Hand Coded Websites vs Site Builders (Wix, Squarespace etc.)
Establishing an online presence is essential for businesses, freelancers, and creatives. The rise of site builders like Wix and Squarespace has simplified the process, allowing users to create websites with minimal technical know-how. However, while these tools offer convenience and speed, hand-coded websites still reign supreme in many aspects. Here’s why hand-coded websites are a better choice for those looking for a unique, scalable, and high-performance online presence.
1. Customisation and Flexibility
Hand-coding a website offers unparalleled customization. With HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, developers can create any design or functionality imaginable. Site builders often come with limitations; their templates and plugins can restrict how far you can go in terms of design and functionality. Hand-coded websites allow for complete control over every element, ensuring the site can be tailored precisely to your needs.
2. Performance and Speed
Site builders add a layer of abstraction, which can lead to bloated code and slower load times. Hand-coded websites, on the other hand, are optimised for performance. Developers can write clean, efficient code that minimizes load times and enhances user experience. Faster websites not only keep visitors engaged but also improve SEO rankings, as search engines prioritise speed.
3. SEO
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is critical for visibility. While site builders offer basic SEO tools, they cannot match the depth of optimisation possible with hand-coded websites. Hand-coding allows developers to implement advanced SEO strategies, including custom metadata, schema markup, and optimised loading strategies. This granular control can significantly boost a site’s search engine ranking.
4. Scalability and Growth
Businesses grow and evolve, and their websites need to do the same. Hand-coded websites are inherently more scalable than those built with site builders. Developers can easily add new features, integrate third-party services, and expand the website’s capabilities without being constrained by the limitations of a site builder platform. This flexibility is crucial for businesses that plan to scale.
5. Security
Security is a top priority for any website. Hand-coded websites can be more secure because developers can implement robust security measures tailored to the specific needs of the site. Site builders are often targeted by hackers due to their widespread use and known vulnerabilities. Custom code allows for the implementation of unique security protocols, reducing the risk of attacks.
6. Ownership and Portability
When using site builders, you are often locked into their ecosystem. This can create challenges if you decide to move your website to another platform. Hand-coded websites offer full ownership and portability. The code is yours, and you can host it anywhere you choose. This freedom ensures that you are not dependent on a single provider for the life of your website.
7. Learning and Skill Development
For developers and tech enthusiasts, hand-coding a website is an excellent way to improve coding skills. It offers a deeper understanding of web technologies and provides a sense of accomplishment. Over time, this knowledge can be invaluable, opening doors to more complex projects and career opportunities.
Conclusion
While site builders like Wix and Squarespace offer convenience and ease of use, they cannot match the depth of customisation, performance, and control provided by hand-coded websites. For those serious about their online presence, investing in a hand-coded website is a decision that offers long-term benefits in terms of flexibility, scalability, and security. The art of hand-coding is a superior choice for creating a robust and unique web presence.
Ready to start? Contact Fenix Creative today.