Webflow vs. Wix: Which is Better?

Choosing the right website platform determines how your organisation designs, manages, and scales its online presence. For many teams, the choice comes down to Webflow or Wix. Two platforms that approach website creation from very different angles. Webflow is trusted by professionals who value design flexibility, scalability, and performance. Wix remains a strong option for small businesses and individuals wanting an easy starting point with minimal setup.

Both platforms let you create modern, responsive websites with integrated SEO, e-commerce functionality, and visual design control. The difference lies in how much freedom and scalability you need. This comparison explains where each platform excels, where they fall short, and how those factors shape long-term results for design teams and marketing-driven businesses in New Zealand.

What is Webflow?

Webflow is a professional-grade website builder that merges visual design, content management, and hosting in one system. It enables teams to design visually while the platform writes clean HTML, CSS, and JavaScript in the background. This balance of creative freedom and technical precision lets designers and marketers collaborate effectively without relying entirely on developers.

Within the Webflow Designer, users control every layout detail through CSS grid and flexbox systems. Animations, transitions, and responsive behaviour are handled visually but compiled into production-ready code. Content is stored in Webflow’s CMS, where marketing teams can publish updates independently, speeding up iteration cycles.

Hosting is fully managed: global CDN, SSL, automatic backups, and strong uptime guarantees are included. With integrated SEO tools, support for structured data, and advanced features such as custom code injection and API access, Webflow is built for scalable workflows and long-term growth rather than short-term convenience.

What is Wix?

Wix is a consumer-focused website builder created to make web design fast and approachable. Its drag-and-drop interface allows users with no coding experience to assemble pages from templates and pre-built blocks. Small businesses and freelancers use it to get online quickly without technical barriers.

Wix offers two main editing modes. The standard Wix Editor gives hands-on visual control of text, images, and layout. Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence) builds an initial design automatically based on user inputs such as industry and goals. Wix Studio, its newer platform, adds custom breakpoints, grid control, and developer APIs aimed at creative agencies.

The Wix App Market provides hundreds of third-party integrations for bookings, payments, social media, and marketing. These additions expand functionality but can increase maintenance and affect load speed. While Wix is intuitive and beginner-friendly, its reliance on templates limits advanced customisation and scalability compared with Webflow’s open-ended design environment.

Key Considerations

Design Flexibility

Webflow

Webflow provides near-total creative control. Designers can replicate Figma layouts precisely, build complex responsive grids, and implement interactions visually without writing code. Because every style is based on real CSS properties, designs remain semantically correct and scalable. The Designer environment supports reusable components and global styles, making large multi-page projects consistent and maintainable.

Wix

Wix focuses on speed and simplicity. Its editor lets users drag elements anywhere on a canvas, offering immediate visual results. Templates and built-in animation options make quick customisation possible but introduce limitations: element positioning is less structured, and design systems are harder to maintain. Wix Studio narrows this gap with CSS grid support and improved responsive tools, yet professional teams still find Webflow offers greater precision for brand-driven design work.

Build Speed

Webflow

By combining design, CMS, and hosting, Webflow streamlines production from prototype to launch. Teams design directly in the browser, connect real content, and publish live without third-party servers or plugins. Automatic optimisation for HTML, CSS, and JavaScript reduces build and testing time. Once launched, updates are instant. No file transfers or manual deployments required. This efficiency lets marketing and design teams focus on iteration and optimisation instead of maintenance.

Wix

Wix prioritises speed of setup. Users can start from a template or use ADI to generate a site in minutes. This convenience helps small businesses get online quickly but can lead to slower adjustments later if design or structure needs evolve. Editing complex layouts or migrating content often means rebuilding pages. For long-term projects, Webflow’s unified workflow delivers faster cumulative efficiency even if initial onboarding takes longer.

SEO

Webflow

Webflow gives full control over on-page SEO from within the Designer. Teams can define meta titles, descriptions, and alt text for every asset. Automatic sitemaps, SSL certificates, and lightweight HTML improve site health. Developers can add schema markup and structured data for richer search results. Because Webflow outputs clean, semantic code without unnecessary scripts, load times are consistently fast which is a key ranking factor. Its integrated 301 redirects and robots.txt editing further support technical optimisation.

Wix

Wix includes solid SEO tools aimed at beginners. Wix SEO Setup Checklists guide users through adding keywords, meta tags, and page titles. Basic URL structure editing and automatic sitemaps are built-in. However, template dependencies and app scripts can bloat code and slow performance. Advanced users often find limited control over structured data and canonical tags. Wix is strong for simple business sites but lacks the depth of Webflow’s technical optimisation.

Security and Maintenance

Webflow

Webflow handles all security and maintenance behind the scenes. SSL certificates, backups, and version history are automatic. Hosting runs on fast global infrastructure with proactive DDoS protection. Regular platform updates ensure sites remain secure without user action. For teams managing multiple sites, this removes the need for plugin patching or server monitoring,a major time saver for marketing departments.

Wix

Wix also provides secure cloud hosting with SSL and automated updates. Users benefit from centralised maintenance handled by Wix’s infrastructure. The limitation is flexibility: there is minimal access to underlying systems, which can restrict advanced configurations or data control. For most small businesses this simplicity is ideal, but larger organisations often prefer the additional oversight and scalability of Webflow’s managed hosting.

Ease of Use

Webflow

The Webflow interface balances visual design with front-end accuracy. Non-technical users can update content through the Editor view, while designers use the Designer for full layout control. The learning curve is steeper because it mirrors real HTML and CSS structure, but once learned it enables precise, professional outcomes. This empowers teams to create complex responsive websites without leaving the visual environment.

Wix

Wix is built for immediate accessibility. Its drag-and-drop interface and library of templates mean anyone can design pages quickly. Visual adjustments are intuitive, but the abstraction from code limits customisation depth. As projects grow, maintaining design consistency or implementing custom workflows becomes harder. Wix suits users who want quick results; Webflow suits teams ready to invest in learning a more powerful system that yields long-term control and flexibility.

Hosting

Webflow

Webflow hosting is built for performance and reliability. Every site runs on fast, globally distributed infrastructure using Amazon Web Services and Fastly CDN. Pages are automatically optimised for delivery speed, with minified code and responsive image handling. Because hosting is integrated into the platform, teams avoid separate domain or server management. This makes it ideal for brands that expect consistent performance across devices and regions.

Wix

All Wix plans include managed hosting with SSL and automatic updates. Setup is simple, and users never handle servers or configuration. Performance is solid for smaller sites, though page weight and multiple third-party apps can affect load times. Unlike Webflow, Wix doesn’t offer advanced hosting controls or content-delivery options. For lightweight personal or local business websites this simplicity works well, but high-traffic projects benefit from Webflow’s infrastructure and optimisation.

Scalability and Future-Proofing

Webflow

Scalability is one of Webflow’s core strengths. The CMS supports complex content structures for blogs, landing pages, and online stores, all manageable through an intuitive interface. When traffic increases, the hosted infrastructure scales automatically. Developers can extend functionality via custom code, APIs, and third-party tools without compromising performance. As design systems evolve, global styles and components make updates efficient. This combination of flexibility and reliability ensures websites remain maintainable as businesses grow.

Wix

Wix can scale modestly through upgraded plans and add-ons, but larger projects often rely on numerous apps to fill feature gaps. This can lead to slower performance and more complex management. For small businesses expanding online, Wix remains capable, yet beyond a certain size, its closed environment limits flexibility. Webflow’s architecture, open, modular, and CMS-driven, is built to handle growth without requiring platform migration later.

Integrations

Webflow

Webflow connects smoothly with a wide range of third-party tools. Native integrations link to Google Analytics, HubSpot, and Zapier; developers can use APIs or custom scripts to integrate CRMs, marketing automation, and analytics platforms. These integrations function without compromising site speed, as they load efficiently within the hosted environment. For marketing teams, this means campaigns, forms, and tracking all run through a single, maintainable system.

Wix

The Wix App Market provides hundreds of integrations for SEO, e-commerce, and social-media tools. Installation is straightforward, but overlapping apps can add scripts that slow load times. Some advanced systems, such as custom CRMs or marketing platforms, require external embedding rather than full integration. For basic automation and analytics, Wix works well; for complex workflow connectivity, Webflow’s open structure offers greater stability and scalability.

Collaboration and Workflows

Webflow

Webflow allows designers, developers, and marketers to collaborate in the same workspace. The CMS Editor enables non-technical team members to add or update content while preserving design integrity. Version history and staging environments help manage approvals before publishing. For agencies or multi-stakeholder teams, this unified workflow reduces friction and keeps design, content, and deployment aligned.

Wix

Wix includes shared access and role-based permissions, letting multiple users edit a site. Collaboration is effective for smaller teams but less structured for larger projects. Version control and staging options are limited, meaning live changes can occur without oversight. For coordinated workflows, especially where marketing and development overlap, Webflow’s built-in collaboration tools provide more professional control.

Content Localisation

Webflow

Webflow’s localisation feature supports multilingual and regional versions within the same project. Each locale can include unique content, URLs, and SEO settings, managed visually in the Designer. This makes it straightforward to tailor messaging for specific markets. For example, creating NZ, AU, and US variations while maintaining design consistency.

Wix

Wix Multilingual lets users translate and duplicate pages, offering quick setup for simple sites. However, maintaining large multilingual projects can be cumbersome because translations are managed manually. For brands running multiple regions or campaigns, Webflow’s structured approach provides cleaner control and scalability.

Customer Support

Webflow

Webflow offers extensive learning resources, including Webflow University, community forums, and comprehensive documentation. Users can access tutorials covering design, optimisation, and CMS management. Email support is responsive for account-level issues, while enterprise customers receive priority assistance. This educational ecosystem empowers users to self-resolve most challenges and encourages best-practice development.

Wix

Wix provides 24/7 support via chat and callback options. Its help centre and forums cover common questions, and phone support is available on higher-tier plans. The guidance is helpful for new users but less technical, focusing on template and feature setup rather than deep optimisation. Webflow’s documentation and community typically offer more advanced insight for professional teams.

Pricing

Webflow

Webflow pricing is structured around site type and usage needs. Hosting, CMS, and security are included in each plan, with predictable monthly costs. Site plans scale with traffic and functionality, while workspace plans manage multi-site teams. Although the entry cost is higher than some DIY builders, total value improves with scale: one system handles design, CMS, and deployment without extra plugins or hidden maintenance.

Wix

Wix pricing is more tiered and starts with a free plan. Paid options add features such as custom domains, storage, and e-commerce. Upgrades unlock advanced apps and bandwidth. However, total cost often rises as new functionality requires separate subscriptions. Comparing long-term ownership, Webflow tends to offer better overall cost efficiency for businesses seeking a stable, professional platform.

Enterprise Solutions

Webflow

For enterprise clients, Webflow provides dedicated infrastructure, uptime SLAs, and advanced user management. Single Sign-On (SSO), audit logs, and permission controls support governance and security. Enterprise teams can deploy global websites quickly while maintaining brand consistency. With integrated localisation and automation, it scales easily across regions and departments.

Wix

Wix Studio expands Wix for agencies and enterprise-level use. It includes advanced design features, permissions, and AI-powered tools to support higher output. Yet for complex integrations or stringent security requirements, Wix relies on third-party systems. Webflow’s enterprise model offers greater technical flexibility and control for organisations managing multiple sites or brands.

Webflow: Pros & Cons

Pros

Design freedom

Full creative control using a visual editor that produces clean HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Ideal for pixel-perfect responsive design.

Clean, SEO-ready code

Lightweight, semantic code optimised for speed, accessibility, and SEO.

Integrated hosting and security

Managed hosting with SSL, CDN, and automated backups.

All-in-one workflow

Design, CMS, and hosting work seamlessly together.

Built-in SEO tools

Manage meta tags, redirects, and alt text directly in the Designer.

Customisation and scalability

Flexible CMS supports dynamic content and e-commerce.

Extensive learning resources

Webflow University offers tutorials for designers, marketers, and SEO specialists.

Cons

Steeper learning curve

Understanding CSS and responsive breakpoints requires time but leads to better quality builds.

Higher starting cost

Plans include hosting and design tools; long-term savings offset the initial investment.

Smaller app ecosystem

Fewer integrations than Wix but more stable performance.

Limited backend development

Focused on front-end design; complex systems may require APIs.

Wix: Pros & Cons

Pros

Beginner-friendly setup

Easy drag-and-drop editor with guided setup tools.

Extensive template selection

Hundreds of designs for different industries.

AI-powered design tools

Wix ADI generates layouts and colour schemes automatically.

Built-in apps and integrations

Expands functionality with third-party tools.

All-in-one convenience

Hosting, SSL, and maintenance included.

Cons

Limited design flexibility

Restricted layout and animation control compared with Webflow.

Performance limitations

Heavy sites can impact SEO and load speed.

Reduced scalability

Best for small businesses; complex builds are harder to scale.

Limited code access

Customisation beyond templates is restricted.

Basic workflow tools

Less collaboration and version control than Webflow.

Webflow vs. Wix Summary

Both Webflow and Wix make website building more accessible, but they serve different audiences. Wix prioritises simplicity and quick setup for entry-level users, while Webflow offers professional control and scalability for design-led teams.

Webflow combines design flexibility, CMS, and hosting within one platform, producing SEO-friendly, high-performing sites. It’s ideal for businesses needing responsive layouts, dynamic content, and ongoing optimisation without external plugins.

Wix offers a user-friendly setup with AI-powered tools and templates for fast deployment. However, limited code access and performance constraints make it better suited to small businesses than large-scale projects.

When comparing Wix vs Webflow, both deliver results, but Webflow provides the creative control and scalability required for professional website design. Compared with entry-level builders like Squarespace and traditional systems like WordPress, Webflow bridges simplicity and advanced functionality, offering flexibility to scale without losing performance or control.

For teams focused on precision, scalability, and long-term growth, Webflow offers the stronger foundation. Edition helps teams choose the right platform and deliver high-performing websites that balance design, performance, and scalability—let’s talk.