When a business or individual decides to take on a website, there are two main options to choose from. First, you can use a website builder like Wix or Shopify, which means using a web page or set of web pages that are already designed. Your only task is to load your own content and photos into the pages

Secondly, you can choose to commission a custom web design. This option requires you to hire a professional developer to create your site from scratch. A template offers you a faster and cheaper way to build your site, however, one disadvantage is it is not as flexible as a custom design. A custom design allows you to create a site that is unique, tailored to your business, targeted to your customers, and is more likely to be profitable.

Cost

In comparison to custom web design, website builders tend to be less expensive in the short-term, but they will quickly add up in hosting fees, SSL certificates, and package upgrades. Furthermore, your website will be hosted on a shared server.

Because it requires more time and expertise, custom web design usually costs more than a web site builder. For this type of web development, you hire a developer to build your website from the ground up. Oftentimes, you will also receive maintenance and support for your site after it has been built. A typical fee for this service ranges on your budget and the type of website you need

Despite the importance of the cost of your website, you also need to consider the benefits you receive. While a builder may appear cheaper, you don’t get the same features and customization as a web developer. Additionally, there are times when a builder might not be the cheapest. Unexpected costs (such as hiring someone to customize your site, or paying for ongoing support) can raise the total amount you pay.

Time Investment

A website builder may be the best choice if you want your website up and running quickly. Because the templates are pre-designed and do not need much customization, they are usually relatively easy to set up.

Custom web design, on the other hand, typically takes longer time to complete. The reason for this is that you’ll need to collaborate with a web development company to build a design from the bottom up. The more planning and design that goes into the site, the more time it takes to complete the job.

However, as with cost, time is not the only consideration. You may get your website running faster with a builder, but the finished product may not be as effective as you want. When it comes to getting features such as customization and scalability, taking a little extra time for a custom web design may be the best choice.

Customization

Website builders and custom web design also differ when it comes to the level of customization they offer. As its name implies, custom web design provides significantly more options for customizing your site than do builders.

Custom web design offers you almost unlimited options for customizing your website. Because this type of site is built from the ground up, you can work with your web development company to choose the features that will work best for your business. Your web developer will design the solution around you and your needs, instead of trying to fit you into a box. As a result, they give you the chance to create a site that accurately reflects your unique business.

Summary

Choosing a website builder or custom web design to serve your business well means knowing what you’re getting. Generally, a builder’s fees are less up front, and their setup takes less time. However, the greater customization, scalability, and maintenance available through a custom site make this option a more appealing and profitable choice for many businesses.