Is Wix a great platform for coding your dream website?

When people think of Wix, they often picture simple, template-based websites—ideal for beginners but limited in functionality.

But here’s the reality: Wix is much more than just that. The platform has two versions: Wix Editor (the standard version) and Wix Studio (designed for agencies and freelancers). Each version provides specific coding options, so let’s recap them:

1. Wix Editor or Studio (Standard Version)

• Limited Custom Code: If you have a specific design in mind, you can use the custom code function to adapt a Wix design with custom HTML, CSS or JavaScript.

  
  

  For instance, for a specific hover effect (e.g., altering the box shape when hovered over), you can use the custom code function if the menu doesn't allow you to modify the element as desired.

  
  

  Check the image below; I added some code in the custom code editor (found in the settings) to change the shape of a box.

  

  This feature is great for modifying designs, such as button sizes or colors. For instance, I used it to add a gradient colour to a form's button because I couldn't find a functionality to do so—see the picture below.

Keep in mind that Wix sometimes changes the names of elements on your website, so your code might stop working. (If you still want to use custom code, it’s better to identify elements by their class rather than their ID, as the class name never changes, whereas the ID might.

For instance, consider the same submit button: the ID might be XXX initially and change to YYY after a few weeks, while the class will remain "submit-button."

2. Wix Velo For Wix Studio (Only)

Wix Studio (Wix's most advanced version) offers a robust JavaScript-based development platform for creating dynamic and interactive web experiences: Velo.

This new tool enables you to have complete control over your site, from frontend design to backend functionality. It's equivalent to Wordpress but more user-friendly.

• Coding-Friendly: Wix Velo is a development platform that allows you to add custom code to your Wix site. You can write JavaScript, use databases, create APIs, and more.

• Full-Stack Development: Velo enables you to build dynamic, database-driven websites with server-side code, making it a more powerful option for developers.

• Access to Wix APIs: You can interact with Wix's APIs to extend functionality, such as managing user data, creating custom forms, or integrating third-party services.

Velo by Wix Studio has completely transformed the way I approach web development. Over the past few years, there’s hardly been a request from my clients that I couldn’t fulfil using Velo, coupled with AI to check my code (or generate it).

Wix is an excellent option if you’re looking for a balance between ease of use and some coding flexibility. Its intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes it accessible for beginners, while features like Velo by Wix allow for custom coding if you need more advanced functionality.

However, there’s an important thing to know: with Wix, you don’t truly own your site. If you ever decide to leave the platform, you can’t take your website with you.

In contrast, WordPress gives you full ownership of your site, especially if you opt for a third-party hosting solution like Flywheel, a reliable managed WordPress hosting platform.

Keep in mind, though, that WordPress requires a significant time investment to learn, build a quality site, and maintain it properly. It’s not as beginner-friendly as Wix, but it offers unparalleled flexibility for those willing to put in the effort.

That's why I recommend Wix to most of my clients, it's faster and cheaper.

PS: Look you can get a free automated quote for creating or updating your website by asking our AI agent. It’s quick, easy, and delivered straight to your inbox!