The Ultimate Guide to No-Code Website Building in 2024
Ashok Chavada
Web Development
Aug 14, 2023
All you need to know get started with NoCode CMS website builders in 2024.
I had started my career using WordPress but afterward I came to know about Wix, Webflow and Squarespace website builders which allows you to create modern websites without writing a single line of code.
In this article we'll look at what is CMS website, its features and comparison between the top 4 CMS website builders.
In this article:
What is CMS website?
A CMS website is a website built using a content management system (CMS). A CMS is a software application that provides a user-friendly interface for creating, editing, managing, and publishing website content. This allows users who may not have coding experience to easily update and maintain their website without needing to know HTML, CSS, or other programming languages.
Benefits CMS website
Ease of Use: CMS interfaces are designed to be user-friendly, even for those without technical expertise. You can add, edit, and publish content through a web-based interface, similar to using a word processor.
Flexibility: CMS platforms offer a wide range of features and functionalities, allowing you to create different types of websites, from simple blogs to complex e-commerce stores.
Scalability: As your website grows, a CMS can accommodate your needs. You can add new features, functionality, and content without having to completely rebuild your website.
Cost-Effectiveness: While some CMS platforms have premium plans with additional features, many offer free or low-cost options that can be suitable for personal or small business websites.
Top 4 NoCode CMS website builders to consider in 2024
Webflow: Webflow is a powerful NoCode platform that offers a high degree of design flexibility and customization. It has a well-regarded visual editor and built-in CMS capabilities, making it a good choice for users who want a high-quality website with a unique design.
Learn Webflow in 2 hours here.
Wix Studio: Wix Studio is a popular NoCode builder known for its ease of use and extensive library of templates. It offers a drag-and-drop interface and a variety of features, including e-commerce functionality. Wix Studio is a good option for beginners or those who need a website up and running quickly.
Learn Wix Studio in 30 minutes here.
Squarespace: Squarespace is another user-friendly NoCode platform that is well-suited for creating beautiful, professional-looking websites. It offers a variety of templates and design options, along with built-in features such as blogging and e-commerce. Squarespace is a good choice for those who prioritize design and ease of use.
Elementor: Elementor is a website builder plugin specifically designed for WordPress, a popular open-source content management system (CMS). It allows you to visually edit and customize your website using a drag-and-drop interface, without needing to write code.
Comparison between Webflow, Wix, Squarespace, and Elementor
All four - Webflow, Wix, Squarespace, and Elementor (though it works within WordPress) - are popular website creation options, but they cater to different needs and user skillsets. Here's a breakdown to help you choose:
Design flexibility and customization:
Webflow: The winner here. Webflow offers a powerful visual editor with a lot of freedom to design and customize your website. You have more control over code if needed.
Elementor (with WordPress): Provides a good amount of design flexibility within the WordPress environment. You can extend customization with third-party themes and plugins.
Squarespace: Known for its beautiful pre-designed templates and user-friendly design tools. However, customization is more limited compared to Webflow or Elementor.
Wix Studio: Offers a vast collection of templates and a drag-and-drop interface that's easy to use. Customization is more restricted than Webflow or Elementor, but easier than Squarespace.
Ease of use:
Wix Studio: Takes the crown for ease of use. Its drag-and-drop interface with clear menus and features is beginner-friendly.
Squarespace: Another user-friendly option with intuitive design tools and a focus on ease of use.
Elementor (with WordPress): Requires some familiarity with WordPress, but the drag-and-drop interface makes it easier for those comfortable with WordPress.
Webflow: Has a steeper learning curve compared to the others. Its powerful design features come with a bit more complexity.
Features and functionality:
Webflow: Offers a comprehensive set of features, including built-in CMS (Content Management System) for managing website content, e-commerce options, and custom code capabilities.
Elementor (with WordPress): Leverages the vast ecosystem of WordPress plugins, giving you access to a wide range of features depending on the plugins you choose. Can include e-commerce, forms, SEO tools, etc.
Squarespace: Provides essential features like blogging, galleries, and basic e-commerce. Lacks the extensibility of WordPress plugins.
Wix Studio: Offers a good range of features, including e-commerce, email marketing, and analytics. However, the functionality might not be as deep as Webflow or Elementor with plugins.
CMS website cost:
All four Offer free plans with limited features. Paid plans unlock more features, storage, and bandwidth. Pricing varies depending on the platform and chosen plan.
Where can I host my CMS website?
CMS website builders like Webflow, Wix Studio and Squarespace provides default hosting option. But, with Elementor you can choose any hosting provider since you have to install WordPress first then you can use Elementor plugin to create a NoCode website.
Can I use API and Webhooks with CMS websites?
Yes, these days all the CMS website builders provide API and Webhooks so that you can make your CMS website more powerful. You can integrate most of the CMS platforms with Zapier and Integromat to connect with 1000+ apps.
Who Should Use Which CMS website builder:
Webflow: Ideal for designers, developers, or those who want a high degree of design control and built-in CMS. Good for complex websites but requires a learning curve.
Elementor (with WordPress): A great choice for WordPress users who want a user-friendly way to build and manage their website with more design flexibility than the standard WordPress editor. Plugins offer extensive functionality.
Squarespace: Perfect for beginners who prioritize ease of use and beautiful pre-designed templates. Suitable for simple websites like portfolios or small business websites.
Wix Studio: Another good option for beginners or those who need a website up and running quickly with its drag-and-drop interface and variety of templates. Functionality may be limited for complex needs.
Remember, the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities. Consider your design requirements, technical comfort level, desired features, and budget when making your decision.
Get on 45-minutes of free consultation with NoCode website expert. Schedule your meeting here.
