Static Sites vs WordPress vs Site Builders: Choosing Honestly
When deciding how to build your website in 2026, you have three main options: static sites, WordPress, and site builders like Squarespace or Wix. Each has its own set of tradeoffs that can help you make an informed decision.
SITE BUILDERS (Squarespace, Wix, Shopify for stores)
Site builders are easy-to-use platforms with drag-and-drop interfaces. They typically include hosting and offer a range of templates and features out-of-the-box. The monthly cost is usually between $16 and $40 per month.
Pros:
- Fastest path to a decent-looking site.
- No technical expertise required.
- Support exists for common issues.
Cons:
- Perpetual rental fees.
- Design limitations.
- Lock-in due to lack of export options (export is often limited to HTML soup).
- Frequent feature upsells.
This option is best suited for businesses that need a site quickly, have no technical support, and can afford the ongoing costs.
WordPress
WordPress powers about 43% of all websites. It’s free software that you host yourself or use managed services from a hosting provider.
Pros:
- No design ceiling.
- Extensive plugin ecosystem for adding functionality.
- Portable between hosts.
- Large community support and resources.
Cons:
- Requires ongoing maintenance, including core, theme, and plugin updates.
- Security risks if not kept up to date (it’s the most hacked software due to its widespread use).
- Managed services are necessary for security and stability.
This option is ideal for content-heavy sites, blogs with non-technical editors, or any site that requires a wide range of plugins.
Static Sites
Static sites consist of plain HTML files generated from templates. Popular static site generators include Hugo, Astro, and Eleventy. The Breadtoasting website uses static pages.
Pros:
- No risk of hacking (no admin interface, no database).
- Extremely fast load times.
- Hosting can be free or very cheap on CDNs.
- Version control is straightforward.
Cons:
- Requires technical expertise for editing and maintenance.
- Dynamic features like forms or comments may require external services or APIs.
Static sites are best for simple, content-light websites where the primary goal is speed and security.
Decision Tree
- Is anyone editing weekly who isn't technically savvy?
- If yes, go with WordPress (managed) or a site builder.
- Is it mostly a brochure that changes quarterly?
- Static sites are the best choice; you can pocket the subscription costs.
- Is it a store?
- Use Shopify-class builders for stores as they handle payments, taxes, and fraud management. WooCommerce is an option if already deep into WordPress.
- Does the person have a technical friend maintaining it?
- Choose whatever your friend can maintain; this often dictates the best choice.
The Trap to Avoid
Rebuilding a working site just because a new tool is fashionable is a common pitfall. Sites are for visitors, and they cannot tell what generated the HTML. Rebuild only when the business needs change, not simply due to fashion trends.
By understanding these tradeoffs, you can choose the right solution that best fits your website's requirements and constraints.