When building a WordPress site, one of the first choices is the editor: the built-in block editor (Gutenberg) or a page builder such as Elementor, Divi or Beaver Builder. Both can produce good sites. Here is how to decide for a small business.
Block editor
- Included in WordPress, no extra cost.
- Lighter: less code loaded on the front end.
- Improving fast: block themes, patterns and full site editing.
- Less visual freedom for complex layouts without custom CSS.
Page builders
- Drag and drop with a large library of widgets and templates.
- Very flexible layouts and animations.
- Heavier pages if not optimised.
- Often subscription-based for pro features.
- Lock-in: switching later can be painful.
How to decide
- Simple brochure site, blog, local business: the block editor is usually enough and faster.
- Complex marketing pages with many custom layouts: a page builder may save design time.
- Agency managing client sites: consider maintenance and licensing costs.
Plugins work with both
Choose plugins that offer a Gutenberg block and a shortcode: the block for the editor, the shortcode for any builder. This keeps you free to change editors later. See how to choose plugins.
Speed matters either way
Whatever you choose, avoid heavy sliders, animations and unused widgets. See how to speed up a small business site.
All Woo-Plugins plugins provide blocks and shortcodes, so they work with the block editor and with page builders.
Frequently asked questions
Is Elementor bad for SEO?
No, but heavy pages can be slower. Optimise and test speed.
Can I switch from a page builder to blocks?
Yes, but layouts usually have to be rebuilt.
Do plugins work with page builders?
Most provide shortcodes that work in any builder.