How hard is website building

Is Webflow Worth the Complexity? 🌐

Webflow is a website building tool that aims to bring design flexibility with control, catering to users wanting to build a website without needing to code.

But is the platform too complicated?

This week, we cover:

• What is Webflow and its features

• What sets it apart?

• Final verdict

Read Time: 2.5 minutes

Core Features
Web design with coding features

Webflow’s major appeal lies in its drag-and-drop design, which is paired with custom HTML/CSS control. This blend allows users to design their website visually without needing to know how to code. It includes a CMS for dynamic content and e-commerce features for building online stores.

Webflow also provides hosting options with built-in SEO settings, simplifying site management. However, while this hybrid approach is powerful, it requires a bit of a learning curve, especially for beginners new to design tools.

Webflow Upgrade
Is it worth upgrading? 💵

In the free plan, Webflow offers limited functionality—one project, no code export, and a Webflow subdomain, making it best for small projects or experimenting with the platform. The upgraded version, which starts with the Basic plan at $18/month, removes project limits, supports custom domains, and allows code export, ideal for serious site projects or professional work.

Webflow performs well overall, with smooth loading times and strong hosting reliability, making it a fit for freelancers, small businesses, and agencies looking to maintain design control with lower costs than traditional web development barriers.

The alternatives
How Webflow Compares

Webflow’s main rivals include WordPress, Wix, Squarespace, and now, Framer.

WordPress offers unmatched flexibility with plugins but requires more setup, while Wix is beginner-friendly but limited in customization. Squarespace is similar to Webflow in design control, though it lacks advanced code options. Framer, a newer contender, takes a design-focused approach similar to Webflow’s but with a stronger emphasis on smooth animations and fast prototyping. For full design control with minimal code, Webflow and Framer currently lead the pack.

Limitations
The learning curve 📈

One of Webflow’s main limitations is its steep learning curve. While it offers the freedom of code-based customization, users without a design background might find it overwhelming.

Webflow’s free plan limitations make it challenging to build a complete site without upgrading. Users also report that Webflow’s e-commerce functionality, while improving, lacks some advanced options available in specialized platforms like Shopify, making it less ideal for larger online stores with complex requirements.

Final verdict
Design Freedom at a Cost? ⚖️

Webflow delivers an impressive balance of design and development freedom, making it a strong choice for users who want both. Its customization and CMS options make it suitable for building highly personalized sites. However, its complexity and limitations may be off-putting for beginners or those who need basic functionality quickly.

If you’re looking for complete control over site design without a heavy coding lift, Webflow’s design-first approach still makes it a top choice.

Sponsored by Synthflow

Automate Phone Calls with Synthflow AI

• Always-on AI voice assistants to automate your calls.

• Book appointments, transfer calls, and extract valuable info.

• Integrates with your CRM, easy setup, no coding required.

Start with a free trial

If you have feedback or new tools that you’d like to share, please let us know by sending an email to [email protected].

See you next week :)