If you're planning to build a website—from a simple portfolio to a full-featured content platform—you’ve likely been overwhelmed by the number of tools available. Some promise speed and ease, while others offer flexibility and full control.

In this guide, we’ll walk through five popular website building tools: WIX, Squarespace, WordPress, Webflow, and Framer. We've personally used all five across projects at our studio. Each comes with its own strengths and limitations. We'll start from the most beginner-friendly and gradually move toward more advanced tools to help you find your best fit.

WIX – For Simple One-Page Sites

WIX is perhaps the most widely advertised website builder on the market, often marketed as fast and beginner-friendly. It offers a template-based drag-and-drop interface that requires no coding skills.

However, in real-world use, WIX may not be as flexible or easy as the ads claim. You’re limited by the template’s structure, and adding advanced backend features or third-party integrations can be challenging. While it’s suitable for simple websites—like personal resumes or landing pages—WIX may struggle when you need custom interactions or more dynamic content.

Best for: Basic single-page websites or quick prototyping
Limitations: Poor flexibility, weak third-party integration, limited long-term scalability

Squarespace – Clean Templates with Member and eCommerce Features

Squarespace is another all-in-one platform that offers a streamlined interface, beautiful templates, and built-in tools for blogs, portfolios, and even eCommerce. Unlike WIX, it includes features like email marketing (EDM), membership portals, and digital product downloads out of the box.

If you’re planning to create a content-sharing site—like one offering downloadable lesson plans for members—Squarespace can be a great choice.

The main drawback? Multi-language support. Squarespace doesn’t support multilingual sites natively, and implementing one requires third-party workarounds.

Best for: Creators and educators looking to build a content or member-driven site
Limitations: Limited multi-language capabilities, less flexible for custom layouts

WordPress – The Most Powerful, But Requires Setup

WordPress powers over 70% of the websites on the internet. It’s open-source, free to use, and endlessly customizable. You can find thousands of themes and plugins that allow you to create any kind of site imaginable—from news portals to eCommerce stores.

That said, WordPress comes with a steeper learning curve. You’ll need to:

• Set up your own hosting and domain

• Connect the site to a server

• Install themes and configure backend plugins

And while it can be cost-effective in the long run, you’ll need to budget for server fees and possibly design/development help.

Best for: Developers, bloggers, or brands needing full control
Limitations: Time-consuming setup, requires basic technical knowledge

Webflow – Visual Design Meets Developer Control

Webflow strikes a unique balance between visual editing and developer-level flexibility. Unlike WIX or Squarespace, you can access and tweak HTML, CSS, and even custom interactions—without needing to manage a server.

It offers:

• Clean, semantic code

• Responsive control over layout

• Hosting services built-in

• CMS features for dynamic content

Webflow is perfect for designers who want pixel-perfect control and developers who don’t want to start from scratch.

Best for: Designers, freelancers, or agencies needing flexibility without code-heavy setup
Limitations: Learning curve for advanced interactions, higher monthly fees

Framer – The Most Modern, Fastest to Launch

Framer is one of the newer tools on the block, designed with creatives and startups in mind. It emphasizes ease-of-use with a no-code interface while allowing advanced developers to inject their own React or custom code snippets if needed.

Framer offers:

• Real-time previews

• Smart components

• Built-in hosting

• Rich animation support

It’s ideal for teams wanting fast iteration, modern aesthetics, and motion-driven websites.

Best for: Startups, personal portfolios, modern product landing pages
Limitations: Smaller ecosystem than WordPress/Webflow, still evolving

Comparison Table

Conclusion: Which Website Builder Is Right for You?

There’s no universal best—only the best for your project and skill level.

• Just starting or want quick results? Try WIX or Squarespace.

• Need full control and scalability? WordPress remains king.

• Love visual design and want clean code? Webflow is your answer.

• Want something modern and lightning-fast? Framer is your friend.

No matter your choice, the right tool can accelerate your vision from concept to launch. Explore freely, build intentionally, and let the platform support your story.

However, choosing the right platform isn’t always easy—especially if you're juggling technical requirements, design goals, and future scalability. That’s why we invite you to connect with Mwh Studio. With our experience and insight into building websites of all scales and styles, we can help you clarify your needs and guide you to the platform that truly fits your vision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned creative, we’ll work alongside you to shape a solution that’s purposeful, polished, and built to grow. Reach out today and let’s build something extraordinary together.