What Is a Website Builder?
A website builder is a new, easier and less expensive way to get a website and put it onto the Internet. In the past, getting a website was expensive, complicated and time consuming. Website builders make this task affordable, easy and quick.
In a nutshell, a website builder lets you to create a do-it-yourself website online.
What makes it better
What makes a website builder better?
To put it plainly, bang-for-buck.
There is no other way of getting a website online that combines everything you need for a website in a single package, and usually at prices that are less than buying website software or hiring a designer.
Traditionally, getting a website online involves combining different software and online packages to get what you want. Website builders put everything you need in one package that all works the same.
The major problem with not using a website builder is that you will have to learn how to use at least 5 different kinds of software (for designing, photo editing, uploading and managing your website). If you need a shopping cart, you will also need to learn another.
What makes it unique
Certain characteristics separate a website builder from other ways of building a website:
- No Software to Downoad or Install. Website builders allow you to build your website online meaning that you don't have to download or install any software onto your computer. It also means that you can edit your website from any computer that is connected to the Internet, whether its at work, home or even in a foreign country.
- Shopping Cart. Most website builders either have a shopping cart with the ability to sell products online built in or they allow you to add one for a reasonable cost.
- Online Editing. One of the key benefits of a website builder is that you can make changes to your website quickly and easily online. This is a big step up in efficiency and ease of use from having to modify files on your computer using web design software then using a "FTP" to send the files to your host.
- Special Features. Website builders also include a collection of special features that you typically don't get when you code your own website. Features like online forms, newsletters, event calendars, and photo albums. These can be used to add value and drive traffic to your website.
How to Choose a Builder
Although website builders have many similar characteristics, each one is unique and has different strengths and weaknesses.
The website builder you choose should be easy to use and have the features you need. Our editors' choice is our favorite all around pick and is good for most business websites including those with shopping carts. However, special needs may mean another website builder is a better choice for you.
Read our reviews to find out more about each website builder.
To learn more about how to compare website builders, read the article How We Review Website Builders.