As the WordPress block editor introduces more site editing capabilities, many have wondered if it is intended to replace drag-and-drop WordPress page builder plugins.
The WordPress block editor is user-friendly and enables the creation of attractive content layouts. However, it still falls short compared to the robust functionality of page builder plugins.
In this article, we will explore the differences between the WordPress block editor and page builder plugins to clarify their unique features.
Understanding the WordPress Block Editor and Page Builders
The block editor is the standard editing tool in WordPress. It utilizes blocks for various website components, which is why it is called the Block Editor.
When you create posts and pages on your WordPress site, you can utilize the block editor to add and modify your content. The block editor is also applicable to all your widget areas. Additionally, some themes known as ‘block themes‘ now support the block editor for every section of your website.
Since the block editor enables the use of blocks for designing content layouts, it can easily be mistaken for a drag-and-drop page builder.
However, it is still far from being classified as a page builder.
WordPress page builder plugins are drag-and-drop design tools that empower you to create customized WordPress website designs without any coding knowledge.
Leading WordPress page builders such as SeedProd, Thrive Architect, Beaver Builder, Divi, Elementor, and Visual Composer offer significantly enhanced capabilities.
These tools provide pre-designed templates and offer far greater design flexibility compared to the WordPress block editor.
To gain a clearer understanding, let’s explore the key differences between the WordPress block editor and page builders in more detail.
Essential Differences Between Gutenberg and Page Builder Plugins
The primary distinction is that the block editor is integrated into the core WordPress software as the default editing tool.
In contrast, page builder plugins are developed and maintained by independent third-party developers.
The WordPress.org team refers to the default editor as the block editor rather than a page builder, presenting it as a contemporary method for editing your WordPress website.
This distinction is significant, and the differences between the two will clarify why.
1. Compatibility and Support with Themes
The WordPress block editor is largely dependent on the styles of your theme. While it adds some of its own CSS and allows for custom CSS for blocks, it does not override the styles and settings of your theme.
Page builder plugins can integrate with your theme styles, but they also allow you to fully customize a page and override your theme’s default styles.
Some WordPress page builders, such as SeedProd, are entirely independent of themes. This means that pages created with SeedProd will maintain their appearance even if you switch your WordPress theme.
This feature is particularly useful for designing unique layouts across all pages of your website.
2. Blocks and Widgets
The WordPress block editor includes a solid selection of default blocks that encompass all commonly used content elements. You can also save and reuse blocks across different posts and even across various WordPress sites.
It features a robust API that enables plugin developers to create custom blocks. Additionally, all leading WordPress plugins offer their own blocks for you to utilize.
In contrast, WordPress page builders provide an even wider array of blocks.
They include advanced content elements such as carousels, sliders, call-to-action buttons, contact forms, countdown timers, and more.
You can also save individual blocks, rows, or complete templates for future use.
3. Formatting & Styling Options
The blocks in the WordPress block editor come with their own styling and formatting options, although these options are somewhat limited.
To achieve additional styling and formatting, you will need to incorporate your own custom CSS for a block.
In contrast, Page Builders provide a wider range of styling options right out of the box.
You have the ability to modify block background colors, apply gradients, use font icons, choose fonts, adjust line height, change element widths, apply styles to images, and much more.
4. Templates, Patterns, and Sections
The block editor includes patterns, which are collections of blocks designed to quickly add frequently used sections to your WordPress blog.
For example, you can utilize block patterns for headers, call-to-action buttons, columns, and various other components.
Your WordPress theme may include its own set of patterns, and you can also explore and install additional patterns from the WordPress.org patterns library.
If you are using a block theme (themes that support full site editing), you can also modify theme templates. Your WordPress theme might provide templates that can be edited with the block editor.
However, these templates are quite basic and serve the purpose of displaying standard pages found on most WordPress websites.
WordPress page builder plugins typically come with a greater selection of pre-designed templates and sections or patterns.
Unlike the block editor, these sections and templates do not depend on your WordPress theme for styling.
Many WordPress page builder plugins offer a wide range of pre-designed templates that are optimized for high conversion rates.
Additionally, these templates cater to various business types and website needs, allowing for quicker customization to suit your specific requirements.
5. Drag and Drop Functionality
Currently, the WordPress block editor does not function as a drag-and-drop design tool.
While you can add and rearrange blocks, you cannot resize them with your mouse, place blocks side by side, or create intricate layouts.
The block editor includes group and column blocks that help in crafting visually appealing page designs.
In contrast, page builders enable you to drag and drop blocks and widgets, resize them, create columns, and nest blocks within one another.
These drag-and-drop page builders simplify the process of designing individual pages and entire websites.
6. Full Site Editor vs WordPress Page Builders
You can utilize the block editor to modify your WordPress theme, but you’ll need a theme that is compatible with the full site editor to do so.
The WordPress full site editor features global blocks such as query blocks, site logos, navigation menus, and more.
You can customize your theme templates, including the header, footer, homepage, and more.
However, the full site editing feature requires a compatible theme. If you switch your WordPress theme, your changes will be lost.
In contrast, WordPress page builder plugins enable you to design individual pages for your website. They are compatible with any WordPress theme, allowing you to change your theme freely.
WordPress theme builder plugins like SeedProd allow you to create a custom WordPress theme without any coding skills.
You can effortlessly modify any section or page of your theme using the drag-and-drop builder. It also allows you to set conditions for displaying each template, such as showing different sidebars for various sections of your site.
7. Development Objectives
The default WordPress block editor is designed to simplify content creation and website editing for all users, including bloggers, writers, photographers, and businesses.
Page builder plugins provide the tools to create conversion-focused and sales-oriented pages with ease. They are ideal for small businesses, aspiring designers, WordPress agencies, eCommerce stores, and more.
The block editor is designed to enhance content creation, while page builder plugins are specifically tailored for designing high-converting landing pages that can increase sales, attract subscribers, and support business growth.
Is the Block Editor Capable of Replacing WordPress Page Builders?
Currently, the block editor serves as an effective content editor and provides a straightforward way to modify and personalize your WordPress theme.
Nonetheless, it does not yet serve as a substitute for advanced drag-and-drop page builder plugins.
That being said, the WordPress development roadmap includes plans to enhance block editor capabilities and promote comprehensive site editing features.
We will need to observe future updates to assess whether the block editor can rival the functionality of established WordPress page builder plugins.
Which Page Builder Plugin Works Best with the Block Editor?
All leading WordPress page builder plugins are compatible with the block editor. Check out our selection of the top WordPress page builder plugins and see how they compare.
If you seek a user-friendly yet powerful WordPress page builder, we recommend SeedProd. It features a drag-and-drop interface and offers over 300 built-in themes, allowing you to create any type of landing page without needing to code.
This plugin is optimized for performance, ensuring fast page loading times that can enhance your SEO rankings. It seamlessly integrates with popular email marketing platforms like Constant Contact, Drip, ConvertKit, and others.
We trust this article has clarified the distinctions between the WordPress block editor and page builder plugins. You might also be interested in our guide on the costs associated with building a WordPress website, or check out our expert recommendations for the best AI chatbots for small businesses.
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