Key takeaways:
- Choosing the right Wix alternatives helps you build your website, manage your content, and grow your business without juggling multiple tools or added complexity.
- While the platform is easy to start with, many users look for alternatives to Wix when they need more flexibility, better performance, or tools that grow with their business.
- If you’re exploring the best Wix alternatives, Network Solutions is worth a look, especially if you prefer built-in tools, reliable support, and all-in-one pricing.
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Everything online starts with a name. Your domain is where people find you, remember you, and decide if they trust you. And with 27.2% of business activities now happening online, your online presence plays a bigger role in how customers choose you.
Next comes choosing the right website builder. Something that not only looks good but also holds up under daily use. For many small business owners, that means finding a setup that covers website building, hosting, and the basics you need to grow, without hopping between tools.
That’s why people start exploring Wix alternatives. Wix is a great starting point, but it doesn’t always keep up as your needs change. If you’re looking for more flexibility, stronger e-commerce functionality, or access to advanced customization features, this guide breaks down the best Wix alternatives so you can find what fits your business and take the next step.
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How we developed this list
If you’re comparing Wix alternatives, you’re probably trying to find what actually fits your workflow, your budget, and how you want to run your site day to day. That’s exactly how we approached this guide. We focused on what matters to small businesses, especially those building a site for the first time or moving on from a setup that no longer works.
Here’s what guided our research:
- User insights: We looked at feedback across platforms to understand what people like, what slows them down, and why they switch. This gave us a clearer picture of what users expect from modern website building tools, from drag-and-drop editors to more flexible setups.
- Pros and cons: Not every Wix site runs into issues, but some users outgrow it. Common reasons include limited control, a more closed system, or needing stronger advanced features and customization tools as their business grows.
- Key evaluation criteria: We focused on practical factors you’ll deal with every day. That includes pricing plans, ease of website creation, web hosting, design flexibility, and tools that help you sell online or manage small online stores. We also looked at extras like email marketing tools, AI features, and access to third-party apps when you need more functionality.
Disclaimer: Prices and features are accurate at the time of writing, but may change. Always check the provider’s latest details before you choose.
Comparison of the best Wix alternatives for small businesses
Looking at Wix alternatives means you want more than another builder. You need something that helps you build a strong online presence and actually supports your business as it grows. The good news is there are plenty of different website builders that, unlike Wix, give you more flexibility, more advanced features, or tools designed for how small businesses really operate.
Here are the platforms we’ll walk you through:
- Network Solutions
- WordPress
- Hostinger
- Bluehost
Platform | Key features | Ideal for |
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Network Solutions |
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WordPress.com |
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Hostinger |
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Bluehost |
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Network Solutions
Network Solutions gives you a straightforward way to get online without dealing with different tools. You start with your domain, then build your site using guided AI tools and a simple drag-and-drop editor that helps you create something that makes sense for your business without getting stuck in technical details.
Everything you need is already built in, including web hosting, a free domain for your first year, and tools that support your website building as you grow. It’s a practical choice for small business owners who want one place to manage their site, connect with customers, and start to sell online.
Key unique features
- Reliable performance: Your site runs on a stable platform designed to stay up and accessible.
- All-in-one setup: You get web hosting, SSL, and domain tools without needing extra services.
- Easy website creation: Use AI tools and a drag-and-drop editor to build and update your site.
- Built-in marketing tools: Access SEO tools and run pay-per-click campaigns to bring more traffic to your site.
- Professional email: Create domain-based email and set up a professional email with Google Workspace so your business looks consistent and credible.
- Domain protection: Keep your domain secure and protect your brand with AdultBlock and GlobalBlock to reduce the risk of misuse.
Who it’s best for
- Beginners who don’t have coding experience
- Small businesses that need a website, professional email, and security features
- Businesses anticipating growth
What users are saying
According to a TechRadar review, Network Solutions’ website builder offers a competent drag-and-drop feature for web development. Many users praise its ease of use, speed, and 99.9% uptime. The review states that it’s a solid choice for users who want an all-in-one website builder that doesn’t require technical skills.
Many users are happy with Network Solutions’ professional support team.
“I am not a tech savvy person as technology often will outpace my knowledge as it changes so rapidly. However, after contacting support, I was able to setup my website pages. I ran into several problems along the way,” said one review from Sitejabber.
Others, however, are frustrated about Network Solutions’ limited features and inappropriate rates.
“Our experience with Network Solutions has been frustrating due to their outdated CMS, which seems stuck in the early 2000s with limited capabilities like responsive design, video embedding, and SEO-friendly page formatting. Adding to the frustration, Network Solutions charges a $60 fee (approximately) just to look into technical issues with our site,” said one G2 reviewer.
Pricing and plans
Website builder
Network Solutions offers different plans for website builders and hosting. Here’s the pricing structure for our website builder options:
Plan | Cost/Term | Plan inclusions |
|---|---|---|
Website | $4.99/month (renews at $15.99/month) |
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Website + Marketing | $7.99/month (renews at higher rate) |
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E-commerce | $13.99/month (renews at higher rate) |
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Web hosting
Here’s the pricing structure for our hosting plans:
Plan | Cost/Term | Plan inclusions |
|---|---|---|
Starter | $2.99/month (for 1-year term) |
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Essential | $4.99/month (for 1-year term) |
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Premium | $6.99/month (for 1-year term) |
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Other services and their rates:
- Simple SEO tool – $20.50/mo
- Business listing with review management – $15.99/mo
- MyTime Support – starts at $16.99/mo
Note: Pricing can change after the introductory period, especially when plans renew. Always check the latest details before choosing a plan.
WordPress
WordPress.com usually comes up for one reason: flexibility. You can start with a free plan to get a feel for the platform, then move into paid plans as your needs change. And that’s when you unlock a custom domain, remove ads, and access more customizable features that help you build a stronger professional online presence.
What makes it different is that it runs on a full content management system (CMS), so you’re not simply designing pages. You’re managing everything behind your own website. But it’s worth noting that WordPress.com is different from WordPress.org, which is the open-source version that requires separate hosting. This setup does a great job for small business owners who want flexibility, and for advanced users who need more control, especially if you plan to expand into online stores or build something more complex over time. If you want more control, platforms like WordPress work better.
Key unique features
- Managed hosting: Hosting, security, updates, and performance are handled for you, so you don’t need to manage the technical side.
- Flexible design options: You can customize themes, layouts, and styles to match your brand, with more control available on higher-paid plans.
- Scalable functionality: The platform supports everything from basic sites to full online stores, so you can build and expand when needed.
- Plugin and integration access: You can extend your site with tools for SEO, marketing, and advanced features through plugins and integrations.
- Built-in AI tools: WordPress includes built-in AI tools to help you create content and set up your site faster.
- Domain and email setup: You can connect a custom domain and set up a professional email to support a more credible professional online presence.
Who it’s best for
- Small business owners who need to focus on expansion
- Businesses that prioritize reliability, scalability, and security
- Bloggers and content creators who need an easy-to-use platform
- Entrepreneurs who want to future-proof their company
What users are saying
Marketing and advertising professionals enjoy WordPress for its customization capabilities and plugins, as one G2 reviewer noted: “I think the best thing about it is the sheer amount of plugins available and how developers can make their own plugins to suit the needs of businesses, rather than having to wait for WordPress to build the features.”
While others say that it’s convenient but comes with limited flexibility.
“I don’t like the fact that WordPress.com has limited customization possibilities than WordPress.org. You cannot use the entire code, limiting flexibility. Additionally, you get a lot of advertisements unless you pay for a premium plan,” another G2 reviewer said.
Pricing and plans
Plan | Cost/Term | Plan inclusions |
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Free | $0 |
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Personal | $4/month (renews at $5/month) |
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Premium | $8/month (renews at $9/month) |
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Business | $25/month (renews at $28/month) |
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Commerce | $45/month (renews at $50/month) |
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Enterprise | Starts at $25,000/year |
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Other services and their prices:
- Professional email: Free for the first 3 months, then billed per mailbox based on your chosen email provider.
- Web design: Pricing varies depending on the service and plan selected.
Note: Pricing is current at the time of writing, but can change without prior notice. Please check with the provider directly for the most up-to-date pricing and see offer details for more information.
Hostinger
Hostinger is built for speed and simplicity, which is why it often comes up when comparing Wix alternatives. You can get your own website live quickly using its AI-powered builder and ready-made layouts, although it doesn’t offer a free plan. But the starting price is low, and there’s a money-back guarantee if you want to try it first.
What makes it appealing is how much is bundled into one plan. You get hosting, a domain, and built-in tools in one place, which makes it a practical option for small business owners or anyone launching quickly. That said, not all website builders work the same way, and Hostinger can be restrictive if you need deeper customization or more control as your site grows.
Key unique features
- Budget-friendly pricing: Plans start low and rank among the more affordable Wix alternatives.
- AI-powered website builder: The Hostinger website builder uses AI to create a site, write content, and generate images in minutes.
- All-in-one setup: Plans include hosting, a free domain (with annual plans), SSL, and essential built-in tools in one dashboard.
- E-commerce-ready features: The business website builder plan supports online store owners with product listings, payments, and zero transaction fees.
- Mobile-ready websites: All templates automatically adjust for mobile websites, so your site works across devices without extra setup.
- Customization tools: You can edit layouts, colors, fonts, and sections easily, though flexibility is still more limited compared to advanced platforms.
Who it’s best for
- Non-technical small business owners seeking an accessible platform
- Bloggers and personal site creators with basic security needs
- Users wanting comprehensive features at low prices
- Anyone preferring a single dashboard for hosting, domains, security, and email management
- Performance-driven site owners prioritizing fast load times
What users are saying
“If you checked your site after a week their servers get hibernated and the site load after 2 or 3 minutes or not at all. Their prices are very cheap but also resources are very limited to simple web site,” said one Sitejabber reviewer.
While others say that it delivers solid web development foundation.
“Hostinger has been my reliable hosting environment for development projects. The setup is simple, performance is consistent and high, and the control panel makes managing sites and databases simple,” said one G2 reviewer.
Pricing and plans
Plan | Cost/Term | Plan inclusions |
|---|---|---|
Premium Website Builder | $2.99/month (+ months free, renews at a higher price) |
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Business Website Builder | $3.29/month (+ months free, renews at a higher price) |
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Bluehost
Bluehost is primarily built around hosting, but it still gives you the tools to build a site without starting from scratch. Its AI builder runs on top of WordPress, so you get a guided setup with more flexibility behind the scenes.
It’s a good option if you want something simple to start, but still need creative control as your needs change. Unlike platforms that limit how you customize or extend your site, you’re not locked into one system, which gives you more flexibility to expand features later.
Key unique features
- AI-powered setup: Bluehost includes an AI builder that helps you create your site with layouts and content suggestions.
- WordPress flexibility: Built on WordPress, so you get more creative control compared to traditional drag-and-drop platforms.
- All-in-one hosting: Plans include hosting, domain (first year), SSL, and security tools in one setup.
- Reliable performance: Offers up to 99.99% uptime with built-in monitoring to keep your site running.
- Built-in security: Includes malware detection, backups, and protection tools to keep your site safe.
- 24/7 support: Access to chat and phone support, especially useful when managing updates or issues.
Who it’s best for
- WordPress beginners who need a simplified setup and an AI site builder to launch their site
- Bloggers and content creators who need an intuitive site to stage their site, backup files, and manage plugins
- Small business owners who need malware scanning and other advanced security features, like web application firewalls, for reliable uptime
- WooCommerce stores that need secure payment processing
What users are saying
Users are happy about Bluehost being an all-in-one foundation for any user building their career or business on WordPress.
“Thousands of website templates and easy customization of themes or templates to create and design the website without taking help from a developer. Also, Bluehost provides too many out of the box plugin that helps us to connect with different tools for chatbot, form and reporting,” says one G2 reviewer.
Pricing and plans
Plan | Cost/Term | Plan inclusions |
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Starter | $3.99/month (renews at $9.99/month) |
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Business | $6.99/month (renews at $13.99/month) |
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E-commerce Essentials | $14.99/month (renews at $21.99/month) |
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Note: Pricing is current at the time of writing, but can change without prior notice. Please check with the provider directly for the most up-to-date pricing and see offer details for more information.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. There are many alternatives to Wix, and the right one depends on what you need from your site. Some focus on simplicity with a drag-and-drop builder, while others offer more flexibility, e-commerce tools, or customization. For example, Network Solutions is one option if you prefer an all-in-one setup with AI and built-in tools under one business plan, but other platforms may suit you better if you want more design control or room to scale.
Wix is easy to use, but it has a few limitations that lead some users to explore Wix alternatives:
1. Template and data lock-in: Once you choose a template, switching often requires rebuilding your site, and content isn’t easily exportable.
2. Limited flexibility: Customization and advanced features can feel restricted compared to more open platforms.
3. SEO and performance limits: Some users find fewer advanced SEO options and slower performance on more complex sites.
4. Pricing adds up: While the core plan may look affordable, costs can increase as you add features or upgrade.
How to choose the best Wix alternative for your needs
Switching to a Wix alternative usually comes down to what your website actually needs and where Wix starts to fall short.
Here are a few common situations where exploring different website builders makes sense:
- Cost considerations
- Support and customer service
- Specific feature requirements
Cost considerations
Your budget plays a big role in choosing the right Wix alternative. Some platforms give you more value upfront, especially if you’re paying for features you don’t fully use on Wix. If you’re running a site for small businesses or planning to sell online, it helps to look at what each plan includes and how pricing scales as you grow.
Support and customer service
Support can make a big difference, especially when something breaks or you need help fast. If Wix support hasn’t been enough for your needs, other providers offer more hands-on help. Some platforms include 24/7 support, while others focus on guided setup and ongoing assistance, which can be useful for complete beginners or growing teams.
Specific feature requirements
Not all website builders offer the same level of flexibility. If you need more design freedom, access to third-party apps, or better tools for small online stores, it may be worth switching. Some platforms also give you more complete control over your site, which matters if you’re planning to scale or customize beyond basic templates.
Which Wix alternative should you choose?
The short answer: it depends on what you need your site to do.
Most people switch for three main reasons: more flexibility, better tools for growth, or pricing that makes more sense long term.
So, instead of looking for the “best” option, think about who you’re building:
- For beginners and simple websites
- For small business owners
- For online stores and selling
- For flexibility and control
- For long-term growth
For beginners and simple websites
If you just want to get online fast, look for builders with a visual editor, simple setup, and clear basic plans.
Here’s what to expect:
- These platforms are closest to what Wix offers
- Many include a free plan or free trial, so you can test before committing
- Best for portfolios, blogs, or simple business pages
This is a good fit if you want ease over control.
For small business owners
If you’re running a business, a website alone isn’t enough. You need tools that actually support businesses as they grow.
So:
- Look for built-in marketing, bookings, and email tools
- Check how pricing scales beyond the cheapest plan
- Make sure the platform can handle traffic and future updates
Many other website builders go further here than Wix, especially when you start growing.
For online stores and selling
If your goal is to sell online, your choice matters more.
Here’s what to look for:
- Platforms that are built specifically for online stores
- Better checkout, inventory, and payment options
- Stronger e-commerce tools for scaling your store
This is especially important for online store owners planning to grow beyond a small catalog.
For flexibility and control
If your options are limited, this is where switching makes the biggest difference.
Here’s why:
- Platforms like WordPress give you advanced design control
- You can add features through plugins and integrations
- You’re not locked into an only builder ecosystem
This is ideal if you want long-term flexibility, not just a quick setup.
For long-term growth
Some builders are easy to start with but can limit what you can do later.
To plan ahead:
- Look at scalability, not just features
- Consider performance, integrations, and technical SEO tools
- Platforms with open systems tend to offer more room to grow over time
Many platforms have been around for over a decade, which often shows in their ecosystem and reliability.
How to decide (quick way)
If you’re unsure, use this as a quick guide:
- Want something simple: Go with an easy builder with a visual editor.
- Running a business: Choose a platform that can support businesses.
- Selling products: Pick a builder made for online stores.
- Need flexibility: Look for advanced design control and open systems.
How to transfer your Wix site to another builder
Once you’ve chosen from the top Wix alternatives, the next step is moving your site. The process isn’t instant since Wix is a closed system, so expect to rebuild parts of your site as you go.
Follow these steps to move your site with fewer issues and keep your content and visibility on search engines intact:
- Prepare for migration
- Builder your site
- Transfer domain and content
- Launch checklist
Step 1: Prepare for migration
- Back up images, videos, and written content
- List URLs, metadata, and alt text for technical SEO
- Take note of forms, bookings, and other key features
This step is your key criteria checkpoint. It helps you avoid missing anything important before you switch.
Step 2: Build your site
- Set up hosting and install your new builder
- Choose a template or layout that fits your brand
- Rebuild pages and upload your content
Most platforms are builder-designed to simplify setup, but you’ll still need to recreate pages manually.
Step 3: Transfer domain and content
- Get your Wix authorization (EPP) code
- Transfer your domain to your new provider
- Import blog content or manually rebuild pages
There’s no full automation here, so expect some hands-on work, especially if you manage multiple sites.
Step 4: Launch checklist
- Set up redirects to protect rankings on search engines
- Test pages, forms, and links
- Cancel your Wix subscription once everything is live
Note: DIY migration usually takes a few days, depending on your site size. If you’re running serious online stores or complex setups, getting expert help can save time.
Make the move to a more reliable website builder
If Wix no longer fits your needs, it may be time to look at Wix alternatives that give you more control, better support, or pricing that makes sense as you grow. Many alternatives to Wix offer stronger customization, more flexible tools, and features that support your business beyond just building a site.
The key is to choose a platform that matches how you work. Some focus on simplicity, while others give you more room to scale. If you want an all-in-one setup, Network Solutions combines a website builder, hosting, and domain tools in one place, along with free tools like a Coming Soon Page, Marketing Calendar App, and Link in Bio to help you launch and promote your site from day one. It’s one of the best Wix alternatives for getting started without juggling multiple services.
Start building today with Network Solutions and use these free tools to get your site live faster.
