Static vs CMS
Simple and blazing fast, or editable and feature packed?
Learn the differences between static sites and content management systems, so you can decide what is best for your business.
When choosing the right type of website for your business, it's important to understand the key differences between static sites and CMS-based sites.
Both have their strengths and are suited to different needs. Static sites are simple, fast, and budget-friendly, while CMS-based sites, like those built with WordPress, offer flexibility and control for regular updates and more complex functionality.
This guide will help you decide which option is the best fit for your goals and requirements.
What is a Static Site?
A static site is a website built with fixed pages—every piece of content is hardcoded into the site. Unlike CMS-based sites, there's no backend or database.
Static sites are ideal for straightforward needs like small business pages, portfolios, or landing pages where frequent updates aren't necessary.
What is a CMS?
A Content Management System (CMS) is a platform that allows you to manage your website's content without needing to know how to code. With a CMS, you can log into a user-friendly backend to make updates, add new pages, or tweak your site whenever you want.
Some of the most commonly used CMS platforms include:
- WordPress (my platform of choice for development)
- Drupal
- Shopify (for e-commerce sites)
- Wix
- Squarespace
The tables below show the key benefits and considerations for each type of site.
Static site development
Looking for a simple, fast, and cost-effective website? A static site might be the perfect solution for you!
Pros:
- Low cost: Static sites are simpler to build and maintain, which means lower upfront costs.
- Fast Delivery: Without complex systems to set up, static sites can be delivered quickly.
- Speed: These sites load faster because there's no database or server-side processing involved.
- Security: No backend means fewer vulnerabilities—your site is naturally more secure.
- Scalable: Great for handling spikes in traffic with minimal hosting requirements.
Cons:
- Limited Flexibility: Changes require a developer to update the code.
- No Editing by You: If you want to make updates yourself, this may not be the best option.
- Basic Functionality: Static sites work best for simple content and won't support advanced features like user accounts or e-commerce out of the box.
CMS based site development
Need a website you can easily update and manage yourself? A CMS-based site might be exactly what you're looking for!
Pros:
- User-Friendly Updates: You can edit your content, add images, or update information yourself—no developer needed for everyday changes.
- Customizable Functionality: With plugins and add-ons, your site can do almost anything, from e-commerce to booking systems.
- Scalability: CMS platforms like WordPress can grow with your business, handling everything from a simple blog to a robust online store.
- Widespread Support: CMS platforms like WordPress are widely used, meaning there's a large community and plenty of resources available.
Cons:
- Higher Cost: CMS-based sites can cost more to build and maintain due to their complexity.
- Slower Load Times: CMS sites can be slower than static sites because they rely on a database and server-side processing.
- Security Risks: CMS platforms need regular updates to stay secure. Neglecting updates can leave your site vulnerable.
- Learning Curve: While user-friendly, learning to navigate a CMS might take some time if you're new to it.