New to Squarespace? Why Squarespace? Squarespace vs WordPress, Wix, & Shopify
A quick guide to help you better understand the platform and how we work with it.
Why Squarespace?
Squarespace is an all-in-one website building platform that’s ideal for small to medium-sized businesses, creatives, and entrepreneurs. It offers:
Beautiful, responsive templates (mobile-ready by default)
Easy-to-use drag-and-drop editing tools
Built-in SEO, analytics, and marketing features
Reliable hosting, security, and 24/7 support—all included in one subscription
It’s perfect if you want a site that’s both professional-looking and easy to maintain without needing to code.
Upgrading to the Latest Version of Squarespace
Squarespace periodically releases major updates to the platform. If you're on Version 7.0 (or older), upgrading to Version 7.1 (the latest) unlocks:
More flexible layout options
Easier styling and design tools
Unified template features (you don’t need to pick a specific template with limitations anymore)
We highly recommend building new sites on Version 7.1 for a more modern and future-proof experience.
Note: Upgrading requires a rebuild of your site—it’s not a one-click process. We’re happy to help you through this if you're considering a move.
Squarespace vs. WordPress
| Feature | Squarespace | Wordpress |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Drag-and-drop, intuitive editor | Steeper learning curve |
| Hosting | Included | Separate hosting required |
| Maintenance | Low – automatic updates | Manual updates often needed |
| Customization | Less flexible than WordPress | Highly customizable |
Summary: Squarespace is simpler and better suited to clients who want a clean, modern site with minimal ongoing maintenance. WordPress is great for complex or large-scale websites, but it requires more hands-on management.
Squarespace vs. Wix
Both are visual builders, but here's how they compare:
Squarespace: Offers more polished, designer-quality templates and and a cleaner editing experience. Great for branding-conscious businesses.
Wix: Offers more flexibility and control over layout positioning, but this can lead to inconsistent design and mobile issues.
Summary: Squarespace is generally more reliable, refined, and scalable for professional use.
Squarespace vs. Shopify
If your main focus is eCommerce, Shopify might be better for managing large inventories and advanced eCommerce tools.
Squarespace: Best for content-focused businesses with a smaller product range or those needing an elegant site with simple eCommerce features.
Shopify: More powerful for larger online stores and businesses that need advanced inventory, shipping, and sales tools.
Summary: Squarespace is ideal for selling a few products or services alongside your main website; Shopify is better for full-scale online stores.
FINAL THOUGHTS FROM DAVID & GEORGE
Whichever website platform you choose, make sure it’s the right fit for your business needs and future goals.
Whether it’s Squarespace, Shopify, or WordPress, think beyond the launch day: will you be able to manage updates, SEO settings, and general website maintenance yourself? Or would you prefer a professional to handle things for you for a small ongoing cost?
A well-chosen platform and a plan for post-launch care are key to a successful online presence. It’s not just about having a beautiful website—it’s about making sure it stays fresh, functional, and discoverable on search engines long after it goes live.