Choosing the right platform to build your website on can feel overwhelming, especially with the WordPress vs Wix vs Squarespace debate. You’re bombarded with ads for Wix, you hear friends mention Squarespace, and then there’s the 800-pound gorilla: WordPress.
When you’re trying to run a business, this “paralysis of choice” is frustrating. You just want to know: which one is actually best for a UK small business that wants to grow?
As a web design agency that has worked with all of them, we have a strong opinion. But to show you why, let’s break down the WordPress vs Wix vs Squarespace debate in plain English.
WordPress vs Wix vs Squarespace: Renting vs. Owning
The easiest way to understand the difference is with an analogy:
- Wix & Squarespace are like leasing a beautifully furnished flat. It’s easy to move in, everything works, and you don’t need to worry about plumbing. But, you can’t knock down a wall, you’re limited in what you can build, and your landlord can raise the rent at any time.
- WordPress is like owning your own land and building a house. It requires more planning (and often, professional help), but you have total control. You can build anything, from a small bungalow to a 50-storey skyscraper, and it’s a long-term asset that belongs entirely to you.
Here’s a quick comparison table:
| Feature | Wix / Squarespace | WordPress |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use (DIY) | Excellent (at first) | Steeper learning curve |
| Flexibility & Customisation | Limited | Virtually Limitless |
| SEO (Ranking on Google) | Good | Excellent |
| True Ownership | No (You’re renting) | Yes (You own it all) |
| Scalability (Growing) | Limited (You’ll hit a wall) | Excellent |
| Best For… | Hobbyists, brand-new startups | Serious, growing businesses |
The Pros and Cons of Wix & Squarespace (The “All-in-Ones”)
Wix and Squarespace are “all-in-one” website builders. They bundle your hosting, design, and software into one monthly package.
The Pros:
- Very Easy to Start: Their main selling point is the drag-and-drop editor. For a non-techy person, you can get a simple, good-looking “brochure” site online in a weekend.
- Simple & Predictable: You don’t have to worry about hosting, security updates, or plugins. It’s all handled for you.
The Cons:
- You’re Trapped: This is the biggest one. You can’t move your website. If you outgrow Wix, or if they hike their prices, you can’t just pack up your site and move to a new host. You have to rebuild it from scratch.
- You’ll Hit a Wall: The “ease of use” comes at a cost. Want a specific booking system? Need a custom delivery calculator for your e-commerce store? If it’s not in their “App Market,” you’re out of luck.
- Limited SEO: While their SEO tools are much better than they used to be, they still don’t compare to the power and granular control you get with WordPress.
The Power of WordPress for a Small Business
WordPress is an open-source platform. This means it’s built by a global community…
At Atom, we specialise in WordPress. Here’s why.
The Pros:
- Total Ownership & Control: Your website is your asset. You own the files, the data, and the design. You can host it anywhere and move it anytime.
- Limitless Customisation: With a library of over 50,000 plugins, “if you can think it, WordPress can do it.” From advanced SEO tools (like Yoast) to complex e-commerce stores, membership sites, and online learning portals, there are no limits.
- The Undisputed SEO Champion: There’s a reason WordPress powers over 40% of the entire internet. It’s built for content and loved by Google. You have 100% control over every technical aspect of your SEO, giving you the best possible chance to rank.
- It Scales With You: Your WordPress site can grow as your business grows. You can start with a simple 5-page site and, years later, have it running a 10,000-product online store. You’ll never hit a wall.
The Con:
- It’s More Complex (to DIY): This is the only real “con.” For a complete beginner, WordPress is more intimidating than Wix. Its power comes with a steeper learning curve.
Our Verdict: Why We Build on WordPress
This is where the “con” of WordPress becomes the value of an agency like Atom.
Wix and Squarespace are fine for hobbyists or a brand-new solo venture. But our clients are serious businesses that want to grow, generate leads, and see a return on their investment.
We build exclusively on WordPress because it’s a long-term asset, not a short-term rental. It’s the only platform that ensures your website can grow, adapt, and scale with your business for years to come.
You shouldn’t have to rebuild your entire website just because your business becomes successful.
If you’re ready to build a professional WordPress website that acts as a 24/7 lead-generation tool for your business, we can help. Get in touch with us today to talk about your project, or check out our WordPress website services to learn more.
