Best Website Builders for a Professional Site in 2024

Hey there, I know the struggle of trying to build a professional website. It’s overwhelming with so many website builders out there promising the moon and stars. But don’t worry, I’ve been in your shoes and I’m here to help.

I’ve tested more website builders than I can count, and I’ve found the ones that actually deliver. The ones that make it easy to create a stunning site that’ll make your business shine online. And the best part? You don’t need to be a tech wizard or have a huge budget to get started.

So, whether you’re a small business owner, a creative entrepreneur, or just someone who wants to make a killer website, stick with me. I’ll walk you through the best website builders for 2024 and help you find the perfect fit for your needs. Let’s do this!

Best Website Builders for Creating a Professional Site

Hey there, fellow entrepreneurs and small business owners. Are you ready to take your online presence to the next level? I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to build a website from scratch. But fear not, because I’ve got some game-changing news for you: website builders are here to save the day. 

As someone who’s been in the trenches of building websites for my own small businesses, I can confidently say that using a website builder is an absolute no-brainer. Not only do they make the process a breeze, but they also give you the tools to create a professional-looking site that’ll make your competitors green with envy.

Key Features to Look for in a Website Builder

When you’re on the hunt for the perfect website builder, there are a few key features you’ll want to keep an eye out for. First and foremost, you’ll want a builder with plenty of customization options. After all, your website should be a reflection of your unique brand, not a cookie-cutter template. 

Look for a builder with a drag-and-drop editor that makes it easy to arrange your site’s layout exactly how you want it. And if you’re not a design pro, no worries. Many website builders come with a library of stunning templates that you can use as a starting point.

Benefits of Using a Website Builder

Now, you might be thinking, “Why should I use a website builder when I could just hire a web designer?” Well, my friend, let me tell you – using a website builder comes with a ton of benefits that you won’t get with a custom-built site. For starters, website builders are way more affordable than hiring a designer. You can get a professional-looking site up and running for a fraction of the cost. 

Plus, with a website builder, you have complete control over your site. Want to make a quick update? No problem. You can do it yourself without having to wait for a designer to get back to you.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Website Builder

Of course, not all website builders are created equal. When you’re choosing a builder for your small business website, there are a few factors you’ll want to consider. First, think about your budget. While many website builders offer free plans, you’ll likely need to upgrade to a paid plan to get access to all the features you need. 

Look for a builder with transparent pricing and a plan that fits your needs and budget. Next, consider the level of customer support offered by the website builder. If you’re not particularly tech-savvy, you’ll want a builder with top-notch support that can help you troubleshoot any issues that come up.

Top Free Website Builders

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Free website builders? What’s the catch?” Well, my skeptical friend, I’m here to tell you that there are some seriously impressive free website builders out there that can help you create a professional site without breaking the bank. Of course, free website builders do come with some limitations. You’ll typically have less storage space and fewer customization options than you would with a paid plan. And you’ll likely have to put up with ads on your site unless you upgrade.

Limitations of Free Website Builders

While free website builders are a great option for small websites, they do come with some limitations. For example, you’ll typically have less storage space and bandwidth than you would with a paid plan. This means that if your site starts to get a lot of traffic, you may need to upgrade to a paid plan to keep things running smoothly. 

You’ll also have fewer customization options with a free website builder. While you’ll still be able to choose from a variety of templates and customize your site’s layout, you may not have access to all the bells and whistles that come with a paid plan.

Best Free Website Builders for Small Websites

If you’re just starting out with a small website, a free website builder can be a great option. Some of the best free website builders for small sites include: – Wix: Wix offers a user-friendly drag-and-drop editor and a wide selection of templates. Their free plan includes up to 500MB of storage and bandwidth. – Weebly: Weebly’s free plan includes unlimited storage and a variety of customizable templates. 

They also offer a free domain name for the first year. – WordPress.com: WordPress.com’s free plan includes access to a variety of customizable themes and 3GB of storage space. However, you’ll need to upgrade to a paid plan to use a custom domain name.

Upgrading from a Free to Paid Website Builder

As your website grows, you may find that you need more features and resources than a free website builder can provide. That’s where upgrading to a paid plan comes in. With a paid website builder plan, you’ll typically get access to more storage space, bandwidth, and customization options. 

You’ll also be able to use a custom domain name and remove any ads from your site. If you’re considering upgrading to a paid plan, be sure to do your research and choose a plan that fits your needs and budget. Look for a website builder with transparent pricing and a variety of plan options to choose from.

Wix: Best Overall Website Builder

When it comes to website builders, Wix is hands down one of the best options out there. I’ve personally used Wix to build websites for several of my small businesses, and I’ve been consistently impressed with its ease of use and powerful features. One of the things I love most about Wix is its AI-powered website builder. With Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence), you can answer a few simple questions about your website’s purpose and design preferences, and Wix will automatically generate a custom website for you. 

It’s like having your own personal web designer, without the hefty price tag. Of course, if you prefer to have more control over your site’s design, Wix also offers a drag-and-drop editor that allows you to customize every aspect of your site. With over 500 templates to choose from and a wide range of design elements, you can create a truly unique website that perfectly reflects your brand. 

But Wix isn’t just about pretty designs – it’s also packed with powerful features that can help you grow your business online. From built-in SEO tools to e-commerce capabilities, Wix has everything you need to create a professional website that drives results. And if you ever get stuck or have questions, Wix’s customer support team is top-notch. They offer 24/7 phone and email support, as well as a comprehensive knowledge base and community forum where you can get answers to all your website-related questions. 

Overall, if you’re looking for a website builder that combines ease of use with powerful features and excellent customer support, Wix is the way to go. Trust me, your small business website will thank you.

Squarespace: Best for Stunning Designs

Listen up, fellow entrepreneurs and creators – if you’re looking for a website that’s gonna make jaws drop and leave a lasting impression, Squarespace is where it’s at. Trust me, I’ve been around the block when it comes to website builders, and Squarespace is hands down the best for creating stunning, professional designs that’ll make your brand stand out. One of the things I love most about Squarespace is the huge selection of website templates they offer. 

And we’re not talking about your run-of-the-mill, generic templates here – these are advanced designs that are fully customizable to fit your unique style and vision. Whether you’re a photographer, artist, fashion designer, or any other type of creative, Squarespace has a template that’ll make your work shine. But the real game-changer with Squarespace is how easy it is to add and change individual elements on your site. 

Want to swap out a photo? No problem. Need to tweak the color scheme? Easy peasy. With Squarespace’s intuitive drag-and-drop editor, you can fine-tune every aspect of your site to perfection, without any coding skills required.

Customization Options Galore

One of the things that really sets Squarespace apart is the level of customization it offers. You’re not just limited to the basic templates – you can really make your site your own by adjusting fonts, colors, spacing, and more. And if you want to get even more granular, Squarespace lets you dive into the CSS and make advanced tweaks to your heart’s content. 

But even if you’re not a design pro, Squarespace makes it simple to create a cohesive, visually stunning site. The platform offers a range of design tools and features, like the ability to create custom galleries, add parallax scrolling, and even integrate with Adobe Creative Suite. Plus, all Squarespace templates are mobile-responsive, so your site will look great on any device.

Stellar Examples of Squarespace Sites

If you need some inspiration, just take a look at some of the incredible websites that have been built on Squarespace. One of my personal favorites is the site for the fashion brand Rodarte – it’s a perfect example of how Squarespace can be used to create a high-end, editorial-style site that showcases products in a truly stunning way. Another great example is the portfolio site of photographer Heather Hazzan. With Squarespace, she was able to create a clean, minimalist site that puts her work front and center, while still incorporating unique design elements that reflect her artistic style. 

The bottom line? If you want a website that looks like it was designed by a pro (even if you’re not one yourself), Squarespace is the way to go. With its extensive customization options, user-friendly editor, and stunning template designs, it’s the perfect platform for creating a site that’ll make your brand look its best.

Weebly: Best for Ease of Use

Alright, I get it – not everyone is a tech wizard or design pro. And that’s totally okay. If the thought of building a website from scratch makes you break out in a cold sweat, then you’ll love Weebly. This website builder is hands down the easiest to use, even if you’ve never touched a line of code in your life.

 One of the things I love most about Weebly is how quick and painless the setup process is. You can literally have a basic site up and running in minutes, thanks to Weebly’s drag-and-drop editor and library of pre-designed templates. And if you just need a simple, one-page website? 

Weebly has you covered there too, with templates specifically designed for that purpose. But don’t let the simplicity fool you – just because Weebly is easy to use doesn’t mean it’s lacking in features. You can still add all the essential elements you need for a professional site, like contact forms, maps, social media integration, and more. And if you need to add some extra functionality, Weebly has an app center with plenty of options to choose from.

A Gentle Learning Curve

One of the biggest advantages of Weebly is the gentle learning curve. Unlike some other website builders that can be overwhelming with tons of options and settings, Weebly keeps things streamlined and intuitive. The editor is clean and uncluttered, with a simple toolbar that lets you add and arrange elements on your pages with ease. 

And if you ever get stuck or have a question, Weebly offers plenty of support resources to help you out. There’s an extensive knowledge base with articles and tutorials, as well as email and live chat support if you need more personalized assistance. Plus, Weebly has an active community forum where you can connect with other users and get tips and advice.

Real-Life Example: My Sister’s Weebly Site

I’ve seen firsthand how easy Weebly is to use, thanks to my sister’s experience with the platform. She’s a yoga instructor who wanted to create a simple website to showcase her classes and connect with students. Despite having zero web design experience, she was able to put together a professional-looking site in just a few hours using Weebly. 

She started with one of Weebly’s pre-designed templates and customized it with her own photos and branding. She added a schedule of her upcoming classes, a contact form for students to get in touch, and even integrated her Instagram feed to showcase behind-the-scenes photos. The whole process was so simple and intuitive, she was able to do it all on her own without any help from me (and that’s saying something, because I’m usually her go-to tech support.). 

So if you’re looking for a website builder that’s truly beginner-friendly, Weebly is the way to go. With its easy setup process, gentle learning curve, and helpful support resources, it’s the perfect choice for anyone who wants to create a professional website without any hassle.

Shopify: Best for Ecommerce

Listen up, my fellow entrepreneurs – if you’re looking to take your business to the next level and start selling online, Shopify is hands down the best platform for the job. I’ve tried my fair share of e-commerce solutions over the years, and trust me when I say that Shopify is the real deal. First off, let’s talk about how easy it is to set up an online store with Shopify. 

Even if you’ve never sold a single product online before, Shopify makes the process a breeze. With its intuitive interface and step-by-step setup wizard, you can have your store up and running in no time. Plus, Shopify offers a ton of professional-looking themes to choose from, so you can create a store that looks amazing right out of the gate. 

But the real magic of Shopify lies in its powerful features for selling online. From inventory management to payment processing to shipping and fulfillment, Shopify has everything you need to run a successful e-commerce business. And with its built-in marketing and SEO tools, you can easily promote your products and drive traffic to your store.

Unbeatable Features for Online Selling

One of the things that really sets Shopify apart is its robust set of features for online selling. Want to offer discounts or run a sale? Shopify makes it easy with its discount code and gift card features. Need to manage your inventory across multiple locations?

Shopify’s inventory management system has you covered. Want to offer personalized product recommendations or abandoned cart recovery? Yep, Shopify can do that too. But perhaps the biggest advantage of Shopify is its seamless integration with other tools and platforms. 

Whether you want to sell on Facebook, Instagram, or Amazon, Shopify makes it easy to sync your products and orders across multiple channels. And with its app store featuring over 4,000 apps, you can easily add extra functionality to your store, from customer reviews to loyalty programs to advanced reporting.

Transparent Pricing and No Hidden Fees

Another thing I love about Shopify? Its transparent pricing and lack of hidden fees. Unlike some other e-commerce platforms that nickel-and-dime you with transaction fees and other charges, Shopify offers straightforward pricing plans that include everything you need to run your store. And while there is a small transaction fee for using external payment gateways, Shopify waives this fee if you use its own payment processing system, Shopify Payments. 

But don’t just take my word for it – some of the biggest names in e-commerce are powered by Shopify. Brands like Kylie Cosmetics, Allbirds, and Gymshark all trust Shopify to run their online stores, and for good reason. With its unbeatable features, seamless integrations, and transparent pricing, Shopify is the go-to choice for anyone looking to sell online. 

So if you’re ready to take your business to the next level and start selling products online, give Shopify a try. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed. With its easy setup process, powerful features, and unbeatable integrations, Shopify is hands down the best platform for e-commerce success.

WordPress: Best for Flexibility and Customization

If you’re looking for a website builder that offers unparalleled flexibility and customization options, WordPress is the way to go. As a content management system (CMS), WordPress provides a wide range of themes, plugins, and tools to create highly functional and unique websites.

Now, I know what you might be thinking – “But doesn’t WordPress require more technical knowledge compared to other website builders?” And you’re right, it does. But hear me out.

The beauty of WordPress lies in its versatility. Whether you’re a blogger, a small business owner, or a full-fledged e-commerce store, WordPress has got you covered. With its extensive library of themes and plugins, you can customize your site to your heart’s content.

Want to optimize your site for search engines? No problem. WordPress offers a variety of SEO plugins like Yoast SEO and All in One SEO Pack that make it easy to fine-tune your site’s SEO settings. These plugins help you optimize your page titles, meta descriptions, and keywords, ensuring that your site ranks well in search engine results pages (SERPs).

But what if you’re not an SEO expert? Don’t worry, WordPress has got your back. Even with limited SEO knowledge, you can still create a search engine-friendly website by following WordPress’ built-in best practices and using its user-friendly tools.

One of the things I love most about WordPress is its community. With a massive user base and a thriving ecosystem of developers, you’ll never be short on resources or support. Whether you need help troubleshooting an issue or want to learn how to create a custom plugin, the WordPress community is always there to lend a helping hand.

So, if you’re willing to put in a little extra effort to learn the ropes, WordPress can be an incredibly powerful tool for creating a website that truly reflects your unique style and vision.

GoDaddy: Best for Quick Setup

If you’re looking for a website builder that offers a quick and easy setup process, GoDaddy might be just what you need. Known for its user-friendly interface and simple drag-and-drop editor, GoDaddy makes it easy for even the most technologically challenged among us to create a professional-looking website in no time.

One of the things that sets GoDaddy apart is its focus on helping you get online quickly. When you sign up for a GoDaddy account, you’re guided through a simple setup process that helps you choose a template, customize your site’s design, and add your own content. And if you get stuck along the way, GoDaddy’s customer support team is always just a phone call or chat message away.

But GoDaddy isn’t just about speed – it’s also about value. When you sign up for a GoDaddy website builder plan, you get access to a wide range of features and tools, including a free domain name, email hosting, and even basic SEO tools to help you get found online.

Speaking of domain names, GoDaddy is one of the largest domain registrars in the world, with over 84 million domain names under management. So, if you’re looking to create a website with a custom domain name, GoDaddy is definitely worth considering.

Of course, like any website builder, GoDaddy has its limitations. If you’re looking for advanced design customization options or e-commerce functionality, you might find GoDaddy’s tools a bit lacking. But for simple websites like blogs, portfolios, or brochure sites, GoDaddy is a solid choice.

One thing to keep in mind with GoDaddy is that while its hosting services are generally reliable, some users have reported issues with site speed and uptime. But in my experience, these issues are relatively rare and can often be resolved with a quick call to customer support.

Overall, if you’re looking for a website builder that prioritizes simplicity and ease of use, GoDaddy is definitely worth checking out. With its user-friendly interface, helpful setup process, and affordable pricing plans, it’s a great option for anyone looking to get online quickly and easily.

Additional Website Builders to Consider

While the website builders we’ve covered so far are some of the most popular and well-known options out there, they’re certainly not the only ones worth considering. In fact, there are a number of other website builders that offer unique features and capabilities that might be a better fit for your specific needs.

Here are a few additional website builders to keep on your radar:

Zyro

Zyro is a relative newcomer to the website builder scene, but it’s quickly making a name for itself thanks to its user-friendly interface and AI-powered tools. With Zyro, you can create a professional-looking website in minutes, even if you have no prior design or coding experience.

One of the standout features of Zyro is its AI writer, which can help you generate high-quality content for your website based on a few simple prompts. Whether you need product descriptions, blog posts, or just some general website copy, Zyro’s AI writer can help you get the job done quickly and easily.

Jimdo

Jimdo is another user-friendly website builder that’s perfect for small businesses and individuals looking to create a simple, no-fuss website. With Jimdo, you can choose from a variety of templates and customize them to fit your brand and style.

One of the things I like about Jimdo is its focus on mobile-friendliness. All of Jimdo’s templates are designed to look great on any device, from desktop computers to smartphones and tablets. So, if you’re looking to create a website that looks great and functions well on mobile, Jimdo is definitely worth considering.

Duda

Duda is a website builder that’s geared towards web design professionals and agencies. With Duda, you can create custom, responsive websites for your clients quickly and easily, without sacrificing design quality or functionality.

One of the standout features of Duda is its focus on collaboration. With Duda’s team collaboration tools, you can easily work with your clients and team members to create and manage websites, all from a single, centralized platform.

Strikingly

Finally, there’s Strikingly, a website builder that’s perfect for creating simple, one-page websites. With Strikingly, you can create a beautiful, responsive website in just a few clicks, without any coding or design experience required.

One of the things I love about Strikingly is its focus on simplicity. With Strikingly, you don’t have to worry about complex navigation menus or multi-page layouts – everything is contained within a single, scrollable page. This makes it easy to create a website that’s both visually appealing and easy to navigate.

Of course, these are just a few of the many website builders out there. Whether you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss builder like Google Sites or a more advanced platform like HubSpot CMS, there’s sure to be a builder out there that meets your needs.

The key is to take the time to research your options and find the builder that offers the right combination of features, pricing, and ease of use for your specific situation. With a little bit of research and experimentation, you’re sure to find the perfect website builder to help you create the website of your dreams.

Choosing the Right Website Builder for Your Needs

With so many website builders out there, how do you choose the right one for your specific needs? It all comes down to understanding your goals, assessing your skills, and considering your budget. Trust me, I’ve been there – and I’ve learned a thing or two along the way.

First things first: what’s the purpose of your website? Are you looking to showcase your portfolio, sell products online, or establish a professional online presence for your business? Different website builders cater to different needs, so it’s crucial to have a clear vision in mind.

Determining Your Website Goals

When I first started building websites, I made the mistake of diving in headfirst without a solid plan. Don’t be like me. Take some time to define your website goals. Are you aiming to generate leads, educate your audience, or create an online store? Having a clear purpose will guide your decision-making process.

Consider the features you’ll need to achieve those goals. Will you require e-commerce functionality, blogging capabilities, or business templates? Make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves to help narrow down your options.

Assessing Your Technical Skills

Be honest with yourself about your technical abilities. Are you a coding whiz, or do you break out in a cold sweat at the thought of HTML? Some website builders are geared towards beginners, while others offer more advanced customization options for those with coding chops.

If you’re a newbie, look for a website builder with a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface and plenty of pre-designed templates. Trust me, there’s no shame in using a template – it’s a smart way to get a professional-looking site up and running quickly.

Considering Your Budget

Website builders offer a range of pricing plans, from free options to premium packages with all the bells and whistles. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, consider the long-term costs and potential limitations.

Free plans often come with ads, limited storage, and restricted features. If you’re serious about your website, investing in a paid plan can give you access to more services offered, such as custom domains, e-commerce tools, and priority support. Trust me, it’s worth it in the long run.

Tips for Building a Successful Website

Alright, so you’ve chosen your website builder – now what? Building a successful website takes more than just picking the right platform. It’s about creating a user-friendly, search engine-optimized, and engaging online presence. Here are some tips to help you knock it out of the park.

Choosing a Domain Name

Your domain name is your website’s address on the internet. It’s how people will find you, so choose wisely. Opt for a custom domain that’s memorable, easy to spell, and relevant to your brand. Avoid hyphens, numbers, and anything too lengthy – keep it simple and straightforward.

Optimizing for Search Engines

Want to get found on Google? Of course you do. Optimizing your website for search engines is crucial for driving organic traffic. Start by researching relevant keywords and incorporating them naturally into your content. Use descriptive page titles, headers, and meta descriptions to help search engines understand what your site is all about.

Don’t forget about technical SEO elements like SSL certificates and mobile-friendliness. Many website builders offer built-in SEO tools to help you optimize your site, so take advantage of them.

Integrating Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for driving traffic and engagement to your website. Integrate social sharing buttons to make it easy for visitors to share your content. Consider embedding your social media feeds on your site to keep your content fresh and encourage followers to engage with your brand.

Utilizing Email Marketing

Email marketing is a tried-and-true method for nurturing leads and keeping your audience engaged. Many website builders offer built-in email marketing tools or integrations with popular platforms like Mailchimp. Collect email addresses through opt-in forms on your site, and send regular newsletters, promotions, and valuable content to keep your subscribers coming back for more.

Providing Excellent Customer Support

If you’re running a business website, providing top-notch customer support is non-negotiable. Make it easy for visitors to contact you by including clear calls-to-action, contact forms, and multiple communication channels. Respond promptly to inquiries and go above and beyond to resolve any issues – your customers will thank you for it.

Website Builder Pricing and Plans

Let’s talk money, honey. Website builder pricing can vary widely depending on the platform and the features you need. While free plans are tempting, they often come with limitations that can hinder your website’s growth. Trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way.

Most website builders offer a range of paid plans, from basic options to premium packages loaded with advanced features. Expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $50 per month, depending on your needs.

Some common features you’ll find in premium plans include unlimited storage, custom domains, e-commerce functionality, and priority support. If you’re running an online store or expecting high traffic volumes, investing in a higher-tier plan is a smart move.

Keep an eye out for pricing structures and billing cycles. Some website builders offer monthly billing, while others require annual commitments for the best deals. If a platform offers a free trial, take advantage of it to test drive the features before committing to a paid plan.

Remember, your website is an investment in your online presence. Don’t be afraid to spend a little extra for the features and support you need to succeed. Trust me, it’s worth it in the long run.

FAQs in Relation to Website Builders

What is the average cost to pay someone to build a website?

Paying for a custom site can set you back anywhere from $2,000 to $75,000. It hinges on what you need.

What’s the best site to build a website?

Wix tops the charts for its blend of ease and robust features. Perfect for most needs.

How much will it cost to build a website?

The DIY route with builders like Squarespace could run $12-$40 monthly. Hiring pros? Think thousands.

Is it worth paying someone to build a website?

If time’s tight or tech ain’t your thing, investing in pro help pays off by saving headaches.

Conclusion

Building a professional website doesn’t have to be a headache. With just the right tool in hand, creating a beautiful website to flaunt your brand becomes child’s play, giving everything you do online that extra zing.

We’ve covered the top website builders for 2024, from the most user-friendly to the most feature-packed. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s a builder out there that’ll work for you.

So, what are you waiting for? Pick the website builder that speaks to you and start creating. With a little effort and a lot of heart, you’ll have a website that wows your audience and takes your business to new heights. You’ve got this!