Many business owners understand that a performing website is paramount to business success! Often the decision is which to choose, Webflow vs WordPress.

Both offer unique features and capabilities, catering to different user needs. At Confetti Design, a Melbourne-based web designers specialising in small business website development, we understand the importance of selecting the platform that aligns best with your business objectives. This article will detail the pros and cons of Webflow vs WordPress.

Considerations for a WordPress website:

• Maintenance Requirements: WordPress requires regular updates for the core WordPress software. This will also include themes that need to be regularly updated and plugins are necessary to maintain security and functionality. WordPress websites need to maintain the latest version of PHP.
• Performance Optimisation: To ensure optimal performance from a WordPress small business website, users need to invest in quality hosting and caching solutions.

Disadvantages of Webflow:

• Limited Third-Party Integrations: While Webflow offers various built-in features, it has fewer third-party integrations compared to WordPress. This might limit the functionality for some users.
• E-commerce Constraints: Webflow’s e-commerce capabilities are still evolving and may not be as robust as dedicated platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce.
• Cost Considerations: Webflow’s monthly pricing can be higher than some other platforms, especially for advanced features and larger projects.

Is Webflow as Good as WordPress?

The suitability of Webflow versus WordPress depends on the specific needs of your project. Webflow excels in providing a seamless website design experience with integrated hosting. This makes it ideal for website designers and those seeking an all-in-one solution. However, WordPress offers flexibility with its extensive plugin ecosystem and can be better suited for projects requiring complex functionalities and integrations.

Is Webflow More Expensive than WordPress?

Webflow’s pricing structure includes several tiers, starting from the Basic plan at $14 per month (billed annually) to more advanced plans like the Business plan at $39 per month (billed annually). While these costs might be higher than some more traditional hosting options, they encompass hosting, security and design tools. For businesses that are prioritising website design control and integrated services, the investment can be justified.

WordPress impacts with PHP 7 End of Life and the Transition to PHP 8

An important consideration for WordPress users is the underlying server technology, particularly PHP. As PHP 7 reached its end of life on November 28, 2022, meaning it no longer receives security updates or bug fixes. WordPress websites that continue to operate on PHP 7 are exposed to unpatched security vulnerabilities, such as CVE-2023-0568, which affects PHP 7 installations.

Upgrading to PHP 8 is essential for maintaining security and performance. However, this transition is significant. PHP 8 introduces major changes that may not be compatible with older WordPress themes and plugins. Also depending on the age and compatibility of your WordPress theme, a complete website rebuild might be necessary to ensure full functionality and security compliance.

WordPress vs Webflow – Our Final Thoughts

Choosing between WordPress and Webflow depends on your business needs, technical requirements and budget. At Confetti Design, we specialise in crafting bespoke websites that align with your unique business goals! Whether leveraging the extensive capabilities of WordPress or the modern design interface of Webflow. Our team of website designers can assist small business owners in navigating critical updates like the transition from PHP 7 to PHP 8, ensuring your website remains secure, functional, and ahead of technological trends.