Top 10 Best Free Website Builders 2021: Expert Reviews & Comparison

What is a website builder?

Essential Features in Free Website Builders

When embarking on the journey of creating an online presence, choosing the right website builder is crucial. Free website builders are a popular choice for those looking to minimize costs while establishing their digital footprint. However, it's important to understand the typical features included in these free services to ensure they meet your needs.

Core Functionalities of No-Cost Plans

• Mobile Responsiveness: The ability to create websites that look great and function well on mobile devices is often a standard feature.
• Drag-and-Drop Editors: These user-friendly interfaces allow for easy page building without the need for coding expertise.
• Limited Storage and Bandwidth: While unlimited storage and bandwidth are ideal, free plans usually include some level of storage and bandwidth that can accommodate small to medium-sized websites.

Marketing Tools Available

"An online presence without marketing is like a ship without a sail."

• Email Marketing: Some builders offer basic email marketing tools to help you reach your audience.
• Social Media Integration: Tools for linking your site to your social media channels are commonly included, enhancing your digital marketing efforts.

Design and Multimedia Support

Visual appeal and multimedia are key to engaging visitors:

1. Most free website builders provide a selection of design themes and templates that cater to various industries and preferences.
2. Embedding capabilities for videos, audio, and images are typically included, allowing for a richer user experience.

Security and Performance

Security and site performance are non-negotiable:

• Security: Look for built-in security features such as malware detection and a web application firewall.
• Speed Optimization: Efficient website builders will optimize for faster loading times, which is critical for user retention.

Additional Aspects to Consider

While not all free builders are created equal, here are some additional features you might encounter:

• Blogging functionality to add dynamic content and engage visitors.
• SEO support, including customizable URLs and meta tags, to help your site rank better in search engines.
• Basic e-commerce tools for online selling, although often limited in free versions.

When selecting a free website builder, it's important to weigh these features against your specific needs. While free plans offer a good starting point, they may also display ads or limit customization options. As your business grows, you might find the need to upgrade to a paid plan to unlock additional features and remove limitations.

Remember, the goal is to create a website that not only looks good but also performs well and provides a seamless experience for your visitors. As you explore your options, consider how each feature will contribute to the success of your online presence. Will the available tools support your vision? Are there any deal-breakers in the limitations of the free plan?

Ultimately, the best website builder for you is one that aligns with your goals and grows with your business. So ask yourself, what does your ideal online presence look like, and how can a website builder help you achieve that vision?

How I Tested the Best Website Builders

Key Factors in Evaluating Top Website Builders

Choosing the right website builder for your business is a pivotal decision. Various criteria come into play to ensure you select a platform that aligns with your needs. Here's a detailed look at the factors we considered when testing the best website builders:

Comprehensive Website Features

• App Market Availability: The range of integrable apps can extend the functionality of your website.
• Blogging Functionality: Essential for those looking to engage with their audience through regular content.
• SEO and Marketing Tools: To help your website rank well on search engines and reach potential customers.
• Domain and Email Services: Professional features that help establish brand identity.
• Site Speed: A critical factor for user experience and SEO performance.

Design Flexibility and User Experience

• Template Quality: High-quality templates set the stage for a visually appealing site.
• ADI Functionality: Artificial Design Intelligence can streamline the site creation process.
• Design Customization: The ability to personalize your site to match your brand is crucial.
• Mobile Editing: With mobile usage on the rise, the ability to edit on-the-go is invaluable.
• User Interface: A user-friendly interface ensures a smooth building process.

Value for Money

"The price of anything is the amount of life you exchange for it." - Henry David Thoreau

Understanding the cost-to-benefit ratio is vital:

• Free Plans/Trials: Opportunity to test the platform before committing financially.
• Average Pricing: Comparing what you get for the price you pay across different platforms.
• Feature Set Versus Cost: Evaluating whether the features provided are worth the investment.

Help and Support

Having a reliable support system can make or break your website building experience:

• Customer Support Options: Availability of help when you need it, through various channels.
• Knowledge Base: Access to a comprehensive library of resources for self-help.
• Restore Options: The ability to revert to previous versions of your site is essential.

Customer Satisfaction and Reputation

What others say about their experience can guide you:

• Review Site Scores: Aggregate ratings from credible sources provide insight.
• Brand Recognition: Established brands often have a proven track record.
• Market Analysis: Understanding the builder's standing in the current market.
• Recommendation Likelihood: The chances current users would recommend the builder.

Ease of Use

For many, the simplicity of the platform is paramount:

• Real-Life Testing: Gathering feedback from actual users to gauge intuitiveness.
• Target Audience: Ensuring the builder suits small business owners and entrepreneurs.

In our quest to find the best website builders, we didn't just rely on these categories. We also put the platforms to the test ourselves, creating demo sites to experience their strengths and weaknesses firsthand. Our goal was to build as authentic a website as possible, considering multiple pages and elements to provide a thorough assessment.

Are you ready to embark on your website building journey? Consider these factors carefully to choose a platform that not only meets your immediate needs but also supports your long-term business goals. Remember, the best website builder is one that resonates with your unique vision and helps you to effectively connect with your audience.

What's your vision for your online presence? Reflect on these factors, and select a website builder that empowers you to bring that vision to life.

Best Free Website Builders

Discover the Optimal Free Website Builders Tailored to Your Specific Needs

Choosing the ideal website builder is a highly personalized decision, with each platform showcasing unique strengths catered to diverse requirements. Whether you're a budding blogger or a small business owner, the digital landscape offers a plethora of free website builders designed to align with your goals. Let's delve into the top contenders and their specialized features.

Top Picks for Varied Online Endeavors

• WordPress.com: A haven for newcomers to the blogging realm, WordPress.com provides a user-friendly interface and a strong foundation for content creation and distribution.
• Weebly and GoDaddy: These platforms shine for those looking to launch an online store, offering an array of tools to kickstart your e-commerce journey.
• Mailchimp: Tailor-made for the solopreneur, Mailchimp extends beyond email marketing, offering a simple yet effective website builder to establish your digital presence.
• Wix: With its versatile design capabilities, Wix stands out as the go-to choice for local businesses aiming to captivate a community audience.

Additional Free Website Builders Worth Considering

1. Wix: Not only is it great for local businesses, but it's also lauded as the best overall, thanks to its extensive range of free features.
2. GoDaddy: Praised for its efficiency, GoDaddy enables you to establish an online presence with remarkable speed.
3. Square Online: Ideal for merchants, this builder offers a robust platform for selling online without incurring costs.
4. Webflow: If you're looking to minimize advertisements, Webflow's free plan is a standout, offering a professional look with limited disruptions.
5. Site123: For hobbyists and small projects, Site123 provides the necessary features to bring your passions to life online.
6. Pagecloud: For those who have a knack for coding, Pagecloud offers flexibility for custom code building, giving you more creative control.

As we sail through challenging economic waters, exploring free website builders can be a strategic move. They offer a cost-effective way to initiate your online journey, granting the freedom to familiarize yourself with the platform before considering a paid upgrade.

Our extensive research and hands-on testing of numerous website builders have culminated in this curated guide, aimed at providing you with precise and trustworthy recommendations. It's imperative to note that while free website builders are a fantastic starting point, they do come with limitations. Advertisements may be displayed on your site, and the range of e-commerce tools could be restricted, potentially impacting long-term growth prospects. Nevertheless, these platforms offer a valuable stepping stone to the digital world.

As you contemplate your digital strategy, remember that each website builder has its own set of offerings and constraints. It's crucial to weigh what each builder does and doesn't provide, ensuring your choice aligns with your immediate and future online aspirations.

Embark on Your Website Building Adventure

Are you ready to take the first step towards establishing your online presence? Consider the unique characteristics of your project and select a website builder that not only meets your current needs but also supports your growth. Which platform will you choose to turn your digital dreams into reality?

Best for Growing Businesses: HubSpot Drag-and-Drop Website Builder

Why HubSpot's Drag-and-Drop Website Builder is Ideal for Growing Businesses

For businesses on the rise, choosing the right digital tools is a pivotal decision. HubSpot's drag-and-drop website builder has garnered a reputation as a top-tier option for such companies. Here's an exploration of the elements that make it stand out:

1. User-Friendly Interface: HubSpot's builder is renowned for its intuitive design. The setup dashboard provides a step-by-step interactive checklist, simplifying the website creation process to the extent that it's accessible even to those with minimal technical expertise.
2. Comprehensive Onboarding: The initial setup includes a workflow bar that guides users through the customization process, ensuring a smooth onboarding experience. This feature is particularly helpful for keeping track of progress during the early stages of website development.
3. Integrated Marketing and Sales Tools: Unlike other website builders that focus solely on the design aspect, HubSpot offers a suite of marketing, sales, and service tools. This integration allows businesses to manage their website and growth strategies all in one place.
4. Custom Domain Connection: HubSpot facilitates the connection of a custom domain to your website, enhancing the professional appearance of your business online. Although the process involves verification steps, the option to use a HubSpot domain is also available for immediate use.
5. Design Flexibility: With HubSpot, you're not locked into a single theme. The ability to switch between themes and blend them allows for a dynamic design approach, catering to the evolving aesthetic and functional needs of a growing business.
6. Advanced Editing Capabilities: The drag-and-drop builder not only simplifies the editing process but also offers advanced options for those with development skills. This includes the ability to upload custom CSS stylesheets, giving businesses the power to fine-tune their site's design.
7. Efficient Content Management: HubSpot's CMS tools are robust and user-friendly, featuring themes, templates, and security measures. The built-in content delivery network (CDN) ensures that your website loads swiftly, providing a better user experience.

Moreover, HubSpot's website builder is equipped with:

• Responsive Themes: Ensuring your website looks great on any device.
• Free SSL Certificate: Adding a layer of security to your site and boosting SEO rankings.
• CRM Integration: Allowing for personalization and better customer relationship management.
• Malware Scanning and Website Monitoring: Keeping your business website safe from potential threats.

"For all of its simplicity and user-friendliness, HubSpot's website builder is more than equipped to handle business-level demands."

Despite these advantages, it's worth noting that the free version of HubSpot does display branding, and custom module development requires familiarity with HubSpot's templating language, HuBL. However, for businesses looking to grow, the trade-off is a comprehensive platform that scales with your needs.

As businesses continue to evolve, the need for a reliable, scalable website builder becomes increasingly critical. HubSpot's drag-and-drop website builder offers a blend of ease-of-use and advanced features that can support the growth trajectory of modern businesses. Whether you're refining your marketing strategy or enhancing your online presence, the flexibility and comprehensive nature of HubSpot's toolset make it a compelling choice for companies aiming for expansion.

Are you ready to explore the possibilities for your business with HubSpot's website builder? Consider how this platform can streamline your operations and amplify your growth potential.

Best for Beginners: WordPress.com

Discovering the Beginner-Friendly World of WordPress.com

Embarking on the journey of creating an online presence can be daunting for beginners. However, WordPress.com emerges as a beacon of simplicity in the vast sea of website-building platforms. Let's delve into the reasons why WordPress.com stands out as the ideal starting point for those new to the digital landscape.

"Brandname.wordpress.com" not only sounds professional but also provides a sense of familiarity and trust in the digital space.

For starters, WordPress.com differentiates itself from its counterpart, WordPress.org, by offering a user-friendly, fully-hosted service that simplifies the initial setup process. This distinction is crucial for novices who are not yet ready to dive into the complexities of self-hosting and content management systems.

Why Choose WordPress.com?

• Cost-Effectiveness: The allure of WordPress.com begins with its pricing structure. It offers a free tier that includes a decent subdomain, making it accessible without any upfront investment.
• Intuitive Setup: The platform guides users through the setup, helping define goals and select themes, thus making the process less intimidating.
• Modern Themes: With a collection of contemporary, mobile-optimized themes, users can easily find a design that resonates with their vision.
• Streamlined Editor: The drag-and-drop page builder is minimalistic, focusing on essential content formats such as paragraphs, headings, lists, and tables, which is perfect for beginners.
• Managed Hosting: Users don't have to worry about the technicalities of hosting and security, as WordPress.com takes care of these aspects.

Despite its many benefits, WordPress.com does have certain limitations. The free version, for instance, displays ads and does not allow plugin installations. Moreover, it lacks the customization depth of WordPress.org and may not be the best fit for business owners with specific needs. Yet, for those just starting out, the trade-offs are minimal in comparison to the ease of use.

Choosing the Right Plan for Your Needs

As you grow more confident in your website-building skills, WordPress.com offers scalable options. Starting at a mere $4 a month when billed annually, you can transition to a premium plan that aligns with your evolving requirements.

WordPress.com's simplicity makes it a great option for beginners just starting to build their first website — no need to fiddle with complicated modules.

When it comes to the diverse landscape of website builders, WordPress.com is heralded as the Best for Beginners due to its straightforward approach and ease of use. It's an ideal springboard for bloggers, hobbyists, and those taking their first digital steps.

While other platforms like Wix or Weebly may offer simplicity, and HubSpot or Webflow cater to more specific needs, WordPress.com remains the go-to for a user-friendly introduction to website creation.

As you embark on this exciting digital journey, remember that the best website builder is one that aligns with your personal or business goals, grows with you, and continues to offer support as you forge your path online. With WordPress.com, you're not just building a website; you're laying the foundation for your digital future. What will your first website look like, and how will it propel you toward your goals?

Best for Ecommerce Websites: Weebly

Unlocking E-commerce Potential with Weebly

Embarking on an e-commerce adventure requires the right set of tools, and Weebly emerges as a strong contender in this arena. Its platform is not just a website builder; it's a comprehensive solution for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to dive into the world of online sales. Let's explore the elements that make Weebly an ideal choice for your e-commerce needs.

Integrated E-commerce Features

One of the standout attributes of Weebly is its seamless integration of e-commerce functionalities. Unlike other platforms where setting up a shop entails additional plugins or third-party integrations, Weebly offers a streamlined process:

• Integrated Payment Gateway: Weebly has built-in support for Square, facilitating secure and convenient online transactions.
• Storefront Themes: The platform automatically prioritizes e-commerce themes, saving you the hassle of searching for the right design.
• Product Listing Tool: A user-friendly tool that allows you to list your inventory and start selling in no time.
• Checklist for Store Setup: Weebly provides a guided checklist to ensure you cover all the bases when establishing your online store.

Design and Usability

Weebly's design capabilities, although offering a somewhat limited selection of themes, are tailored for e-commerce success:

• User-Friendly Drag-and-Drop Editor: Even with a slight lag, the editor is more serviceable than ever, making website customization accessible to all skill levels.
• Rich Content Modules: A variety of content modules surpasses the offerings of platforms like WordPress.com, enriching the user experience.

"Weebly simplifies the path to e-commerce with its all-in-one platform, designed to get your online store up and running with ease and efficiency."

Marketing and SEO Tools

Visibility is crucial in the digital marketplace, and Weebly equips you with essential tools to enhance your online presence:

• SEO Strategy Resources: Weebly provides helpful SEO tools and resources to help your store rank higher in search results and attract more customers.
• Email and Social Media Marketing: With Weebly Promote, you can extend your reach through email campaigns and social media engagement.

Cost-Effective Growth

Starting and scaling your business with Weebly is not only easy but also affordable:

• Free E-commerce Functionality: Even on a free plan, Weebly allows you to set up an online store and sell unlimited items.
• Low-Cost Premium Plans: As your business grows, Weebly's premium plans are economically priced, starting at $10 per month.

Who Stands to Benefit the Most?

Weebly's versatility makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of users:

• First-time e-commerce entrepreneurs who value simplicity and integrated features.
• Established retailers looking to expand their sales channels with minimal overhead.
• Businesses that require a robust online store with physical and digital product capabilities.

Whether you're a seasoned online seller or just starting out, Weebly's platform is designed to accommodate your e-commerce aspirations. With an intuitive setup process, integrated payment solutions, and a host of marketing tools at your disposal, Weebly stands out as a top choice for those looking to make their mark in the online marketplace.

As you contemplate the next steps for your online business, consider the impact of a platform that not only supports your current needs but also grows alongside your ambitions. Weebly's commitment to providing a comprehensive e-commerce solution is evident in its user-friendly design, cost-effective pricing, and powerful SEO and marketing tools. So, are you ready to unlock the potential of your online store with Weebly?

Best for Web Developers: Webflow

Unlocking the Potential of Webflow for Web Developers

Web developers often seek platforms that offer them flexibility, control, and comprehensive design capabilities. Webflow emerges as a robust contender in this space, catering to professionals who crave a more hands-on approach to website creation. Here's why Webflow stands out as an optimal choice for web developers:

Webflow's nuanced control and customizable interface mirror the sophistication of Adobe Creative Cloud, making it an attractive choice for those familiar with advanced design tools.

Advanced Customization and Control

• Complex Workspaces: Webflow's unique offering of multiple workspaces allows developers to manage various projects and client websites efficiently, tailored to specific team roles and permissions.
• Customizable Themes: The platform may have a limited selection of free themes, but they are of high quality and tailored to specific needs, like portfolio websites, enhancing the design process.
• Technical Flexibility: For those well-versed in web development, Webflow's page builder offers the ability to manipulate HTML elements and CSS classes directly, providing a granular level of control over the design.

Designed with Professionalism in Mind

1. Professional Workflow: From the get-go, Webflow presents a setup workflow that resonates with professional developers, allowing them to build websites for companies, clients, or personal use with precision.
2. Learning Through Practice: The platform challenges intermediate users to elevate their skills by navigating through more technical language and concepts like vertical flexboxes.
3. Libraries for Efficiency: Even beginners can find their way with Webflow's Libraries, which offer pre-designed components to streamline the design process without deep-diving into the more intimidating aspects of the tool.

Impressive Design Tools

Webflow's design tools are a testament to its suitability for web designers and developers who prioritize design integrity:

• Responsive Interface: Webflow's interface adapts to various screen sizes, ensuring that websites are mobile-friendly and accessible across all devices.
• Design Assistant: The virtual design assistant provides an in-depth demo, guiding users through the intricacies of the platform.
• Creative Freedom: Users enjoy a wealth of creative control, with customizable features that allow for a tailored design experience.

While Webflow is a powerhouse for web development, it's important to note that it may not be the first choice for absolute beginners due to its complex nature. However, for those with some coding knowledge or a willingness to learn, it offers an unparalleled level of control and sophistication.

Webflow's free plan, while limited, provides a taste of these capabilities, and premium plans start at a competitive price point. Furthermore, its overall score of 3.4 out of 5 in recent research underscores its value, particularly for its design tools which are squarely aimed at web designers and developers rather than novices.

As you consider the right tools to craft your digital presence, remember that choosing a platform like Webflow can significantly impact the efficiency and quality of your work. Whether you're building a site for a high-profile client like Michael Kors or a creative startup like Hologram.io, Webflow offers the robust features and professional finesse that can set your projects apart.

Are you ready to explore the depths of Webflow's capabilities and harness its full potential for your web development needs? The platform awaits your expertise, promising to be a canvas for your creativity and a foundation for your professional growth. How will you leverage Webflow to elevate your web development projects to the next level?

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