Have you ever noticed how some business websites just... work? While others feel like they're fighting with their own platform? After years of working with website builders (and seeing both the wins and the headaches), I've learned that choosing the right platform is primarily about finding the right fit for your business style.
I've watched restaurants struggle with complex builders meant for tech startups. I've seen consultants try to squeeze their services into simple blog templates. And I've helped enough businesses switch platforms to know that getting it right the first time saves a lot of gray hairs.
This guide cuts through the usual marketing fluff. I've worked with each platform here, and I'm focusing on what actually matters when you're running a business website day to day. No theoretical features you'll never use. No vague promises about "scalability" or "optimization."
It comes down to three real questions:
- What does your business actually need right now?
- Which features will matter as you grow?
- What's the true cost of each platform (including the hidden ones)?
By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly which platform fits your business, and more importantly, which ones to avoid.
How I Picked These 7 Best Website Building Sites for Solo Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses
Early in my career, I made the classic mistake of recommending platforms based on what was popular, not what businesses actually needed. It took watching businesses struggle with the wrong tools (and some painful platform migrations) to realize that one size definitely doesn't fit all. Now, after years of working with different industries, I've learned exactly what matters when choosing a website builder.
To help you avoid the same expensive mistakes, I created this list based on real business needs. Here's exactly what I looked for:
I chose platforms that serve different types of businesses - from local shops to online course creators. Some excel at simple business websites, while others can handle complex online stores. The key is matching the right tool to your specific situation.
7 Best Website Builders for Small Businesses: Let's Break It Down
I want you to keep in mind that there's no "perfect" website builder that works for every business. As I mentioned earlier, what's ideal for a restaurant might be completely wrong for an online course creator or membership business. And what works for a local boutique could be overkill for a freelance consultant.
I know all these platforms (and tried them out) and here's what I've learned: it's all about having the right features for your specific business. Some platforms surprised me with their practical solutions, while others fell short despite impressive marketing claims.
Let's examine each option in detail, starting with some powerful WordPress-specific tools that can transform a basic website into exactly what your business needs.
📝 A Quick Note About WordPress Options
I want to explain why I've included several WordPress solutions (Thrive Suite, SeedProd, and MemberPress) alongside standalone platforms in this list. Instead of just telling you "use WordPress" - which I find too vague and unhelpful - I've picked out specific WordPress tools that I know excel at particular tasks.
I think of it this way: WordPress is like a blank canvas, but you need the right brushes to create what you want. For example:
- Thrive Suite for complete marketing and design control
- SeedProd for visual page building
- MemberPress for membership and course features
I've included these specific tools because they solve real problems. I've found this more useful than leaving you to figure out WordPress from scratch.
Throughout this article, I'll help you decide whether a WordPress-based solution or a standalone platform like Wix or Shopify makes more sense for your situation. It really comes down to your comfort level with technology and what you're trying to build.
Thrive Suite at a Glance
Running a WordPress site and want complete control over your marketing and design without hiring developers. I particularly recommend it for bloggers, course creators, and businesses focused on generating leads and sales
Thrive Suite: My Personal Thoughts
I'll be direct: Thrive Suite has completely changed how I think about WordPress websites. Here, you get more than a page builder or theme-building solution to build a nice site. You get a full toolkit that turns your WordPress website into a really solid online business.
The first thing that grabbed my attention was how seamlessly everything works together. No more juggling dozens of plugins for different features. Landing pages, opt-ins, course creation - it's all there in one cohesive system. I especially appreciate how the page builder (Thrive Architect) makes it possible to create professional designs without touching code.
Thrive Suite Plugins
I'm particularly impressed by the conversion focus throughout the platform. Each template and tool is built with a clear purpose: turning visitors into customers.
Landing page template sets in Thrive Architect
The A/B testing features in Thrive Optimize (which comes with Thrive Architect) and Thrive Leads (the lead-generation plugin) have made a real difference in understanding what actually works for lead generation.
What I value most is how it streamlines everything. One-click branding changes across your entire site. Automatic testimonial collection and display if you set up Thrive Ovation. The ability to create dynamic pages or content that adapts to user behavior (you can learn more here). These aren't just fancy features - they're practical tools that save hours of work.
And if you want to take your selling to the next level and offer online courses or membership products, you can do it with Thrive Apprentice.
When I say you get everything you need, you get everything. And this toolkit integrates with popular email marketing and payment platforms, so you're set!
Thrive Suite Pros & Cons
Pros
Points to Consider
ConClusion
If you're serious about online marketing, Thrive Suite can turn your WordPress site into a complete business platform. Yes, there's a learning curve, and you'll need good WordPress hosting. But compared to paying monthly subscriptions for multiple marketing tools, it's an investment that makes sense for growing businesses.
Thrive suite pricing
You get all these tools for $299 in your first year. This allows you to invest in other areas of your business, all while building funnels that drive results. This subscription also comes with access to our customer support team who are ready to help you navigate any challenges you come across.
SeedProd at a Glance
I recommend SeedProd when you want to get your WordPress site up and running without the usual headaches. It's particularly good if you need to launch quickly and start generating leads right away. The templates are conversion-focused (meaning they're built to turn visitors into customers), and you can create pretty much anything without touching a line of code. It won't break the bank either, which is always a plus for small businesses watching their budget.
SeedProd: My Personal Thoughts
When I think of SeedProd, I think, “ease and simplicity” – because that was my first impression when I installed the plugin and gave it a try.
SeedProd is a combination of a theme builder and page builder, and it comes with a large selection of pre-designed templates to help you set up your online platform quickly.
Each template set comes with all the pages you need – a homepage, about page, blog page, and more.
What I appreciate most about this tool is that it makes building and customizing your website super straightforward. You get a Setup Dashboard that has everything you need to get started – no scrambling and trying to figure out how to get started.
My only “gripe” with the platform is that it's quite simple, compared to some of the more robust options on this list. For small-scale bloggers and businesses – this won’t be a problem. But if you want to scale your business and add complex design elements, this might not be the tool for you.
SeedProd Pros & Cons
Pros
Points to Consider
ConClusion
In my experience, SeedProd hits a sweet spot for most small businesses. The limitations aren't usually deal-breakers unless you're planning something really complex. I've found the learning curve is more like a gentle slope - you can start simple and explore more features as you grow comfortable.
Remember: The free version is fine for testing the waters, but don't expect to build a full business website with it. Think of it as a test drive before committing to a paid plan.
SeedProd pricing
SeedProd does have a free version, but you'll need to pay for the premium plugin to access advanced features.
You have four pricing plans to choose from:
Basic: Starts from $31.60 per year
Plus: Starts from $79.60 per year
Pro: Starts from $159.60 per year
Elite: Starts from $239.60 per year
Wix at a Glance
Unlike WordPress tools that require hosting and setup, Wix handles all the technical stuff behind the scenes. Which is a big plus if you don't want to deal with the hassle. The AI assistant is surprisingly smart - it doesn't just swap colors and fonts but actually understands different business types and their needs. But if you have plans of moving away from Wix in the future, this process will end up being stressful.
Wix: My Personal Thoughts
Wix is one of the biggest names in the website building space, mainly attracting small businesses that want to avoid anything technical.
When I tried Wix myself, I quickly understood why so many business owners gravitate toward it.
They handle everything – hosting, security, templates, business tools, and more. All you need to do is answer a few questions about your business, and their AI builder starts crafting a site that matches your needs.
If you're a small business owner who wants to focus on running your business (rather than becoming a part-time web developer), then this could be exactly what you're looking for.
However, if you're planning to build a complex business platform – you might want to look elsewhere. While Wix offers plenty of features, you can't transfer your site to another platform if your needs outgrow it. You're essentially locked into their ecosystem.
The design system has its quirks too. While you can move elements anywhere on the page (which sounds great), this freedom can sometimes lead to inconsistent layouts across different devices. I've seen this cause headaches for some business owners.
Wix Pros & Cons
Pros
Points to Consider
ConClusion
From my work with small businesses, I've found Wix shines when you need a professional site without the technical overhead. While it's not the cheapest option, you're paying for convenience and reliability. But if you have plans to grow your business or add complex features in the long run, this won't be the best tool for you.
Wix pricing
Wix pricing starts from $17/month, and you have four paid plans to choose from.
MemberPress at a Glance
In my experience, MemberPress stands out when you're ready to monetize your knowledge. Unlike basic website builders, this tool lets you create a real premium experience for your members. What I appreciate most is how it handles all the tricky stuff - like protecting content and processing payments - while letting you focus on creating value for your members. You don't need to piece together different solutions; it's all there in one package. While there's a bit of a learning curve, it's worth it if you're serious about building a membership business.
MemberPress: My Personal Thoughts
've found MemberPress to be a reliable choice for WordPress-based membership sites. Let me share what I've learned from using it.
First, let's be clear: MemberPress isn't trying to be everything for everyone. It's a WordPress plugin that does one thing really well - turning your website into a membership platform. Think of it as adding a VIP section to your existing WordPress site.
What I really appreciate about MemberPress is how it handles the "members-only" aspect of your business. Want to release your course content week by week? Done. Need different pricing tiers like Bronze, Silver, and Gold memberships? Easy. I've seen this work particularly well for online courses, coaching programs, and digital content libraries.
The payment side is refreshingly straightforward too. Connect your payment processor, set your prices, and you're ready to start selling. Though I should mention - if you're looking for fancy marketing automation, you might need to add some extra tools to your stack.
When it comes to design, MemberPress keeps things simple. The course pages are functional rather than flashy, and you'll rely mostly on your WordPress theme for the overall look. While platforms like Kajabi or Teachable might offer more polished designs out of the box, MemberPress focuses more on functionality.
A word about the learning curve - while it's not rocket science, you'll want to set aside a weekend to really get comfortable with how everything works. But once you get the hang of it, managing your membership site becomes pretty routine.
MemberPress Pros & Cons
Pros
Points to Consider
ConClusion
If you're already using WordPress and want to add serious membership capabilities without switching platforms, MemberPress makes a lot of sense. It's a solid choice for content-focused businesses who value functionality over fancy features.
MemberPress pricing
MemberPress has three paid plans:
Basic: Starts from $179.50 per year
Plus: Starts from $239.60 per year
Pro: Starts from $799 per year
Squarespace at a Glance
After working with many platforms, I've found Squarespace hits different when it comes to design quality. While other builders give you freedom to move everything around, Squarespace keeps you within "beautiful guardrails" - meaning it's almost impossible to make an ugly website. Yes, this means less flexibility than some other options, but the tradeoff is worth it if you want a site that looks expensive without hiring a designer.
Squarespace: My Personal Thoughts
I'm consistently impressed by how Squarespace makes everything look professional right from the start.
From the moment you begin, you notice the attention to detail. Even if you're not particularly tech-savvy, you can create something that looks like it was professionally designed. The templates understand what modern businesses need, and all the essential features (booking systems, online stores, email campaigns) work smoothly without requiring multiple add-ons or complex integrations.
But here's the thing - Squarespace can sometimes feel a bit restrictive. While it's excellent at creating polished, professional sites, it can be frustrating when you want to get creative. I've had clients ask for specific layout tweaks, and I've had to tell them it simply isn't possible within Squarespace's framework.
In terms of costs there's no free plan, so you're investing from day one. Yes, there's a 14-day trial to test things out, but after that, you'll need to commit.
Is it expensive? It's not the priciest option out there, but it's not the cheapest either. You're paying for quality design and reliable features - all in one package.
Squarespace Pros & Cons
Pros
Points to Consider
ConClusion
Squarespace knows exactly what it is - a platform for businesses that want to look professional without the technical overhead. It's particularly strong for service-based businesses, restaurants, and creative professionals who need their website to reflect their brand quality.
However, if you need complex business features or want complete control over every pixel, you might want to look at more flexible options like WordPress with specific business tools.
Squarespace pricing
Pricing starts from $25/month, and you have four paid plans to choose from.
Hostinger Website Builder at a Glance
I've found Hostinger's builder to be a pleasant surprise in the budget-friendly space. While it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of pricier options, it nails the basics really well. What stands out is how they've managed to include AI tools (like content generation and SEO suggestions) at this price point. Yes, you might outgrow it if you need advanced features later, but for getting started or running a simple business site, it's hard to beat the value. The included hosting and domain make it a true all-in-one package that won't strain your startup budget.
Hostinger Website Builder: Personal Thoughts
I recently explored Hostinger's Website Builder, and it's been a welcome surprise. The AI-powered site creation actually makes sense - you can get a basic site running in minutes, not hours.
The first thing that caught my attention was the pricing. In a world where website costs can quickly spiral, Hostinger keeps things refreshingly affordable. You get a professional-looking site, hosting, and even a free domain in most plans without the usual sticker shock.
I'll be upfront about the templates - there aren't as many as you might find with other builders. But honestly? The ones they have are modern and practical. The drag-and-drop editor is straightforward, and their smart layout system helps prevent those awkward design mistakes that can make a site look unprofessional.
The AI tools for SEO and content are particularly useful. Instead of staring at a blank page wondering what to write for your "About" section, the AI helps draft content that you can then personalize. The SEO suggestions are practical too - no complicated jargon, just clear tips to help your site rank better.
It's not perfect though. You might find yourself wanting more integrations with external tools. And while it's user-friendly, you'll still need to spend some time getting familiar with all the features.
Hostinger Website Builder Pros & Cons
Pros
Points to Consider
ConClusion
Hostinger Website Builder hits a sweet spot between affordability and functionality. While it may not have every feature under the sun, it offers everything most small businesses need to create a professional online presence. If you're looking for a cost-effective way to get online without compromising on quality, this is worth considering.
Hostinger Website Builder
Hostinger has a variety of paid plans, starting from $2.99 per month (billed annually)
Shopify at a Glance
While many platforms offer ecommerce "features," I've found Shopify to be in a different league when it comes to serious selling. What sets it apart is how it thinks through all the real-world retail scenarios - from inventory tracking to handling returns. Yes, it costs more than basic website builders, but it pays for itself in time saved and fewer headaches. It's like having a retail expert on your team who's already thought through all the details. The platform grows with you too - from your first sale to your first million.
Shopify: Personal Review
I've found Shopify stands out by truly understanding what selling online involves. While other platforms treat ecommerce as an add-on feature, Shopify builds everything around it.
The platform's strength lies in how it handles real-world selling. The backend makes practical sense - everything from inventory to shipping labels feels properly thought out. The templates understand retail, with features like product galleries and shopping carts that actually work the way they should.
What I particularly appreciate is how Shopify grows with your business. Starting small? The basic features have you covered. Experiencing rapid growth? The platform keeps up, handling everything from social media sales to multiple locations without missing a beat.
Let's talk about costs, though. Yes, there are monthly fees. You'll likely need some paid apps, and there are transaction fees unless you use Shopify Payments. It's an investment, but you're paying for a platform that's specifically designed to help you sell effectively.
Shopify Pros & Cons
Pros
Points to Consider
ConClusion
Shopify makes sense when you want to focus on selling rather than managing website technicalities. Just be prepared for the real costs involved and understand that some customization might require technical help.
Shopify pricing
Shopify has a variety of paid plans, starting from $19 per month
What's My Recommendation for Best Website Building Site?
After exploring all these platforms, Thrive Suite comes out as my top recommendation - especially if you're using WordPress. Here's why:
First, it solves a real problem I see businesses face: the endless cycle of paying for multiple marketing tools that don't quite work together. With Thrive Suite, you get everything you need to create, market, and grow your business website in one place.
What really stands out is how it approaches website building from a business perspective. It's not just about making things look good (though it does that well). Every feature - from the landing page templates to the opt-in forms - is designed to help you convert visitors into customers.
Pricing Table templates in Thrive Architect
Best of all, instead of paying monthly subscriptions for separate tools like landing page builders, A/B testing software, and course platforms, you get everything in one annual license (and for a steal at that).
Yes, there's a minor learning curve, and you'll need WordPress hosting. But the included training (Thrive University, docs, blog, YouTube channel and support) helps you master each tool at your own pace. For businesses serious about online marketing and growth, I've found this investment pays for itself many times over.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Website Builder
Choosing a website builder isn't just about what works today - it's about finding a platform that will support your business growth tomorrow. While each option we've covered has its strengths, your choice should align with your specific business needs.
Here's a quick recap of who each platform serves best:
- Thrive Suite: For WordPress users who want a complete marketing system without monthly fees
- SeedProd: For WordPress users needing quick, professional landing pages
- Wix: For businesses wanting an all-in-one solution without technical hassles
- MemberPress: For creating membership sites and online courses
- Squarespace: For design-conscious businesses prioritizing visual impact
- Hostinger Website Builder: For budget-conscious businesses needing a simple, effective site
- Shopify: For businesses focused on selling products online
And remember: There's no "perfect" platform for everyone. But there is a right platform for your specific situation. Think about where your business needs to be in a year or two, not just what seems easiest today.
If you're serious about online marketing and already using WordPress (or willing to learn), I recommend starting with Thrive Suite. It gives you the marketing tools to grow without the ongoing costs of multiple subscriptions.
The most important thing is to make a choice and get started. While you can change platforms later, choosing the right one now saves significant time and money. Consider your budget, technical comfort level, and business goals - then take action.
Which platform aligns best with your business vision?
