Squarespace vs Wix?
If you are considering a new website, the choice of publishing tool (CMS) is important. Here you can see the differences between Squarespace and Wix.
We have developed over 600 websites based on Squarespace and are the only agency in Norway that is a Squarespace Enterprise member. We're still just as enthusiastic and impressed by a tool that is almost without errors or technical problems! So we can't say that we're completely objective here, but there are good reasons for that.
(Please also be aware that Wix is an Israeli company that has publicly supported Israel in the ongoing conflict.)
Here's our look at the choice between Squarespace and Wix:
Short introduction
There's no denying that Squarespace and Wix have a lot in common. As Forbes says, "You really can't go wrong with either platform".
These are simple tools that make the road to a great website quick and easy. Nevertheless, there is a lot of built-in functionality, such as an online shop, SEO tools and blogging, as well as additional services such as newsletters. But the tools are probably best known for their drag-and-drop editing functionality, which makes them great tools even for inexperienced users. This is where they really differ from WordPress and others.
We at Gasta only use Squarespace, and recommend this to small and medium-sized businesses that want a user-friendly system that is easy to work with, at a reasonable price. Below you will find more detailed information about why:
Squarespace vs Wix: differences and similarities
Editing tools
Both tools are easy to use, with drag-and-drop functionality that makes it easy to build pages that look good. We find that our customers appreciate that Squarespace always helps you make good design choices, in the form of guides, grids and suggestions. This ensures that the result is attractive, user-friendly and equally good on small and large screens. Wix, on the other hand, has more unstructured editing, with few "rules" and few help tools. For users who don't have a web design background, it can be overwhelming when "everything is possible".
Design paints
Both platforms offer ready-made design templates that can be customized. While Wix is known for variety, Squarespace is known for quality. Here we think there is a clear class difference. In addition, Squarespace's new "Saved sections" functionality has made the tool superior when it comes to customizing and reusing templates. It simply doesn't get any simpler than that.
Universal design
If you are concerned about accessibility, Squarespace is a good choice. In Norway, there are 35 minimum requirements that apply to all websites. Many of these are covered by the tools from the start, while others need to be adapted. We have good experience of ensuring universal design in Squarespace, even for public sector organizations that must have an accessibility statement. Wix does not have information on their own website about how this is done in their solution, but writes that they are adapted for universal design.
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)
Wix has previously been criticized for certain limitations on the SEO front, but much of this has been remedied in recent years. However, in our experience, Squarespace's integrated SEO tools are simpler to use, making it easier for you to ensure good visibility in search engines - without requiring deep technical knowledge. In Squarespace, you can easily customize titles, meta texts, file names and URLs.
Online shop
Both platforms offer online stores with physical and digital products.
Articles and blog posts
Most people need to write articles on current topics and news (such as the article you are reading right now). This helps to fill the website and provides good search engine hits. Both Squarespace and Wix have integrated tools for this. In Squarespace, it's easy to create a blog module and get started with your first post, with built-in features such as categories, tagging, scheduling posts in the future, moderating comments and sharing to social media.
Backup and storage
Squarespace offers unlimited storage, while Wix is limited to 50 GB storage. That's enough for the smallest websites, but sets limits for growth in the future.
Safety and security
Both Squarespace and Wix have very high uptime. The advantage of operating them centrally is that everything is always up to date. We at Gasta have our own contact person in Squarespace and offer support if you need help. In addition, you can always follow the status of the operation here.
Price
Both solutions are dependent on subscriptions with different price levels. You can start with a free plan and upgrade as needed. Squarespace starts at $16 per month while Wix starts at $17 per month.
> Are you considering WordPress instead? Read our comparison "Squarespace vs Wordpress"
Conclusion
Given the choice between Squarespace and Wix, we at Gasta would recommend the former. Having used the tool on over 600 websites, we can honestly say that this is the simplest, most secure and user-friendly publishing tool we have come across. It's a good choice for small and medium-sized businesses and organizations that are fun to work with, at a reasonable price.
Get started with Gasta and Squarespace today by requesting a quote or contacting us.
