SiteLaunch vs WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix

When it comes to building your business website, you have more options than ever before. WordPress powers 43% of all websites, while platforms like Squarespace and Wix have made website building accessible to millions. But are these one-size-fits-all solutions really the best choice for your business?

When we analyze the solutions local businesses are using in today's market, we see the same problems repeatedly: slow loading times, limited customization, and platforms that hold your business hostage. Here's why a custom-built website might be the better choice for your business.

The Speed Problem: Why Your Current Site Is Losing Customers

The harsh reality: 53% of mobile users abandon sites that take longer than 3 seconds to load. Yet most WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix sites struggle to achieve even basic performance standards.

WordPress: The Plugin Problem

WordPress sites often become bloated with plugins, themes, and unnecessary code. A typical WordPress site loads 50+ HTTP requests and weighs over 2MB. Even with optimization plugins, you're fighting against the platform's inherent complexity.

Squarespace & Wix: The "One Size Fits None" Approach

These platforms prioritize ease of use over performance. Your site gets bundled with features you don't need, resulting in:

• Heavy JavaScript frameworks
• Unoptimized images
• Bloated CSS files
• Limited caching options

The result? Your potential customers are leaving before they even see your content.

Custom Websites: Built for Your Business, Not Everyone Else's

When we build a custom website, we start with your specific needs.

⚡ Lightning-Fast Performance

• Guaranteed 95+ Lighthouse Score (most WordPress sites score 60–70)
• Sub-2 second load times on mobile and desktop
• Optimized for your content – no unnecessary bloat

🎨 True Customization

Unlike template-based platforms, custom websites are designed specifically for your business:

• Unique design that reflects your brand
• Custom functionality that serves your customers
• No template limitations or "upgrade" walls

🧑‍💼 Professional Results

• Modern, clean design that builds trust
• Mobile-first approach that works on every device
• SEO-optimized from the ground up

The Hidden Costs of “Free” Platforms

WordPress: The Maintenance Nightmare

• Security updates required monthly (or risk being hacked)
• Plugin compatibility issues that break your site
• Hosting costs that add up over time
• Developer fees for every small change

Squarespace & Wix: The Upgrade Trap

• Limited features on basic plans
• Expensive upgrades for functionality you need
• No ownership of your website
• Difficult to migrate if you want to leave

The Real Cost of "Free"

A typical WordPress site costs $200–500 annually in hosting, plugins, and maintenance.
Squarespace business plans start at $23/month.
Wix business plans cost $17–35/month.

Our custom websites? One-time investment, no monthly fees, and you own everything.

When Custom Websites Make Sense

Perfect for Local Service Businesses

• Restaurants needing fast online ordering
• Salons requiring appointment booking
• Contractors showcasing their work
• Professional services building credibility

Ideal for Businesses That Want to Grow

• Unique branding that stands out from competitors
• Scalable solutions that grow with your business
• Professional appearance that builds trust
• SEO advantages that attract more customers

The SiteLaunch Advantage

We don't just build websites – we build business growth tools.

✅ Modern Technology Stack

• Next.js for lightning-fast performance
• Tailwind CSS for beautiful, responsive design
• Optimized for search engines and user experience

✅ Complete Package

• 5 professionally designed pages
• Mobile-responsive across all devices
• Contact forms that actually work
• Basic SEO setup included

✅ Guaranteed Results

• 95+ Lighthouse Score or we fix it
• 2-week delivery with fixed timeline
• No ongoing fees or maintenance headaches

✅ Your Business, Your Way

• Custom design that reflects your brand
• Content that speaks to your customers
• Functionality that serves your specific needs

The Bottom Line

While WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix work for some businesses, they often create more problems than they solve. Slow loading times, limited customization, and ongoing costs can hold your business back.

A custom website built specifically for your business gives you:

• Speed that converts visitors into customers
• Design that builds trust and credibility
• Functionality that serves your specific needs
• Ownership of your digital presence

Ready to see the difference a custom website can make for your business?

Contact us today!