If your business needs a website, or you are looking to start a new online blog or shop, you’ll need a website builder. A website builder is a tool to help you build your own website, without needing to know how to code or hire a website developer.  

Most website builders are easy to use, even for complete beginners, and typically provide templates and features that look great and work well.

Larger businesses that need a website with complex functionality or higher search engine performance may be better-off hiring a web developer, but those who require a functional business website, blog or online shop will get everything they need from a website builder.

This guide will help you choose the best website builder for your business.

First, what type of website do you want to build?

Types of Websites

1. Information Website

An information website is a common type of website used by most businesses and organisations to display information about services, news, products, company information etc.

This type of website is not designed to specifically function as an online store or blog (although this can be an additional feature).

The mosy important part of this type of website is the homepage.

This acts as the main face of the brand, and is a focal point of navigation so that a website visitor can find their way around your site with ease.

2. eCommerce Website

An eCommerce website is an online shop where website visitors can purchase products and services.

A good eCommerce website makes it easy for users to find, browse and buy products.

There are a number of easy website builders for creating an eCommerce website, such as Shopify, Squarespace, WordPress, Wix or BigCommerce to name but a few.

The best website builder for eCommerce websites will need to have an integrated payments, inventory and marketing platform. This will enable you to sell products, manage stock, and process payments all from one platform.

When considering an eCommerce builder, you’ll want to find out the fee or commission it charges each time you make a sale.

3. Blog Website

Blog websites are incredibly popular and there are a variety of different blogging platforms you can use to start a blog.

Whilst WordPress is the #1 blogging platform for most larger blogs, beginners may find it tricky to use. Squarespace, Wix and Weebly all offer an easy way of creating a new blog, so you can start publishing your content online.

A blog typically features written content, videos, photos and links to social media accounts. Most website builders enable you to create a blog using all of these features.

4. Portfolio Website

Portfolio websites are perfect fot photographers, artists, freelancers, videographers or writers to showcase their work to potential clients.

A portfolio website can display your visual work, provide contact information and display pricing. In a similar way to a blog website, a portfolio website showcases your work online.

A website builder such as Squarespace or Weebly can display your work in a stunning way, helping your brand to look professional, engaging and sophisicated.

One of things you’ll want to check when choosing a portfoloio website builder is how easy it is to upload and edit content. Most website builders offer a free trial so you can familiarise yoruself with how it works before you commit yourself.

Click here to start a free trial with Squarespace.