Why I Don’t Recommend the 3 Most Popular Website Builders

The Problem: Most Businesses Choose the Wrong Website Platform

If you’re a small business owner, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Which website builder should I use?” And the internet responded with a loud, enthusiastic: “WordPress! Wix! Squarespace! Pick one and never look back!”

But here’s the thing: for most small and medium-sized businesses, these platforms create more problems than they solve.

They require ongoing maintenance. (Unless you enjoy playing IT technician in your free time.)
They get expensive fast. (That “free” plan? Yeah, that’s adorable.)
They lock you into rigid ecosystems. (Like a bad relationship, but for your business.)

We see it all the time at Green Light Studio—businesses come to us saying, “Why does updating my website feel like defusing a bomb?”

And the answer is usually: the platform itself.

So, if the big three aren’t the best options, what should you use instead?

That’s exactly what we’re getting into. And if you want to hear some wild website horror stories, check out my latest video below.

Why I Don't Recommend WordPress for Most Small Businesses

WordPress Powers 43% of the Web—But at What Cost?

WordPress is like that one friend who’s super talented, but if you invite them to a party, they show up with a manual, a list of plugins, and a warning that things might break.

Not a set-it-and-forget-it platform. If you’re not constantly updating it, things will explode (metaphorically, but still).
It’s “free” but… actually, not. Hosting, themes, plugins, developer fees—it adds up faster than a kid’s birthday party.
Most businesses don’t need this level of complexity. If you just need a solid, easy-to-update site, WordPress is overkill.

When WordPress Is the Right Choice

If your business needs custom eCommerce, membership sites, or deep integrations, WordPress can be great—as long as you’re ready for the maintenance. If not, run!

Why Wix Ends Up Costing More Than You Think

Wix is the “easy” website builder. It’s like a fast-food meal: looks good at first, but you’ll regret it when you need something more substantial.

You’ll outgrow it fast.
Wix is fine for a starter website, but if you need custom SEO tools or advanced analytics, good luck.
“Free” is not free.
Unless you enjoy Wix ads all over your site like an aggressive sponsorship deal, you’ll have to pay up.
Not ideal for long-term SEO.
It has improved, but if ranking on Google is a key strategy for your business, Wix isn’t the best bet.

So What Should You Use Instead?

After 10 years of helping businesses with websites, Duda is my top recommendation for most small and medium-sized businesses.

Why Duda is the Best Alternative to WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace

Fast, Secure, and Low Maintenance
No plugins like Wordpress, no constant updates, no security nightmares. Just a website that works.
Drag-and-Drop Simplicity, Business-Level Features
Duda is as easy as Wix, but with more power—built-in SEO tools, AI features, and actual flexibility.
Affordable Pricing
Starting at $19/month (including hosting), Duda saves you money in the long run.

Scales with Your Business

Unlike Wix and Squarespace, Duda grows with your business. No “Oops, you hit a limit, time to migrate” moments.

Before You Build Your Website, Get This Right

Your website is only one piece of your marketing strategy. Jumping straight into a website build—without clear messaging or a marketing plan—is one of the biggest mistakes businesses make.

Need help making sure your website supports your business goals? Get a free website strategy audit here:https://greenlightstudio.co/#audit
Want to see more website breakdowns and marketing tips? Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@greenlightyourmarketing
Connect with me on LinkedIn for more marketing insights:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-threlkeld-mooney/