Website Builder vs Web Developer: Which Is Best for Business

Have you just decided that you need a website and are considering how to create it? Congratulations on taking the exciting leap into building your own ecommerce business! This is hands down a significant milestone!

Eventually, you will have two choices: either utilise a website builder or enlist the services of a skilled website developer. When a website builder is a software platform that lets you craft a website from scratch without the need for coding, a website developer possesses the skills, knowledge and extensive hands-on experience to prepare a professional website tailored to meet unique needs.

If you are looking to build a small business website or personal website without highly specialised needs, a website builder will be more suitable for you. But, when it is about creating a standout website, be it for ecommerce or business purposes, hiring a professional web developer is the undisputed option.

However, choosing between web developers and website builders depends on your needs and goals. So, let’s jump into the whole website builder or developer question in detail to break down this dilemma.

Website builder or website developer, which one to pick?

Choosing between a website builder and a professional web developer can pose a challenge, as each option comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Before we explore the pros and cons, here’s a simple comparison table between using a website builder and hiring a website developer.

Criteria	Website Developer	Website Builder
Customisation	Complete customisation, tailored solutions	Limited, template-based designs
Scalability	Provide scalability for evolving needs	It may have limitations as the business grows
Cost	May have higher upfront costs	Generally lower upfront costs
Design control	Complete control over the design	Limited design freedoms
Time and speed	Time may vary, longer for complex projects	Quick setup

Pros and Cons of Using a Website Developer

What are the pros of using a website developer?

1. Highly professional site

When you hire a highly professional web design agency, you will get a high-quality website that is both dynamic and attractive. With proficiency in a range of programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, they possess a deep understanding of crafting custom features for your website, going beyond the limitations of conventional website builders.

2. Ongoing help and maintenance

You will always have a reliable support system in place for any unforeseen issues or future adjustments you might require. The web development team provide routine maintenance services, including addressing bugs, updating plugins and implementing enhancements based on user feedback. This is a huge advantage, especially when you are not web tech-savvy.

3. Customisation

Website developers work closely with clients to understand their brand, target audience, and design preferences to create unique and visually appealing layouts. Otherwise, without a dynamic online presence, your company essentially remains invisible in the contemporary landscape.

Even if your business needs functionalities such as seamless ecommerce integration, contact forms, or user registration, they can be easily achievable by experienced developers.

4. Time efficiency

Professional web developers are well-versed in programming languages, frameworks, and development tools. Their experience allows them to navigate the development process efficiently, avoiding common mistakes and making informed decisions.

5. Integration with various tools and systems

The job of a professional web developer is to stay on top of the latest trends and technologies. As they adopt a scalable design approach, it becomes easier to add or replace components as technology evolves. From integrating APIs to cloud services and platforms to collaboration tools, combining several strategies, website developers ensure that clients have access to cutting-edge technologies.

What are the cons of using a website developer?

1. Costly

Though the investment often pays off in terms of quality and functionality, hiring a web developer can be expensive. This is particularly true if you are looking for high-quality work or specialised skills and if you are a small business or start-up. Also, there are ongoing costs for maintenance, support or updates.

2. High dependency

You have to reply to the developer for each and every change. Relying on the developer becomes a huge concern when quick updates or fast fixes are required. This dependency, while crucial for the smooth functioning of the online presence, can potentially lead to extra expenses.

3. Communication challenges

There is always a risk of miscommunication that may lead to misalignment between your expectations and the developer’s delivery, potentially resulting in a website that fails to meet your needs.

Pros and Cons of Using a Website Builder

What are the pros of using a website builder?

1. Templates and design options

The pre-built templates and multiple design options make building a website easy and accessible. You can select from a variety of professionally designed templates that perfectly match your brand’s style without starting from scratch.

You don’t even need technical skills or experience to establish your online presence. The drag-and-drop functionality simplifies the process of adding and arranging elements on the page, making it accessible for all.

2. Complete control

Website builders provide you with absolute control over every facet of your website—be it design, content, or functionality. This means you can make changes or updates anytime without needing a web developer.

3. Cost-effective

Website builders reduce costs by eliminating the need for a dedicated developer. Users can create and manage their websites independently, saving on development fees. Even web builders often cover hosting, domain registration, and maintenance, saving you time and money while bringing together services and cutting costs compared to buying it from a separate provider.

4. Speed of development

The setup process is designed to be quick. Users can sign up, pick a template, personalise it, and get their site online quickly. Pre-built templates, combined with simple customisation options, greatly reduce the time needed to create a functional website. This is especially advantageous for individuals and small businesses seeking a prompt online presence.

What are the cons of using a website builder?

1. Limited customisation

While taking advantage of pre-designed templates, it is important to remember that you may encounter restrictions in terms of layouts, design elements and functionality, which may result in a website that doesn’t fully match your business goals. This limitation is a big challenge for businesses with specific design or feature requirements.

2. Scalability challenges

As a website expands and demands increased functionality or a more intricate level of personalisation, the website builder may lack more advanced features and customisation options. Users may encounter SEO challenges, data handling challenges or other technical limitations.

3. Lack of professionalism

A website crafted through the use of a DIY website builder might not hold the same degree of professionalism as a custom-designed website. With websites crafted using the same builder, there always remains the risk of uniformity by having the same look and feel.

As both of these options come with their advantages and drawbacks, when weighing the decision between opting for a website builder or engaging a website developer, assess your requirements first while considering the pros and cons.

Key considerations for choosing between two options

In order to weigh the pros and cons of website builder and website developer, here are some questions you can ask yourself to ensure that your choice aligns with your specific needs and goals.

What can you afford to spend on your project?

If you have a limited budget and require a straightforward outline presence, a website builder will be a cost-effective solution. But if your budget allows for more flexibility, try to invest in a professional website builder.

Do you have a deadline to build the website?

If you have a tight deadline or an urgent need to establish an online presence, a website builder might be a more suitable choice. On the other hand, custom development projects often involve a thorough planning and implementation process, which could take extra time. So, if there is no such time limitation, go for website developers, even if it takes more time.

How complex is the project, or do you need expertise?

Do you have a good understanding of web development, design, and the technical aspects of managing a website? If yes, then you may feel comfortable using a website builder. But if you lack technical expertise or have specific customisation requirements that go beyond the capabilities of a website builder, a website developer will be necessary. You can work with expert professionals who will provide support and guidance throughout the process.

Do you have specific design or branding requirements that may require custom development?

Is there any particular design style you prefer? Or any special features you need? If your website needs to involve advanced features, intricate design, or specific functions beyond standard templates, you might need a professional website developer.

But if your website needs only a few static pages with basic information about your business or personal portfolio, a straightforward online presence, or a simple blog, a website builder could be a good choice.

Are you expecting your website to grow and expand in the future?

Keep in mind about your project’s complexity and long-term goals. Website builders often have restrictions on the number of pages, bandwidth or ecommerce capabilities. If you anticipate the need for more features and functionalities as your business grows in future, website developers will be more suitable to meet your evolving needs.

Final words

Between website builders and website developers, there is no such One-Size-Fits-All solution. However, if you are looking for a possible answer, opting for a website developer can be considered wiser for more complex, unique and scalable projects. Of course, the initial development costs may seem higher, but with long-term cost considerations, a custom website definitely offers long-term value. So, thoroughly assess your resources and requirements first and make the decision.