If you’re looking for a straightforward way to set up an online business, Wix could be a good fit. The platform makes it possible to build and launch a website without coding knowledge, using drag-and-drop tools.
Wix comes with a huge range of templates to choose from, plus AI tools to help you create a professional looking website. What’s more, as it’s a hosted platform, it takes care of technical tasks such as security, updates and web hosting.
However, while Wix is easy to use, costs can rise if you start adding premium features, apps, or other tools. So it’s worth comparing the platform with others before you decide if it’s right for you.
Pros and cons
Pros
Good for beginners. Wix is designed for those with little technical experience, making it easy to set up a website
Hosting included. Wix handles hosting, security and updates so you don't have to
Fast setup. Users can launch a website quickly using templates and AI tools
Large template library. Choose from more than 2,000 templates tailored towards different business types
Cons
Limited flexibility. Wix can be a little restrictive for some users, especially in terms of customisation
Costs can increase. You will need to pay more for more advanced tools and features
Difficult to swap templates. Changing templates after building a site can involve major redesign work
What is Wix?
Wix is a website builder that enables small businesses to create a website without needing code. It provides a range of features, a drag-and-drop website editor, templates, AI and marketing tools to help you get your website up and running.
Wix is a hosted platform which means it stores your website on its own servers and manages the technical side on your behalf, including security updates and maintenance.
You can create your site for free and, when you’re ready, upgrade to a paid-for plan. There are 4 to choose from, with the cheapest option offering fairly basic features, and the most expensive plan coming with more advanced tools for growing businesses. All plans come with a free domain for one year.
Who is Wix for?
Wix is generally aimed at beginners, small businesses, freelancers and online sellers who are looking to build and manage a website themselves.
Because it manages the technical side of things for you, it could be ideal if you’re setting up an online business while continuing to work your full-time job.
What are the main features?
The key features of Wix are as follows:
Drag-and-drop website builder
This enables you to easily design pages on your website without needing coding.
AI website creation tools
These can generate websites, layouts, text and images from prompts. The tools will ask about your business goals before designing your custom website.
Free templates
Choose from more than 2,000 designer-made templates tailored towards different types of businesses.
Design tools
Wix offers a range of web design tools to help you explore stock photos, edit images and apply filters before playing around with the layout on your website. You can customise everything from your navigation menu to call to action (CTA) buttons.
Built-in hosting and security
Wix hosts the website and manages updates and security infrastructure.
Multiple payment options
Accept payments online from debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and more. Payment processing fees apply.
SEO features
Wix includes a range of beginner-friendly SEO features that are built in and semi-automated. You will have control over basic elements including your URL, meta tags, redirects and more. It also provides an SEO assistant, checklist and AI-generated meta tags to make your life easier.
Email marketing and ad tools
These features include email campaigns, social media ads and Google Ads integration.
Analytics dashboard
Here, you can track visitor numbers, traffic sources and site performance.
App marketplace
You can add extra features through third-party apps and integrations.
Is Wix safe?
Yes, Wix is a safe and secure platform. It includes built-in security features such as SSL certificates, HTTPS encryption and fraud monitoring.
Unlike self hosted platforms, Wix manages the hosting and security infrastructure itself which can reduce the risk for the user.
Alternatives to Wix
If Wix is not for you, there are other alternatives.
Shopify. Shopify is known to be one of the most popular platforms in the UK for selling physical goods. It stands out because of the sheer number of selling features it offers, making it a reliable pick if you have a large inventory or want to sell to customers in multiple countries. It also has a built-in AI feature called Sidekick that can help you along the way bypassing the need for design or developer support. Other platforms. There are other platforms such as WooCommerce and BigCommerce that offer simular features. Both provide the essential foundation for online selling, including robust inventory management, support for unlimited products, and integration with major payment gateways like PayPal and Stripe.
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Rachel Wait is a freelance journalist and has been writing about personal finance for more than a decade, covering everything from insurance to mortgages. She has written for a range of personal finance websites and national newspapers, including The Observer, The Mail on Sunday, The Sun and the Evening Standard. Rachel is a keen baker in her spare time.
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Learn how Shopify’s AI-powered assistant, Sidekick, can help run your side hustle. (Paid content)
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