners to advanced platforms for developers, there’s a perfect fit for every need. We’ve tested the top contenders that are considered to be the best WordPress alternatives.

So, in this blog, we are going to discuss these alternatives that are recommended by the leading web development companies. Let’s dive in!

Why Switch From WordPress?

WordPress has been the go-to for years, but it’s not perfect for everyone. Here’s why smart website owners are exploring other options:

• Security Headaches: WordPress sites get hacked often because they’re popular targets. Keeping plugins updated becomes a part-time job, and one missed update can cause big problems.
• Speed Issues: Without expert tuning, WordPress sites tend to run slowly. All those plugins and themes bog things down, hurting your search rankings and user experience.
• Surprise Costs: What starts free often ends up needing expensive plugins, security tools, and developer help just to work properly. The bills add up fast.
• Too Complicated for Simple Needs: If you just need a basic business site or portfolio, WordPress feels like using a rocket ship to go to the grocery store. There are simpler ways.
• Constant Learning Curve: Every update seems to change how things work. Between the block editor, plugin conflicts, and WooCommerce setup, it’s easy to get frustrated.

WordPress is still great for some sites, but it’s not the only option anymore. New platforms have learned from the platform’s weaknesses while keeping the good parts.

How We Test the Best WordPress Alternatives

With inputs from the top WordPress development companies that have been building hundreds of sites, we know exactly where it shines and where it frustrates users. That hands-on experience shaped how we tested alternatives. Here’s what mattered most in our evaluation:

Real-World Testing

We built actual websites with each platform. From simple blogs to full online stores. If we couldn’t create a professional-looking site in under an hour, it didn’t make our list.

Content Flexibility

Can it handle more than just blog posts? We tested:

• Product pages for stores.
• Portfolio displays.
• Membership areas.
• Custom content types.

Setup & Management

We timed how long it took to:

• Launch a live site.
• Add/edit content.
• Make design changes.

Built-In Features

We prioritized platforms that include essentials like:

• SEO tools.
• Security protections.
• Basic analytics.

Growth Potential

Can it scale from a simple site to 500+ pages? We looked at:

• Performance under traffic spikes.
• eCommerce capabilities.
• Team collaboration features.

We tested alternatives for different types of websites, setup processes, and essential features. Our goal was to find options that solve real WordPress pain points while being easy to use and scalable for growth.

The Best WordPress Alternatives That You Can Choose

Let us now discuss the best options that you can use in place of WordPress. Whether you want simplicity, better design control, or built-in eCommerce, these are worth considering.

1. Wix

Wix has become the go-to choice for users who want professional websites without technical headaches. Its intuitive drag-and-drop editor and AI tools make website creation accessible to everyone, while 800+ templates offer design flexibility.

The platform shines for small businesses and creatives who need quick results. With built-in hosting and security, Wix eliminates the complexity of managing multiple services. Recent AI features can generate complete draft sites in minutes.

Pros of Wix

• True drag-and-drop editor: Full design control without coding.
• AI Site Generator: Builds draft websites in minutes.
• 800+ mobile-ready templates: Stylish designs for every need.
• Built-in hosting & security: No separate setup required.

Cons of Wix

• Template lock-in: Can’t switch designs after publishing.
• Storage limits: Lower-tier plans restrict growth.
• Basic SEO tools: Less control than open-source options.
• No multilingual support: Requires add-ons for multiple languages.

Pricing

• Free trial available.
• Paid plans from $17/month.

Best For: Beginners, creatives, and small businesses needing a polished site fast without technical complexity.

2. Squarespace

Squarespace delivers beautifully crafted templates that help users create professional websites effortlessly. Its intuitive interface and built-in features make it ideal for visually driven projects.

The platform excels at combining aesthetics with functionality. All plans include hosting, security, and support, perfect for users who want an all-in-one solution.

Pros of Squarespace

• Stunning templates: Designer-quality layouts for all industries.
• All-in-one platform: Includes hosting, domains, and security.
• Built-in commerce tools: Sell products/services without plugins.
• Reliable performance: Optimized for speed and mobile.

Cons of Squarespace

• Less flexibility: Template designs can feel restrictive.
• Steeper learning curve: The unique interface takes time to master.
• Limited apps: Smaller third-party integration selection.
• Higher pricing: No free plan available.

Pricing:

• Free trial available.
• Basic plan starts at: $25/month.

Best For: Creative professionals, artists, and small businesses that value design quality over deep customization.

3. Webflow

Webflow combines visual design freedom with professional-grade CMS capabilities. It bridges the gap between template builders and custom-coded websites.

The platform gives designers pixel-perfect control while generating clean code. It’s perfect for creating responsive, production-ready sites without traditional development. In comparison to WordPress, it offers some really good design capabilities.

Pros of Webflow

• Visual CSS control: Design with precision, no coding needed.
• Professional CMS: Built-in content management system.
• Clean code output: Exports standards-compliant HTML/CSS.
• Hosting included: Optimized global hosting on all plans.

Cons of Webflow

• Steep learning curve: Not beginner-friendly.
• Pricing complexity: Multiple plans for different needs.
• eCommerce limits: Less robust than dedicated platforms.
• Template scarcity: Fewer starting points than competitors.

Pricing

• Free plan available.
• The basic plan starts at $18/month.

Best For: Web designers, agencies, and marketing teams needing design control without heavy development.

4. Shopify

Shopify is the leading dedicated eCommerce platform for online stores of all sizes. It provides everything needed to sell products, from inventory management to payment processing.

The platform makes launching an online store accessible while offering advanced features for scaling businesses. All technical aspects, like hosting and security, are fully managed.

Pros of Shopify

• Complete eCommerce toolkit: Products, payments, and shipping in one place.
• App ecosystem: 6,000+ add-ons for extended functionality.
• Reliable performance: Handles high traffic volumes smoothly.
• 24/7 support: Help is available anytime via chat, email, or phone.

Cons of Shopify

• Transaction fees: On top of monthly costs unless using Shopify Payments.
• Design limitations: Theme customization requires Liquid coding knowledge.
• Content management: Less flexible than WordPress for non-product pages.
• Cost adds up: Premium themes and apps increase expenses.

Pricing

• A free trial is available.
• The basic plan starts at $39/month.

Best For: Online retailers, dropshippers, and businesses focused primarily on eCommerce rather than content.

5. Ghost

Ghost is a lightweight, open-source platform built specifically for professional publishers and bloggers. It strips away complexity to focus on content creation and audience growth.

The platform combines speed with simplicity, offering built-in SEO and membership tools. It’s perfect for creators who want to monetize content without plugin headaches.

Pros of Ghost

• Blazing fast performance: Optimized for speed and search rankings
• Built-in memberships: Native subscription and paywall features
• Clean writing experience: Distraction-free editor
• Open-source flexibility: Self-host or use Ghost(Pro) managed service

Cons of Ghost

• Limited design options: Fewer themes than competitors
• No drag-and-drop: Requires basic technical knowledge
• Small app ecosystem: Minimal third-party integrations
• Commerce limitations: Not ideal for physical product stores

Pricing

• The starter plan is priced at $11/month.

Best For: Bloggers, journalists, and content creators focused on writing and audience monetization.

6. Hostinger Website Builder

Hostinger Website Builder offers an intuitive, budget-friendly solution for creating basic websites quickly. It combines AI-powered design with straightforward editing tools for hassle-free setup.

The platform is ideal for users who want a functional site without technical complexity. It includes hosting, security, and essential features in one affordable package.

Pros of Hostinger Website Builder

• AI site creation: Generates complete websites instantly.
• Budget-friendly: Lower cost than many competitors.
• All-in-one solution: Includes hosting and domain.
• Beginner-friendly: Simple drag-and-drop interface.

Cons of Hostinger Website Builder

• Limited customization: Fewer design options than premium builders.
• Basic features: Lacks advanced functionality.
• Template restrictions: Less flexibility in layouts.
• Newer platform: Smaller app/plugin selection.

Pricing

• The premium website builder is priced at $11.99/month.

Best For: Individuals and small businesses needing an affordable, simple website quickly.

7. Web.com

Web.com provides a simple, guided approach to website creation for non-technical users. It offers template-based designs with built-in hosting and domain services.

The platform focuses on making website building accessible, with phone support and step-by-step assistance. It’s particularly suited for local businesses establishing their first online presence.

Pros of Web.com

• Hands-on support: Includes phone assistance.
• Domain services: Bundled with hosting.
• Marketing tools: Basic SEO and advertising features.
• Quick setup: Gets simple sites online fast.

Cons of Web.com

• Outdated designs: Templates lack modern aesthetics.
• Upsell pressure: Many add-on offers during setup.
• Limited features: Basic functionality compared to competitors.
• Renewal pricing: Significant price jumps after the first term.

Pricing

• The website plan is priced at $5.99/month for the first month and renews at $19.99/month.

Best For: Absolute beginners and local service businesses needing basic websites with support.

8. Yola

Yola offers a simple, no-frills approach to website building with an easy-to-use editor. It provides basic templates and tools for creating functional websites quickly.

The platform focuses on core website needs without overwhelming users with complex features. It’s a practical choice for those who want a simple online presence.

Pros of Yola

• Easy to use: Intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
• Free plan available: Good for testing basic features.
• Ad-free options: Paid plans remove Yola branding.
• Reliable uptime: Stable hosting performance.

Cons of Yola

• Outdated templates: Limited modern design options.
• Basic features: Lacks advanced functionality.
• Limited eCommerce: Not ideal for online stores.
• Small app market: Few integrations available.

Pricing

• A free plan is available.
• The Bronze plan is priced at $11.95/month.

Best For: Individuals and small businesses needing a simple, no-fuss website solution.

9. HubSpot Content Hub

HubSpot Content Hub is a powerful CMS built for marketers who want seamless integration with their CRM and marketing tools. It combines content management with lead generation and analytics in one platform.

The system excels at converting visitors into customers, with smart content features that personalize user experiences. It’s ideal for businesses using HubSpot’s ecosystem.

Pros of HubSpot Content Hub

• CRM integration: Full synchronization with HubSpot contacts.
• Smart content: Personalization based on visitor data.
• Marketing automation: Built-in workflows and analytics.
• SEO recommendations: Real-time content optimization tips.

Cons of HubSpot Content Hub

• Steep learning curve: Complex for beginners.
• Premium pricing: More expensive than basic CMS options.
• Template limitations: Fewer design options than standalone builders.
• Ecosystem lock-in: Works best with other HubSpot tools.

Pricing

• Free for teams using the HubSpot ecosystem.

Best For: Marketing teams and growth-focused businesses already using HubSpot’s ecosystem.

10. Drupal

Drupal is a powerful open-source CMS built for complex, high-traffic websites. It offers unmatched flexibility for developers and large organizations with specific needs.

The platform handles advanced content structures and multilingual sites effortlessly. Government agencies and Fortune 500 companies rely on its security and scalability.

Pros of Drupal

• Unlimited customization: Full control over functionality.
• Enterprise security: Trusted by security-conscious organizations.
• Scalability: Handles millions of pages and visitors.
• Multilingual support: Built-in translation management.

Cons of Drupal

• Steep learning curve: Requires technical expertise.
• Development costs: Often needs professional implementation.
• Module dependencies: Updates can break functionality.
• Resource-intensive: Demands robust hosting.

Pricing

• Free open-source software.

Best For: Developers, large organizations, and government sites needing complete control.

11. BigCommerce

BigCommerce is a robust, scalable eCommerce platform designed for fast-growing and established online stores. It combines powerful built-in features with customization flexibility.

The platform stands out for its multi-channel selling capabilities and enterprise-grade infrastructure. It’s trusted by global brands needing reliable, high-performance online stores.

Pros of BigCommerce

• No transaction fees: Unlike some competitors.
• Multi-channel selling: Integrates with Amazon, eBay, and Instagram.
• Built-in features: Abandoned cart recovery and product variants.
• Scalable infrastructure: Handles high traffic spikes.

Cons of BigCommerce

• Complex interface: Steeper learning curve than Shopify.
• Design limitations: Fewer theme options than competitors.
• Pricey add-ons: Advanced features require higher plans.
• Checkout customization: Restricted compared to open-source.

Pricing

• Custom enterprise based on your requirements.

Best For: Growing mid-market brands and enterprises needing advanced eCommerce features.

12. Weebly

Weebly offers a simple, drag-and-drop website builder perfect for beginners and small businesses. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to create professional-looking sites quickly.

The platform provides essential eCommerce capabilities alongside standard website features. It’s particularly strong for service-based businesses and simple online stores.

Pros of Weebly

• True drag-and-drop: Easy element placement with visual feedback.
• Built-in eCommerce: Accept payments without third-party tools.
• Affordable pricing: Lower cost than many competitors.
• Mobile editor: Make changes on the go.

Cons of Weebly

• Limited customization: Template designs can feel restrictive.
• Basic SEO tools: Less control than WordPress.
• Square integration: Required for payment processing.
• Template quality: Fewer modern designs than competitors.

Pricing

• A free plan is available.
• The Personal plan starts at $13/month.

Best For: First-time website owners and small businesses needing a simple online presence with eCommerce options.

13. Joomla

Joomla strikes a balance between user-friendliness and advanced functionality, making it ideal for mid-complexity websites. This open-source CMS offers more built-in features than WordPress while maintaining manageable complexity.

The platform excels at community sites and medium-sized businesses needing structured content. Its multilingual support works natively, without requiring plugins.

Pros of Joomla

• Built-in ACL: Advanced user permission controls
• Multilingual ready: No extensions needed for multiple languages
• Content flexibility: Custom fields and content types
• Developer-friendly: MVC architecture for custom solutions

Cons of Joomla

• Steeper learning curve: More complex than WordPress
• Smaller ecosystem: Fewer templates and extensions
• Update challenges: Extension compatibility issues
• Resource-intensive: Requires quality hosting

Pricing

• Free open-source software

Best For: Developers and medium-sized businesses needing more than WordPress but less than Drupal.

14. WordPress.com

WordPress.com offers a hosted version of WordPress, removing technical hassles like updates and security management. It’s ideal for users who want WordPress functionality without self-hosting complexity.

The platform provides tiered plans catering to different needs, from simple blogs to advanced business sites. Built-in features like Jetpack and mobile apps enhance the user experience.

Pros of WordPress.com

• Managed hosting: Automatic updates and security.
• Scalable plans: Options for every stage of growth.
• Jetpack included: Performance and security features.
• Mobile management: Full control via iOS/Android apps.

Cons of WordPress.com

• Plugin restrictions: Limited to approved plugins on lower plans.
• Theme limitations: Custom themes require the Business plan.
• Branding: Free plan shows WordPress.com ads.
• Cost adds up: Advanced features require premium plans.

Pricing

• The Personal plan starts at $9/month.

Best For: Bloggers, freelancers, and small businesses wanting WordPress without technical overhead.

How to Choose from the Best WordPress Alternatives

Picking from the best WordPress alternatives depends on your specific needs, not just features. Here’s how to make a smart decision without being overwhelmed:

Identify Your Core Needs First

Start by listing the 3-5 features your business can’t operate without. An online store needs inventory management and payment processing (Shopify/BigCommerce). Bloggers require SEO tools and newsletter integrations (Ghost/WordPress.com).

Agencies building client sites need white-label options (Webflow). Be ruthless about cutting platforms that miss your essentials, no matter how pretty their templates are.

Match the Platform to Your Skill Level

Honestly assess your team’s technical capacity. Non-technical users thrive with Wix’s AI builder or Squarespace’s guided interface. Marketing teams appreciate HubSpot’s all-in-one dashboard.

Developers needing custom code will prefer Webflow’s CSS controls or Drupal’s open-source flexibility. Remember that choosing something too complex wastes time, while oversimplifying limits growth.

Calculate the True Total Cost

Build a comprehensive cost model that includes all necessary expenses beyond the base subscription. For online stores, account for payment processing fees (typically 2-3% per transaction), abandoned cart tools, and premium themes.

Content sites must budget for email marketing integrations, membership plugins, and potential developer fees. Always compare three-year total costs rather than just monthly rates, as many platforms increase prices significantly after introductory periods.

Test Drive with Real Content

During trial periods, upload actual business assets rather than placeholder content. Import your product catalog to check variant display options, load existing blog posts to test formatting retention, and use real images to assess compression quality.

Pay particular attention to mobile editing capabilities and bulk management tools, as these reveal day-to-day usability challenges. This hands-on testing exposes limitations that feature lists often obscure.

Plan for Future Growth

Evaluate how each platform accommodates business expansion. Can it handle a 5x increase in products or traffic? What’s required to add multilingual support or new sales channels? Document any hard limits on SKUs, pages, or team members that could necessitate a disruptive migration later.

The ideal platform supports your current needs while providing clear upgrade paths for anticipated growth phases without requiring complete rebuilds.

FAQs on Best WordPress Alternatives

Let’s Summarize

WordPress isn’t the only solution for building amazing websites. If you’re frustrated with maintenance costs or complexity, there’s a platform tailored to your needs. From Wix’s drag-and-drop simplicity to Webflow’s design precision, each alternative shines in different scenarios.

The best platform solves your current challenges while leaving room to grow. Don’t overthink it—pick one, test it, and iterate. Your perfect website builder is out there.

If you need help in choosing the best WordPress alternative, we recommend consulting with the best web development companies.