Squarespace vs Wix: Choosing the Best Website Builder for Your Needs
When it comes to website creation, Squarespace and Wix are two of the most popular options available in 2025. Both platforms offer user-friendly tools for creating functional websites without any coding knowledge. However, knowing the difference between Squarespace vs Wix can help you decide which builder best suits your needs.
Written by
- Redaction Team
- Content Creation, Content Marketing, Digital Marketing
Table of Contents
Features and Customization
Key Features of Wix
Wix offers a highly customizable platform with robust tools for building almost any type of website. Some standout features include:
- Wix Editor: A drag-and-drop interface that allows complete control over your website’s design.
- AI Website Builder: Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence) helps you create a website quickly by asking a few questions about your preferences.
- Wix Templates: With over 800 templates, Wix offers more customization options than Squarespace.
- Wix Studio: A newly introduced platform for advanced website design.
- Wix Payments: Enables seamless payment processing for ecommerce stores.
- SEO Tools: Wix includes features like customizable meta tags, alt text for images, and 301 redirects to optimize your site for search engines.
Wix also allows users to:
- Build websites for free (with a Wix-branded domain).
- Add animations, video backgrounds, and advanced elements for a professional touch.
- Utilize third-party app integrations for more functionality.
Key Features of Squarespace
Squarespace provides a more structured and visually polished approach to website creation. Some features include:
- Squarespace Templates: Known for their sleek, minimalist designs, Squarespace templates are ideal for creative portfolios, blogs, and small business websites.
- Built-in Ecommerce Features: Squarespace allows you to create an online store with tools for managing inventory, accepting payments, and more.
- Squarespace Blog: A strong blogging platform with integrated scheduling, tagging, and categorization tools.
- SEO Tools: Similar to Wix, Squarespace provides built-in SEO tools for optimizing your website.
- Email Marketing Integration: Squarespace includes email campaign options in its plans, helping users manage marketing efforts directly.
- Domain Registration: Every Squarespace plan includes a free custom domain for the first year.
Squarespace handles much of the technical work for you, making it a good option for users who prefer simplicity and functionality over extensive customization.
Pricing and Plans
Wix Pricing
Wix offers a free plan, but to unlock premium features like custom domains and ecommerce tools, you’ll need to upgrade to one of its paid plans.
- Plans start at $16/month (billed annually).
- Wix also offers multiple tiers, such as Combo, Unlimited, and VIP, each tailored to different website needs.
- Ecommerce plans start at $27/month and include tools for managing an online store.
- Wix offers more customization options, even in its lower-tier plans, which may appeal to users with complex needs.
Squarespace Pricing
Squarespace’s pricing model is straightforward and does not include a free plan.
- Personal plans start at $16/month (billed annually).
- Business plans, which include more ecommerce features, cost $23/month.
- Advanced Commerce plans, designed for larger ecommerce sites, start at $49/month.
Although Squarespace doesn’t provide a free plan, it does include a free trial, allowing users to test the platform before committing.
Ecommerce Features
Both builders offer strong ecommerce capabilities, but there are differences.
Wix Ecommerce
Wix gives users advanced ecommerce tools that are ideal for growing businesses:
- Multiple payment gateways, including PayPal, credit cards, and Wix Payments.
- Inventory management and real-time tracking.
- Customizable product pages.
- Third-party app integrations for advanced store functionality.
Squarespace Ecommerce
Squarespace also offers solid ecommerce features, with a focus on user-friendly design and functionality:
- Built-in tools for managing orders, inventory, and shipping.
- Integrated payment options.
- Sleek product displays, especially in visually-driven industries.
While Wix offers more customization, Squarespace provides a streamlined approach for users who prioritize simplicity.
Design and Templates
Squarespace Templates
Squarespace templates are a favorite among creatives for their clean, professional aesthetic.
- Focused on visual appeal and responsive design.
- Limited customization options compared to Wix, but this ensures a polished look.
- Ideal for small businesses, photographers, and portfolio websites.
Wix Templates
Wix templates provide a wider range of styles and industries:
- Over 800 templates, offering more options than Squarespace.
- Highly customizable, with drag-and-drop functionality.
- Great for users who want full control over their website’s design.
SEO and Marketing Features
Both platforms include tools to optimize websites for search engines.
Wix SEO
- Built-in SEO tools, including a step-by-step SEO Wiz for beginners.
- Allows users to customize meta tags, alt text, and structured data.
- Wix also allows seamless integration with Google Analytics and Search Console.
Squarespace SEO
- Squarespace provides solid SEO tools, but its approach is less hands-on than Wix.
- Automatically generates clean URLs and optimized site structures.
- Best suited for users who prefer less technical involvement.
Pros and Cons of Each
Squarespace Pros
- Sleek, professional designs.
- Excellent for creative portfolios and small businesses.
- Integrated email marketing and ecommerce tools.
- Simple and intuitive interface.
Squarespace Cons
- Limited customization compared to Wix.
- Squarespace doesn’t offer a free plan.
- Less suitable for advanced ecommerce needs.
Wix Pros
- Extensive template library.
- Highly customizable design options.
- Free plan available for testing.
- Advanced ecommerce and SEO tools.
Wix Cons
- Can feel overwhelming for beginners due to its many features.
- Free plans include Wix branding.
Which is Better: Squarespace or Wix?
Choosing between Wix vs Squarespace depends on your specific needs:
Choose Squarespace if:
- You’re a creative professional or small business owner seeking sleek, professional templates.
- You want built-in email marketing and ecommerce features.
- You prefer simplicity in design and functionality.
Choose Wix if:
- You want extensive customization options and advanced tools.
- You’re looking for a free plan to test the platform.
- Your focus is on ecommerce or building a highly interactive site.
Both platforms are intuitive website builders that cater to different audiences. Whether you choose Wix or Squarespace, both offer the tools needed to create a professional, functional website in 2025.
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